Published: August 2023

NSC Debates the Ongoing Relevance of the 50m Olympic Pool

An excellent debate was held at the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) on the ongoing relevance of the 50m pool facilitated by our CEO Justin Scarr.

Arguing in favour of the 50m pool, Joanne Love, President of Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia, provided a passionate discussion about the inspiration provided by Olympic athletes to young swimmers and reinforced the importance of equitable access to training facilities for young athletes.

Nadine Kemp Regional Executive Manager from the Y Victoria argued that 50m pools can be more versatile than other pools if they embrace technology enhancements such as submersible swim walls and moveable floors.

Arguing in favour of alternative bodies of water (leisure, program, 25m, water parks): Todd McHardy, CEO of BlueFit, argued that 50m pools are energy intensive, can be more expensive to staff and are for the most part under-utilised, especially in reference to their footprint.

Simon Bryson, General Manager – Operations at Aligned Leisure, argued that more diverse water spaces such as warm water pools and learn to swim pools allow a more diverse user base to participate in aquatic activities. Simon also argued that 50m pools are generally deeper, contributing to fear and/or safety concerns, and that a more progressive approach to provision would include a gradual journey through different water bodies based on life stage.

RLSSA was pleased to be a collaborative partner to the NSC 2023.