10/05/2026
New programs & special events
By Director of Aquatics Michelle Hitchens
(Weblink: https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/news_content?announcementId=3349&backURL=%2Fweb%2Fpages%2Fopa-news&_jsfBridgeRedirect=true )
The following appeared in the fall 2026 Ocean Pines Report quarterly newsletter: www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/quarterly-newsletters
Thanks for another great summer in Ocean Pines! All outdoor pools are now closed for the season and will reopen Memorial Day Weekend 2027.
Join us at the Sports Core Pool for our fall and winter programs, plus several special events.
Some of our notable upcoming special events include:
• Halloween Spooky Swim – Sat, Oct. 24
• Mermaid Swim – Sat, Nov. 14
• Christmas Bash & Santa Swim – Sat, Dec. 19
Junior Lifeguard Programs
Our Junior Lifeguard Program returns this fall and winter, instructed by Steve Yarzinsky and his team. This educational, hands-on course is designed to teach students about water safety, rescue techniques, teamwork, and fun!
Children will practice lifesaving water skills, swimming endurance, and learn how to handle emergencies, including first aid and an introduction to CPR. It’s a great opportunity to build water skills on their days off from school!
Program requirements:
Must be a strong swimmer
Able to swim the length of the pool
Able to tread water for one minute
Ages 8 years & up
Program dates:
• Fri, Oct. 16
• Mon, Feb. 15
• Fri, Apr. 9
All sessions are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Rates:
• Ocean Pines Resident - $87
• Non-Resident - $97
Rates include a Jr. Lifeguard t-shirt and whistle.
American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification & Recertification Class
We will be offering our American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification & Recertification Class again this December at the Sports Core Pool. The course includes online prep material as well as a 3-day in-person class. All online material must be completed before the first day of class, and students must attend all class days to receive certification!
Participants must be at least 15 years old by completion of last class.
The Swim Test is scheduled for Saturday, November 21 at 10 a.m. Class dates are Friday, December 4 from 5-9 p.m., Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, December 6, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The cost for the program is $325 for Ocean Pines Residents, and $350 for Non-Residents.
