Valley Stream swimmers gear up for pool show

Get ready Valley Streamers for an adrenaline rush! The summer is kicking into high gear at the Hendrickson Park pool with the annual Aquatic Club Water Show this Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

This year’s theme, “A Splash Through Time,” is a throwback to those bygone days of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, mixed with some of today’s musical stylings dedicated to the pool’s 50th anniversary.

Picture this: A triumphant crowd of 300 to 400 people packed around the pool watching club swimmers doing synchronized dance steps in the water with music playing in the background. This previous scene was of last year’s show, according to Recreation Director Tom Roberts. And this year promises to build on the spirit of excitement with a nostalgic feel, which has one of the show organizers, Bridget Amitrano, beyond thrilled.

“I was speaking with other coaches about how amazing it is to continue the tradition of the Valley Stream pool,” said Amitrano, who is also a lifeguard supervisor there. “It is remarkable to lead this historic event that whole town can see.”

For much of the behind the scenes preparations, Amitrano worked with other lifeguard supervisors Lauren Feltington and Allison Ferrara. In addition, Aquatic Club coaches Jillian Castado and Arline Daly helped with the show tasks. All five ladies met together to decide on songs and discuss a theme for the show which made its debut about 45 years ago.

On the big day, the ladies will be very busy in making sure that the club members are ready for their performance. Each of swimmers, who range from 6 to 16 years old, will be divided into different groups based on their abilities to perform routines. Amitrano added that on top of getting one group ready to dance in the water after the previous group exits, she will help the girls do their hair and make-up back stage.

You can expect to see the culmination of weeks of the club’s hard work since beginning their practices on June 12 when the pool opened for the summer season. During the show, the team will do a swim exhibition. And there will be raffle prizes, too.