This past Sunday afternoon was not only the last open day for the Henderson Aquatic Center but it was also a time to say “goodbye†to retiring manager Becky Franz.
It’s hard to believe that 25 years ago Becky came on board to manage the Henderson pool. But her history with the Henderson pool goes back even further. She was one of the five original lifeguards that were hired when the first Henderson Pool was opened in 1972. Under Becky’s management, the Henderson Aquatic Center has a very fine reputation in the area as a well run pool where parents can be confident that their children are safe.
Teaching and training have always been one of Becky’s strengths and as a result the Henderson Pool has developed a very successful swimming and teaching program. Through her supervision and expertise the Henderson Red Cross programs are one of the best in the area. “We have a very strong system of teaching here and I believe we have served the area kids very well,†said Becky. She has helped teach CPR and First Aide classes, Lifeguard training, Red Cross Lessons and Guard Start training during her 25 years.
Becky got her start in the teaching area when after having her own children she began offering water baby classes at the Henderson Pool. These classes became very popular for teaching infants and toddlers alongside with their mothers. It’s no surprise that all four of Becky’s own children became lifeguards and worked at the pool with their mother. “I remember one 4th of July weekend when we were short of help and it was me and all my kids working at the pool,†said Becky.
Becky has witnessed many changes in her tenure but the biggest one was the building of the current Aquatic Center 8 years ago. Becky was able to assist the City in much of the planning that went into the design and building of the pool. She remembers making trips to visit many new pools investigating their design and engineering. As a result of her assistance with the research, the new Aquatic Center was built by a reputable pool company with few problems.
“What I will miss most is the relationships I’ve had over the years with the assistant managers and watching the cycle of young lifeguards who grow-up maturing into very responsible individuals,†said Becky. It is to Becky’s credit that it is not uncommon for lifeguards to work summers all the way through high school and college to become capable assistant mangers.
So it is only fitting that one of those young lifeguards that started when Becky first became a manager 25 years ago will make sure of a continued successful program. Angie Bergen who has co-managed with Becky for several years will continue managing the pool along with new assistant manager hires, Anne Regier and Nora Ohrt. The Henderson Aquatic Center is in good hands as Becky steps down because of her dedication and hard work for the past 25 years.
Shannon Siebert
Photos from the Reception for Becky at the Pool yesterday hosted by the City of Henderson.
