LVC Swimming Teams Teach Lessons to Next Generation of Student-Athletes
Annville, PA (01/30/2026) — If you walk by the Arnold Sports Center's pool on a winter weeknight, you will find over 100 children taking lessons from Lebanon Valley College swim team members.
Mary Gardner, Head Coach of LVC's Men's and Women's Swimming teams, and her husband, Assistant Coach Jim Gardner, have instructed competitive swimming lessons at the College for over 35 years. Each semester, multiple LVC swimmers assist with the learn-to-swim classes and competitive swim clinics for kids ages three to 18.
"I am shocked by how much they enjoy teaching the lessons," Mary Gardner said. "They find time during their busy schedules to do it. Some of the student-athletes who teach are Education and Physical Therapy majors, so their experiences are enhanced because it's a chance for them to grow in the field of social connectivity."
Eight former LVC swimmers who taught these lessons when they attended the College now have their children enrolled in the classes. During the winter, approximately 170 swimmers attend the weekly lessons.
Natalie Bourne '26, D'28 is in her third year teaching competitive swimming classes at LVC. The senior first became involved after hearing about the experience from older teammates. She saw it as an opportunity to help younger swimmers develop their skills.
"It has been a really positive and fulfilling experience," said Bourne, a Physical Therapy major. "I learned a lot about communication, patience, and how to adjust my coaching style for each swimmer. It is also a nice change of pace from competitive training. Seeing the kids' love and energy reminds me why I love the sport."
Junior Brianna Ashman '27, D'29, also a Physical Therapy major, has taught lessons at the Arnold Sports Center for two years. She asked Mary Gardner about a lifeguard job, who instead asked if Ashman wanted to teach.
"I enjoy teaching swim lessons to help kids improve their swimming skills, and to help myself build as a person and grow relationships with those whom I coach," Ashman said.
Former Lebanon Valley College women's swimmer Rachel King '24, D'26 is in her fourth year teaching these lessons as she works to complete her doctorate in Physical Therapy. King said this experience has inspired her to continue coaching.
"It has been amazing watching my athletes improve their skills and create great friendships," King said. "I want to continue to be involved in youth athletics, whether officiating, assisting with coaching, or timing swim meets."
Stay Connected Be sure to follow @lvcathletics on Instagram, X, and Facebook for the most in-depth coverage of LVC Athletics.
Lebanon Valley College, founded in 1866, offers 50 majors in the health professions, sciences, education, business and digital media, and the arts and humanities. Hands-on learning, internships, and research are emphasized. LVC offers five direct-entry (bachelor's to master's) programs to streamline graduates' entry into Valley graduate programs in business and the health professions.
Close faculty-student relationships and mentoring are hallmarks of the LVC experience on its beautiful 370-acre campus. The College encourages student participation in athletics-with 40% competing as NCAA Division III student-athletes in the Middle Atlantic Conference-and student leadership and involvement in over 90 clubs and organizations. LVC offers generous financial aid and guaranteed merit scholarships that exceed $50 million annually, with 100% of students receiving LVC financial aid or scholarships most years. Career success is integrated into the curriculum through the Edward and Lynn Breen Center for Career and Professional Development, starting during the first year on campus.
Eight miles from Hershey, Pennsylvania, this college of 1,600 undergraduate and over 400 graduate students produces alumni who attend prestigious graduate and professional schools and are employed by top companies and school districts.
Media Attachments
