Swim Across America Launches College Cup, College Ambassador Program
Swim Across America this week announced two new programs to support its mission of raising funds and awareness for cancer research. SAA is launching the Swim Across America College Cup as well as a College Ambassador Program.
The SAA College Cup will run through Dec. 1, with college or college-affiliated teams engaging in a fundraising campaign. Entities can sign up as a group for one of SAA’s 24 open water events across the country, start or join a pool swim event or participate virtually through the SAA My Way program. Team can consist of current students and/or alumni.
More than 30 teams and 1,000 participants are enrolled in the inaugural campaign. Teams can sign up here.
“One of the exciting aspects of the Swim Across America College Cup program is that it offers a new way for alumni to stay engaged with their college swim teams,” John O’Neill, head coach of the Providence College men’s and women’s swimming and diving programs, said in an SAA press release. “It allows them to lead the next generation of athletes in the swimming world and instill a philanthropic mindset.”
Funds raised will support cancer research in the communities of registered teams, or they can be directed toward SAA’s national pediatric cancer research fund. As part of SAA’s partnership with the College Swimming Coaches Association of America, the CSCAA will recognize the top College Cup fundraiser. Through SAA’s partnership with Vasa, two College Cup teams (including the top fundraiser) will be awarded a VASA Swim Ergometer.
“We are thrilled to rejuvenate the partnership between Swim Across America and the CSCAA,” said Samantha Barany, executive director of the CSCAA. “The philanthropic efforts of Swim Across America are impressive and impact nearly everyone in some way with the fight against cancer. The open water events hosted by Swim Across America are an excellent opportunity for our college teams and athletes to engage in charitable endeavors within a familiar and loved environment – the water. We will continue to find more ways to collaborate and I believe this is just the beginning!”
The SAA College Ambassadors program brings those efforts to the small scale. Ambassadors lead efforts on their campuses to raise money and awareness among their peers and the community.
SAA solicited application for the College Ambassador program earlier this year and have selected 21 students for its inaugural class from institutions across the country. Many ambassadors also serve as captains for teams participating in the College Cup.
More information about the College Ambassador program is available here.