A colleague of mine “raised her children” at the SCCA pool—back in the 70’s and 80’s. She convinced me this spring that it was the way to spend the summer with my kids. We joined the pool—a little hesitantly because of the membership costs—but with the promise to ourselves that we would use it. After about six weeks of summer, there is no doubt we will continue our membership for years to come—without a thought of the membership fees.

Fort Collins can get hot. Some days…it is down right beastly—as my grandmother used to say. Kids need to be outdoors where they can run, jump, and scream; in the heat they need to be in water.

At SCCA our kids take swimming lessons in the morning. The classes are inexpensive and small in numbers. The lifeguards teach the classes, then get to know the kids well enough to call them by name later in the day when it is free swim.

We usually end up back at the pool in the afternoon. We bring a picnic dinner and plenty of sunscreen. After we eat, swim, and tire out the kids we can shower them right there and come home and toss them right into bed. It’s a perfect way to spend a summer evening.

The pool membership includes guest passes, the ability to reserve the BBQ area or the kiddie pool for parties. The facilities are on the older side, but that doesn’t really bother anyone. The snack shack’s charm lies in its cinder block walls and low priced treats. The beach volleyball court, kid’s climbing structure, and plenty of shade and chairs make the pool even more comfortable.

I’ve met some great people this summer at the SCCA pool. The community is very welcoming and laid back. A great day—that revealed much about the pool’s leadership and community—was the Fourth of July. Fun events, a free picnic, kid’s contests and prizes filled the day with unforgettable memories. A crazy crowd, filling the pool with more people than water, it was still friendly and familiar. Everyone looked out for each other’s kids and kids make friends they never would have made.

Anyone can join the pool, regardless of where they live. Most members are from the South College Heights area, however. Wherever you might live, joining SCCA will connect you with some very friendly families and keep you cool all summer.

SCCA Pool
[where: 313 Tulane Drive Fort Collins, CO 80525]
970 493-4102
www.sccapool.org