Makos Learn More Than Just Swimming

The Maplewood Makos swim team might not be winning every match — so far the team boasts a 3-4 record — but they are having a terrific summer all the same.

"It's all about the team spirit and the pool community for these kids," said Jennifer Coleman, mother to team members Grant Thieroff, 13, and Gillian Thieroff, 11. "All one has to do is attend a swim meet or early morning practice to witness that winning attitude." 

Coach Carly Orpurt Buckholtz and her crew of assistant coaches do a amazing job of sharing their love of swimming and good sportsmanship with the children, according to Coleman.
"These coaches work on more than improving swim technique," Buckholtz said. "They set an example for the team of the importance of giving back to our community." 

As part of giving back, the team is spearheading two community fundraising initiatives this summer.
Friday, the team will hold its annual Makos Swim-A-Thon. This year, proceeds from the event will benefit  an initiative that has been helping to raise money for the Angelos, . Makos team members aged 6-18 will participate.  

To make a donation to event, click here.

In addition, the team has been collecting food for "Swim for Food," a program that provides non-perishable food and personal care items to the Blessed Sacrament Church Food Pantry in Newark.

The team already has collected 863 lbs. of food and items for donation at their four home meets this year, and is on its way toward beating last summer's record of 896 pounds.

"We are hoping to break the 1,000-lb. mark," said Coleman, who explained The North Jersey Summer Swim League set a goal of raising a total of 5,000 lbs. for Swim for Food this season and the Makos hope to collect almost 20 percent of that goal.

If you would like to donate to Swim for Food, please drop your donation at the front desk at the Maplewood Pool, and ask that they place items in the containers that are kept in the manager's office.