VICTORY PARK – De La Salle Holy Cross College had a groundbreaking ceremony for the Gavan Ryan Aquatic Centre on 1 February.
The idea for the swimming pool was made possible by a donation from Gavan Ryan, who was once a learner at the college. The parents committee, alumni committee and learners were all involved in the fundraising for the building of the pool. Before this, the college used to use the Linden public swimming pool. College Principal Debbie Harris said, “We are very excited to have our first swimming pool, the De La Salle Holy Cross College have been here for 50 years and it has been something we’ve always wanted to do.”
A lot of research and work has been put into the swimming pool project. The length is estimated to be 25 metres and 10 lanes. This will be suitable for teaching young learners as well as the more advanced swimmers and will also be suitable for fun leisure activities at the college.
Harris said, “We never wanted to put a strain on our parents in terms of school fees so we had to wait until a benefactor came along. For us, it is an incredible day and we are so grateful to Gavan Ryan and also to our community who have raised over R800 000. Our benefactor wanted to see that there was a commitment by the De La Salle Holy Cross community.”
The swimming pool will also serve the wider community – it will be offered during school holidays to schools that do not have their own pools. “Also, members of our community around us here who weren’t given the opportunity as young people to learn to swim and for life-saving courses [will be able to use it],” said Harris.
The college expects the swimming pool to be completed in October this year. Harris joked, “I will dive in and do the first length, that will be a sight to behold!”
Related article:
100 percent matric pass rate at De La Salle Holy Cross College
