4 Simple Ways to Recognize Your Aquatics Staff

International Lifeguard Appreciation Day on July 31 provides an important opportunity to recognize the lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatic staff who help keep our communities safe. Their work often happens behind the scenes—preventing incidents before they occur, responding when emergencies arise, and creating positive experiences for guests every day. While a dedicated day of appreciation is valuable, meaningful recognition should not be limited to a single date on the calendar. Consistent recognition helps staff feel valued, strengthens team culture, improves morale, and can even support retention.

The good news is that showing appreciation does not have to be complicated or expensive. Small gestures can go a long way in building morale, increasing retention, and creating a positive team culture. Throughout my career in aquatics, I have found that some of the most meaningful recognition efforts are also the simplest. Here are four ways to recognize your staff and celebrate their contributions.

1. Guard of the Week Recognition

One of the most successful recognition programs I have implemented is a Guard of the Week initiative. I purchased two "Guard of the Week" rescue tubes. One tube is displayed in the guard office, where staff can write their names and the weeks they were recognized. Since in-services are held every other week, the tube serves as a visible reminder of staff accomplishments throughout the year.

The second tube is a traveling tube that the selected lifeguard can use while on duty. It creates excitement among staff and gives the recipient a unique way to showcase their achievement.

To make the recognition even more meaningful, I also provide Guard of the Week bag tags that staff can attach to a backpack, lanyard, or keychain. Think of it as the aquatics version of a collectible item—except it celebrates lifesaving skills, teamwork, and outstanding performance.

Resources:

• Guard Of The Week Rescue Tubes

• Guard of the Week Bag Tag

2. Utilize Social Media to Recognize Your Team

Social media can be a powerful recognition tool, especially for Gen Z employees. Highlighting staff accomplishments online allows them to share achievements with friends and family while also promoting your aquatics program.

Examples of recognition content may include:

• Staff birthdays

• Guard of the Week or Guard of the Month recognitions

• Staff spotlights

• Training highlights

• Team-building activities

• Certification achievements

At the collegiate recreation facility where I work, our aquatics team utilizes social media to celebrate staff accomplishments and build community. Before posting any employee, however, it is important to obtain appropriate permission and follow your organization's social media policies.

3. Conduct Regular Check-Ins

Not every employee enjoys public recognition. Some staff members prefer a more personal approach, which is why regular check-ins are so important.

At the collegiate recreation facility where I work, I make it a priority to check in with staff. These conversations provide an opportunity to discuss goals, answer questions, and offer support. When someone goes above and beyond, I often stop by the guard office to personally thank them for their efforts.

One of my favorite recognition methods is writing handwritten thank-you notes. Taking a few minutes to write a personal message can have a lasting impact and show staff that their contributions are noticed and appreciated. Whether recognizing exceptional customer service, leadership during a challenging situation, or a willingness to help others, a handwritten note adds a personal touch that many staff members value.

These conversations also provide an opportunity to learn how staff members prefer to be recognized. Understanding individual preferences helps ensure recognition feels meaningful and authentic.

4. Honor Graduating and Departing Staff

Aquatics positions are often seasonal, and many staff members eventually move on after graduation or other life transitions. Finding meaningful ways to celebrate their contributions helps create a lasting legacy within your program.

Some examples I have seen include:

• A Golden Rescue Tube is displayed in the guard office, where staff members sign their names before departing.

• A Legacy Wall where each staff member receives a brick or tile to decorate. For every season or year they return, they can add to their design, creating a visual history of the program.

• Recognition events or end-of-year celebrations that highlight staff accomplishments and milestones.

These traditions help departing staff feel appreciated while also inspiring current employees to remain engaged and connected to the program.

Final Thoughts

Recognition does not need to be elaborate to be effective. Whether it is a traveling rescue tube, a social media spotlight, a handwritten thank-you note, or a legacy project, the goal is the same: helping staff feel valued for the work they do.

When employees know their contributions matter, they are more likely to stay engaged, provide excellent service, and contribute to a positive culture. The best recognition programs are not necessarily the most expensive—they are the ones that consistently demonstrate appreciation and create a sense of belonging within your team.

About the Author

Deanna Main (she/her) is the Senior Coordinator of Aquatics at the University of Colorado Boulder and serves on the AOAP Diversity and Inclusion Committee and Membership Engagement Committee. Throughout her aquatics career, she has gained experience in a variety of unique environments, including lifeguarding at Casa Bonita during diver practices, supporting water safety operations at Sloan's Lake during the Dragon Boat Festival, and volunteering at Special Olympics Polar Plunge events and Ironman races. You can connect with Deanna at Deanna.Main@colorado.edu. 

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