Free swimming lessons commence with “sold out” sessions

The free swimming lessons program offered by Gold Medal Swim School and Maricopa’s Parks and Rec department commenced Saturday at the Villages at Rancho El Dorado community pool (see related story).

The lessons were initially scheduled for Rotary Pool, but the seasonal pool was not ready in time for this weekend’s lessons. Upon arriving at the temporary host pool, the Gold Medal team discovered the pool had been vandalized the night before. Lead instructor Edward Goldstein and crew removed furniture from the pool and scurried to clean the area minutes before the first lesson.

The Villages at Rancho El Dorado donated use of one of its pools this weekend.

Despite the exciting start, the lesson program was very well received. Gold Medal instructors taught 48 free lessons and have another full schedule of 48 scheduled for Sunday. In lieu of payment, Gold Medal collected canned food benefiting Rotarty Club charities.

The Pitaro family, who moved to Rancho El Dorado two years ago from Chandler, was the recipient of two of Saturday’s 48 lessons. Six year-old J.T. and his four year-old sister, Katerina, were both eager participants. “I think it’s great,” the children’s mom, Cyndi exclaimed. “I hope to get J.T. on the swim team.”

For more information about summer swimming lessons, contact Gold Medal Swim School at (866) 610-SWIM (7946).

J.T. and Katerina Pitaro with lead instructor Edward Goldstein.


Who needs shades? A Maricopa youngster learns to float on her back in comfort.


J.T. Pitaro honing his kicking skills with guidance from Goldstein.