A super fun event in the water

An engaging program for a water-based event ?

How do you design a program that combines education with fun and keeps both children and adults interested?

We always build the program around the main purpose of the event. Some of our events focus on playful, sports-style competition — we keep the atmosphere light and friendly, while teaching children what sport, fair play, and the joy of effort are all about.

In such cases, we make sure to include:

• Atmosphere – music, lighting, a DJ

• Support elements – gifts, medals, starter packs

• Extras – an animation corner, a cheering zone

However, there are also events with an educational and consultative character — for example, when organizing an event related to passing the swimming card test, we combine it with consultations with coaches, skills assessments, and water attractions such as activities with inflatables.

How the event looks should depend on:

• the mission of your swimming school

• the target group — whether it’s children, parents, or a joint family activity

• your resources and creativity — sometimes less is more when it’s done with heart

An event that truly stays in memory is more than just a well-crafted plan. It’s the emotions, the atmosphere, and the experiences participants take with them — often for many months. What makes an event turn into a “super fun” memory?

Here are our proven ingredients of that magic:

• Music and lighting – the right soundtrack, colorful spotlights, and dynamic lighting changes are fantastic additions that transform an ordinary pool into a place of extraordinary experiences.

• Appreciating every participant – everyone puts their heart into taking part, so we honor that with full respect. All participants receive a commemorative gift, and the best ones get medals and attractive prizes. This builds pride and motivation for the future.

• An energetic host – someone who can connect the competitors with the audience, elevate the atmosphere, bring smiles, and engage the crowd. A good host is like an emotion director — tying everything together into one compelling show.

• Active and relaxation zones – not everyone needs to be constantly on the move. Drawing corners, activities for younger siblings, or a photo booth with water-themed props provide space to relax, take photos, and catch a break between attractions.

• Closeness of the coaches – nothing boosts children’s emotions like a coach standing beside them, giving high-fives, cheering, and sharing their joy. These relationships are priceless — they build community and trust.

• Event coverage – professional photos, dynamic videos, and live social media coverage are great ways to summarize, promote, and commemorate the event. Parents eagerly share them, kids watch themselves with pride, and the school strengthens its brand through authentic emotions.

Because it’s not the budget that creates the atmosphere — it’s the people, the details, and the heart put into the organization. These are the elements that stay in memory — not as a date on a calendar, but as a truly special experience.

The event team for a water-based activity!

How do you assemble an organizational team, and which roles are essential? What mandatory safety measures must be kept in mind when organizing water events involving children?

A good event is the result of a well-selected and well-coordinated team. Even with a modest budget, it’s worth ensuring a clear division of roles — this keeps everything running smoothly and helps participants feel cared for.

At Hasten, we prioritize professionalism — especially when competition comes into play.

That’s why at every event we include: 

• judges – for swimming competitions, we don’t improvise. We hire licensed judges from the Polish Swimming Federation (PZP). This elevates the event’s prestige, guarantees fairness, and teaches children the principles of real competition;

• a host (emcee) – someone experienced with a microphone. They connect the audience with what’s happening in the water, set the rhythm of the event, build excitement, and ease the atmosphere when needed. Their voice guides participants through the entire event;

• animators – they play a different but equally important role. They stay in the activity zones, look after younger siblings, and run games, arts-and-crafts activities, and movement-based fun outside the water. Thanks to them, parents can focus on the children competing, and the little ones have their own attractions;

• a photographer and social media coordinator – documenting the event is a must nowadays. Professional photos and dynamic social media coverage are not only keepsakes but also key elements of brand-building and promoting the school;

• the technical and organizational team – responsible for the competition office, participant registration, start lists, distributing numbers and certificates. They are the first point of contact for parents and ensure the smooth flow of the event;

• a medical lifeguard – having trained personnel on site is not only a formal requirement but an absolute necessity. Participant safety must be a priority at every stage;

• volunteers – often essential support. They help people navigate the facility, distribute starter packs, and manage movement in the changing areas.

The better the team is organized, the more peace of mind for the organizer and the better the experience for participants. Well-planned roles guarantee that the event runs smoothly and without chaos — and that everyone feels part of something truly great.

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Interview by: Maciej Mazerant / Managing Editor, AQUA SPEED Magazine

Photos: Hasten Swimming School and Swimming Business