History
Friends of Rockbridge Swimming, Inc. (FOR Swimming) was formed in 2004 by a group of individuals interested in fulfilling the vision of having public access to a year round pool become a reality in Rockbridge County, Virginia. Thus this non-profit organization was formed to foster charitable causes and provide support, educational opportunities, and benefits for youth, high school, and adult swim teams, as well as fitness and therapy swimming for all Rockbridge County citizens. The founding Board of Directors included David Copeland, President, Kathleen Haugen, Vice President, Kathy Gilbert, Treasurer, Ruth Kitchen, Secretary, and additional board members Leslie Ayers, Beedle Hinely, Florinda Ruiz, Julie Tisone, Shelley Undercoffer, and Albert Vargas.
After two years of intensive fundraising and navigating the myriad levels of city and county government approval, we broke ground in June 2006 and were swimming a year later. The project included the construction of a 25-yard pool and installation of an Asati fabric dome. The dome is highly translucent and requires no lighting during daytime hours with an added thermaliner which reduces heating costs. A chair lift was installed to help the physically challenged have easy access in and out of the water. In addition, an adjacent pool house was built inclusive of locker rooms, showers, office, team room, pump room and storage for pool and swimming equipment which was funded by FOR Swimming’s “Raise the Roof Campaign” supported by donations from individuals, families, and businesses.
This entire project was successfully managed by John Gunner of Gunner Construction, Lexington, who donated his talent, labor, and financial support to help make this vision into a reality. Spencer’s Home Center, Lexington, was also an integral contributor.