Brock Gvozdanovic is 13 years old. Brock has been swimming recreationally for a number of years. In the last two or three years, Brock and his father have been working together to see if Brock is interested in swimming competitively. Oh, and Brock has autism.
Brock’s father, Bill, has worked hard to organize swim coaching for Brock and other children and youth with needs at our local City pool, the Archie Dillon Sportsplex. Youth with special needs have had access to dedicated lessons where they can learn to swim and then work on their techniques and skills. Brock is one of a few youth who have also joined the Timmins Marlins Swim Team, by being part of the Marlins’ “Future Olympians” swim program. The staff at the Archie Dillon Sportsplex Pool have really risen to the task of tailoring programs for kids with special needs.
The Cochrane Temiskaming Respite Network has assisted young swimmers in Timmins by sponsoring various “Learn to Swim” and Future Olympian efforts through the Children’s Community Group Activity Participation Fund (CGAP).
Brock is trained by his father Bill three times per week.....by the way, Bill cannot swim. J Every training session, Brock swims about 20 laps which he completes in 20 minutes.
[caption id="attachment_32888" align="alignleft" width="448"]
Bill Gvozdanovic, Brock Gvozdanovic, Mayor Laughren[/caption]
In November 2013, Brock participated in a competitive swim meet with his peers. Brock’s swims were FANTASTIC! He shaved 27 seconds off his 50m backstroke time, compared to last year. The crowd recognized what a wonderful accomplishment it was for Brock to participate in and to complete competitive races and the cheers were deafening! His team-mates and their families, along with race officials were overwhelmed by Brock’s efforts.
Brock plans to continue training to improve his times and to eventually participate in Special Olympics races. He also wants his Dad to learn how to swim.
Bill wants to encourage parents who have children with autism or other special needs to get their kids in the water! The health benefits are amazing. The opportunities to make friends and identify opportunities for success are priceless.
Brock’s training, perseverance and participation are a wonderful example of the success children and youth with autism can achieve with appropriate support. Brock is supported by his family (Mom, Dad and older brother Parker!), the Timmins Marlins Swim Club (including the Future Olympians program), and the City of Timmins Archie Dillon Sportsplex Pool staff.
Way to go Brock!
