Let’s save a positive program for kids

I am writing in objection to the proposed parks and recreation budget cuts, specifically, the cutting of the Sharks swim team. I began swimming competitively with the Everett Parks Sharks when I was seven years old. The Sharks was a huge part of my life. The team provided an atmosphere of fun and family. Swimming competitively on a team like the Sharks helps to teach discipline, self-motivation and a goal-oriented way of thinking. These qualities and attitudes are naturally applied to many other aspects of life, particularly school and work. It becomes second nature to try your best and work towards a goal. The Sharks certainly did all of that for me.

I am still swimming 10 years later. Those qualities mentioned above have carried me through life, particularly school. That discipline and self-motivation has translated into good grades, advanced classes and considerable amounts of volunteer work within the community. As a result I am currently choosing between two prestigious, private liberal arts colleges, both of which have offered me substantial scholarships. I will also be swimming at whichever school I choose. The Sharks played a considerable role in getting me to where I am today. It makes me incredibly sad to think that other kids will not be able to receive the wonderful opportunities that I have. We need positive programs for kids that families can afford. I strongly feel that to cancel the program would be a great detriment to this community.

Everett