Sioux Falls Swim Time Tight

Plans continue on a proposed indoor aquatics center in Sioux Falls. Officials with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department are scheduled to update the Sioux Falls City Council on the master plans for a facility at Spellerberg Park.
    
On the eve of another step in the process, lanes are still full at area pools. Two competitive Sioux Falls swim teams pushing for the new pool say they are running out of space.

“We practice from 5 a.m. until 6:30 a.m. and from 4:15 p.m. through 8:30 p.m.,” Snowfox coach Clyde Smith said. “That covers ages nine to 18-years-old.”

The YWCA and YMCA each see more than 100 swimmers a day.

“There are kids that swim competitively. We also have a recreation group for students who run cross country or track and field,” Snowfox President Sherry Miller said.

Miller says the city's swimming organizations have always wished for a pool of their own someday. They could be closer than ever as the city moves forward studying proposals that could include a new indoor pool.

“We could always use another facility. Now we are also hosting meets at this location,” Miller said.

There isn't enough indoor water for wintertime practice. If a new aquatics center floats their way Miller says things would change.

Coach Smith agrees. The swimmers adjust schedules just to hit the pool. He says they're good sports and their success is growing despite the odd practice hours.

“We ask a lot of the kids. And they've put in the effort and are getting better so the hours are worth it,” said Smith.

The Sioux Falls Aquatic Association is working with the parks department on the indoor pool plans. City leaders present their proposal Tuesday at 4 p.m. during the Sioux Falls City Council Informational Meeting.