The Viking Hall Pool was filled with excited swimmers from across the region on Friday, March 6, as Tennessee High hosted the 10th Annual Adaptive Aquatics swim meet.
More than 170 elementary, middle, and high school athletes with physical and/or cognitive disabilities from the Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia participated. Students from BTCS, Sullivan County Schools, and Washington County Public Schools competed in events, including: 25-meter freestyle, 25-meter backstroke, and a biggest splash competition.
"This is probably my favorite event of the year," said Brad Stubbs, special education teacher at Tennessee High and one of the organizers of the event. "It's a time when our students who may not typically have the opportunity to swim can be in the pool and feel they've achieved their very best. It also gives other students at our school the opportunity to work closely with our students with special needs and experience the tremendous joy that comes from seeing them be successful."
The 10th annual event was dedicated in memory of Dr. Dixie Bowen, longtime BTCS supervisor of student services, who passed away in January. During her career as a teacher, principal, and administrator, Dr. Bowen was a tireless advocate for all students in Bristol and especially those with special needs. The Adaptive Aquatics event and the students it serves were her true passion.
This event is a collaborative effort among many organizations and groups within the Bristol and Tennessee High School community. Sponsors were Mellow Mushroom, H. Johnson Pharmacy, Quaker Steak and Lube, Food City, and the Tennessee High School Athletic Department. The sponsors provide medals for each participant and lunch for all the athletes, teachers, and volunteers.