swimwest-swim-school Research by SuperAGI

Company Overview

SwimWest Swim School is a distinguished institution founded in 1990 by Karen Kittelson Clay. Based in Madison and Fitchburg, Wisconsin, SwimWest has earned international recognition for its dedication to aquatic safety and swimming education. Over the past 32 years, it has been a leader in providing swimming instruction to individuals of all ages, from infants as young as 4 months to adults, with a focus on fostering confidence and comprehensive water safety skills.

Mission and Vision

The core mission of SwimWest Swim School is to advance water safety and enhance swimming confidence through an established curriculum. The lessons offered aim to deliver lasting physical, social, and mental benefits. The school emphasizes the importance of a consistent learning schedule featuring half-hour, once-a-week sessions to help swimmers become comfortable and proficient in the water over time.

Facilities and Programs

SwimWest Swim School operates two locations, each featuring a comfortable swimming environment with water temperatures maintained at 90 degrees and surrounding air at 92 degrees. The facilities offer swimming lessons seven days a week, accommodating various family schedules with morning, afternoon, and evening classes.

In addition to standard lessons, SwimWest provides supplementary services such as family swim sessions, birthday party hosting, and scout programs, thus offering a comprehensive aquatic educational experience. The instructional team consists of certified instructors accredited by the United States Swim School Association (USSSA) and trained in CPR and First Aid.

Leadership

Karen Kittelson Clay, CEO and Founder, has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining the high standards and esteemed reputation of SwimWest Swim School.

Kassy Rabenhorst, General Manager and Aquatic Director, plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations and ensuring the quality and excellence of the instruction provided.

Recent Developments

In 2022, SwimWest Swim School was acquired by Emler Swim School, which aims to uphold SwimWest's legacy while benefitting from Emler’s outstanding program management and extensive experience in swim education across the United States.

Contact Information

Madison Location: 608.831.6829, customerservice@swimwest.com

Fitchburg Location: 608.276.7946, fitchburg@swimwest.com

Competitor Profiling

Emler Swim School

Foundation and Locations: Established in 1975, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with 41 locations across 8 states.

Specialty: Offers semester-based swim instruction with 20 levels for all ages, focusing on safety and skill development. Includes infant water introduction and competitive swim training.

Employee Training: Conducts 56 hours of classroom and in-water training for instructors.

Reputation: Known for workplace excellence with multiple awards.

Aqua-Tots Swim Schools

Foundation and Reach: Founded in 1991, based in Mesa, Arizona, with over 150 global locations.

Target Demographic: Indoor lessons for children aged 4 months to 12 years in 14 countries.

Curriculum: Utilizes a curriculum that emphasizes water safety, used for over five million annual swim lessons.

Reputation: Recognized for franchisee satisfaction and media recognition for safety advocacy.

SafeSplash Swim Schools

Foundation and Insights: Founded in 2005, headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, with approximately 150 locations.

Educational Approach: Specializes in teaching children from 6 months old through adults, with programs designed by Olympian Missy Franklin.

Franchise Model: Operates in existing pool spaces, emphasizing community engagement and high returns.

Recognition: Franchisee Jaime Zilverberg awarded the 2024 Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association.

Goldfish Swim School

Foundation Details: Established in 2006, headquartered in Troy, Michigan.

Service Offerings: Offers swim instruction to infants and young children in a playful environment with state-of-the-art facilities.

Franchise Network: Family-owned, known for steady innovation and expansion.

Reputation: Praised for nurturing, safety-focused environments and successful business operations.

British Swim School

Foundation and Expansion: Founded in 1981 in the UK, expanded to the U.S. in the 1990s, now part of Buzz Franchise Brands with over 450 franchises.

Unique Selling Proposition: Focuses on life-saving survival skills for children as young as 3 months.

Partnership Model: Operates within existing facilities, enhancing client access to various locations.

Key Insights for SwimWest Swim School

Market Positioning: Competing in a saturated market with established players focused on specialized curricula and community programs.

Competitive Edge: By understanding competitors’ unique offerings, SwimWest can differentiate itself through personalized instruction and community engagement.