Grayson's Summer Swim Advice

Check out Grayson’s story as he shares about his experience with swimming and talks about safety tips to remember when in the water.  
** Questions were answered in collaboration by Grayson and Janean (mom and advocate) **  

From Mommy & Me to Setting Dreams Big:
​A Natural Talent Emerges 
When Grayson first dipped his toes into the pool — it was simply to splash alongside his mom during “Mommy & Me” classes. That early comfort in the water set the stage for an exciting journey that would kickstart his love for swimming.  

In the third grade, it was clear Grayson had a special skill for swimming. “We were at Poppy’s Promise iCan Swim Camp,” recalls his mom, Janean, “when one of the instructors noticed how long he could hold his breath underwater. They quickly pulled him into the lap section of the pool and began working on different swim strokes,” and Grayson’s swim history took off from there.  
 
Soon after, Grayson joined the Aqua Storm Club and Special Olympics swimming, which finally led to joining the Century High School’s swim team. Before long, Grayson was racing laps in Special Olympics competitions and at school meets. His determination and ability to hype up the crowd, quickly made him a fan favorite. 

A Day in the Life of a Swimmer 
Grayson’s training routine is nothing short of easy—and it starts before dawn. Three times a week, he’s in the pool before 5 AM for his practice. Late afternoons find him back in the water at 5:45 PM, refining his freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke. In between swims, he lifts weights twice a week through Sanford’s Power & Strength program to build the muscle and endurance every competitive swimmer needs. 

“I’m never cold!.... I like being in the water doing the different strokes.” No matter how early or cold— Grayson treats it as a chance to get better. 
 
When he isn’t in the pool or working out at the gym, Grayson makes sure to eat a balanced meal, stay hydrated, and brings protein-rich snacks every practice. In addition to swimming and the gym, Grayson participates in other sports too, like track, basketball, and flag football.  

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Life Skills in the Water (... its more than medals)  
Swimming isn’t just a sport for Grayson; it’s been a catalyst for growth in every arena of his life. Janean shares that throughout the year, Grayson stays active by swimming and hitting the gym. It is the best type of physical activity for him. Grayson is making lifelong friends on his teams, setting and achieving goals, and discovered a big community that cheers him on along the way. Throughout his swimming career, he has gained confidence, built lasting friendships, and discovered an activity that he can do well into his adulthood to stay healthy.   

Making Waves in Our Community 
Grayson’s is a reminder that inclusive sports build more than strength—they foster belonging. The friendships he's gained and the sense of community he feels each event is important. Grayson has impacted our community in a big way and is not stopping there. He dreams of one day competing in the Para Olympics, a goal that fuels every early‑morning practice.

When asked his favorite swim memory, there were too many to share – from helping excite the crowd to competing with his friends, but one that sticks out is receiving the Spirit Award at his end of the season swim banquet at Century High School.  
 
Safety First - Tips and Tricks for Water Fun This Summer 
Grayson and his family never take water safety for granted and had these helpful reminders to consider as you head for the pools this summer to beat the heat.  

• “Float, Don’t Sink”: Always remember to use life jackets and or floaties in the water to help

• Be mindful of lifeguards and swim in areas that are supervised  

• Visibility is important!
  • Consider wearing bright- colored swimwear and goggles to help stand out in the water or pool

• Keep protein‑rich snacks and regulate hydration by keeping water on hand. 
  
  

Summer Fun This Summer
If you’re looking for a summer activity that combines safety, skill, and social connection, consider jumping into the pool.  There are many different ways to get active:  

• Look into swim lessons or swim clubs through your local Parks and Rec 

• Going to your community pool or water park (i.e. Raging Rivers Aquatic Center) 

• Register for iCan Swim Camp in Bismarck. 

• Sign up for Special Olympics Swim 

• Inclusive sports – swimming  

If you have any questions or want to learn more, please reach out to [email protected]. 
And remember be brave, work hard, and always put safety first!  

Check out some of these water fun and community activities happening in North Dakota. If we missed one, please share it with us. ​