FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
The tense silence in the pool house breaks as swimmers dive in to claim first for the freestyle swim, family members cheering them on.
This is one of many races held during The Greater Peninsula Swimming Association and Virginia Peninsula Swimming Union championship swim meets at the Fort Eustis, Va., aquatic center.
For the past three decades, Fort Eustis has hosted these swim meets in support of the community's swim clubs. Combined, the GPSA and VPSU swim meet championships bring roughly 1,000 swimmers, plus their families, to the aquatic center.
Amanda Cull, 733rd Force Support Division aquatic center manager, has been a part of the event for many years, and enjoys working with the community.
"From around 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., I'm running around making sure everyone is safe and the meets are progressing as scheduled," said Cull. "It is a very exciting event and I look forward to it every year."
Cull has every reason to be excited - these championships are the largest events held at the aquatic center each year, and it is a great opportunity to work with the community and strengthen relationships between Fort Eustis and the entire Hampton Roads area.
Lori Sprott, GPSA city meet director, organized the event with Cull, and appreciates what Fort Eustis has to offer to the swimmers and their families.
"The facilities here at Fort Eustis are ideal for this kind of event," said Sprott. "With so much deck space and room outside for the families, swimmers and families don't have to worry about missing a race or not being able to see the action."
The aquatic center's balcony and sideline bleachers allow audience members a full view of the action without interfering with swim meet officials. Additionally, the grassy area behind the center allows participants room to set up pavilions for use in between races, instead of having the entire league fill up the center itself.
Keith Morrow, 733rd Mission Support Group deputy commander and father of four swimmers, attended the event and praised the aquatic center for its capabilities and accessibility.
"This pool is one of very few that can handle such a large amount of swimmers," said Morrow. "Additionally, it is a great way to show the community what the Army has to offer and how willing the installation is to support their activities."
With the aquatic center's accessibility to the community, spacious decks, balconies and the installation's assistance, it is no wonder that Cull, Morrow and Sprott all look forward to diving into next year's championships.