The Dr. Robert W. Browne Aquatic Center is making waves in the community, reporting increased usage and exciting new opportunities for swimmers of all ages. Visits to the center have increased by over 2,000 swimmers compared to this time in 2024, marking a 10% increase in pool use.
“We’re thrilled to see such strong growth in participation,” said Paul Flynn, Coldwater Community Schools Superintendent. “With the financial commitment from the Coldwater Community Schools, Browne Family, City of Coldwater, and Branch County, the pool finances are now stabilized for the next five years. The current agreements make the pool a win for the community and the school system as a resource, classroom, and competition pool.”
Expanded Programs and Strong Attendance
The center offered a robust schedule of aquatic programming this summer for $5 per person, including nine weekly water fitness classes, a week-long learn-to-swim camp, and three-week, twice-a-week learn-to-swim courses. These offerings attracted 72 participants in swim classes this summer, introducing more community members to the Center.
All fitness classes were new to the center this year except for AquaFit, which continues to be a staple on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings.
Barracudas Swim Club Brings State Games Back to Coldwater
After a 2024 cancellation due to lack of a host, the Meijer State Games of Michigan was hosted by Coldwater for the first time thanks to the leadership of the Barracudas Swim Club. The State Games of Michigan, the signature event of the West Michigan Sports Commission, is part of the National Congress of State Games, which connects athletes across 28 state programs nationwide.
The Barracudas hosted 63 athletes from three states at the Browne Aquatic Center this summer, earning a total of 202 medals and qualifying athletes for the State Games of America, to be held in State College, PA, in 2026. Participants ranged in age from 6 to 75, with the event drawing over 100 spectators and volunteers. The Barracudas, six-time large team champions in the Winter State Games Postal Swim Meet, plan to defend their title again in 2026.
Additional Highlights
Starting in January, the cost per person was standardized to $5 per visit for City and County residents, as well as visitors to the community. Monthly passes are $20 per person and $15 for those under 18 years old. Monthly family pass, up to 5 people, is $40, and can be auto-drafted.
An advisory community committee was created with representatives from Coldwater Community Schools, City of Coldwater, County of Branch, Coldwater Recreation, Hampton Aquatics, and 2nd Story Marketing, led by community liaison Erik Sabaitis.
205 visitors used the facility during PALM (Pedal Across Lower Michigan).
Hampton Aquatics supported the center by purchasing passes for Tibbits Summer Theatre actors and donating water fitness passes to all teachers in the Coldwater Community School District.
In addition, Hampton Aquatics established consistent hours of operation for the Aquatics Center and effective September 2 will resume fall hours Monday-Friday 6 AM-7 PM, Saturday 9 AM - 1 PM, and Sunday 1-5 PM.
The center will be launching RecDesk, an online registration system, in the coming months
While the Aquatic Center has not received major donations this year, continued partnerships and sponsorships are welcome to ensure programs remain accessible and sustainable for the community. The Aquatic Center is financially supported by the Dr. Robert W. Browne Trust, Coldwater Community Schools, City of Coldwater, and the County of Branch.
For more information on programs, schedules, and upcoming events at the Dr. Robert W. Browne Aquatic Center, visit https://www.coldwaterschools.org/page/aquatic-center