There is good news for the many Bayville swimmers that meet regularly at the Y. the new aquatics director at the YMCA at Glen Cove, Kevin Hawkins, has started his appointment with enthusiasm and determination to implement new features and expand existing programs for the Ys aquatic facilities. Ambitious plans often falter when it comes to overcoming resistance to innovations and changes to long established routines. But Kevin Hawkins has proven, in his previous position as aquatics director at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center at East Hills, that he has the perseverance to attain his goals. During his nine-year tenure at Sid Jacobson's he built up an impressive aquatic program, utilizing the facilities to their utmost capacity. He had previously held the position of director at Atlantic Beach in the Town of Hempstead.

Kevin, a master swimmer (Long Course National Championship) understands the needs of lap swimmers and has already increased the lanes and hours for lap swimming as his first improvement. He will also provide lap lanes for teenagers from 13 to 17, a group presently excluded from using adult lap lanes. The teenagers will be able too do laps on Tuesday and Thursday nights, with the possibility of extending the hours if needed. One on one swimming instruction will be available in the future. Another addition will be a Swim Club to represent the YMCA at contests, planned for January or February of next year.

An innovative feature will be a kayaking class for adult/child combinations, leading to certification and a kayak club for the summer months. A renovation of the entire pool area is planned within the coming year. In order to avoid a long interruption of pool use, renovations will take place during the summer months while the outdoor pool is in use, and including the regular closing period during September.

Kevin is engaged in the training and motivation of his staff. He praised the support and cooperation of his work force and looks forward to a productive and promising future for the YMCA at Glen Cove.

For membership information call 671-8270.