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The RCU Aquatic Centre is officially open for the summer season, and staff are ready to welcome swimmers of all ages with a lineup of returning favourites and exciting new programs.

Public swimming officially opened on Friday, with daily weekend sessions from 1 to 5 p.m. and again from 6 to 9 p.m. And if you’re planning to visit this weekend, you're not alone. 

“We love to see the kids who come and just make the pool their home over summer,” says Dean Klassen, Aquatic Programmer and longtime lifeguard at the facility. “It's such a great space, and we're working to make it even more welcoming for everyone this year.”

Expanded program options for all ages

One of the standout additions this season is an increased focus on accessibility and flexibility.

“This year, our Aquafit classes are offered both in the morning and evening,” Klassen says. “It just makes it a little bit easier for everyone to get in when they want to.”

A new Accessibility Swim is also being introduced.

“We're trying to slow down the pool a little bit, quiet it down a little bit, and make it so that everyone has a chance to enjoy it—whether it’s physical disabilities or sensory issues,” Klassen adds.

Another highlight is Tuning Tots Swim, an early-childhood program that helps little ones get comfortable in the water in a quieter, more relaxed setting. “It’s a great time for young parents in the community to connect,” says Klassen.

Community, connection, and coffee

The RCU Aquatic Centre is also introducing a fresh take on its Senior Swim.

“This year, we’ve added coffee, snacks, and lawn games like bocce ball,” says Brooke Animalla, one of the Aquatic Programmers. “It’s a great way for older adults to stay active and socialize in a relaxed atmosphere.”

For those looking to build water skills, swim lessons are still available with limited spots. “You can register online through our website, or call if you need help signing up,” Animalla says.

The team behind the pool

While the programs shine, the people make it special.

“I am so fortunate to have a team here that is just incredible,” says Meg Dias, Recreation Programmer for the City of Winkler. “They’re passionate about water safety and making this an amazing place to work and play.”

Even with a strong returning staff, Dias says there's a fresh energy. “It’s a younger crowd overall, but we’ve got people like Dean and Brooke who’ve been here a long time. They’ve taught me a ton about the aquatics world.”

A summer home for generations

For many in Winkler, the RCU Aquatic Centre isn’t just a pool—it’s a summer home, a place to grow up, connect, and create memories.

“I didn’t grow up in town, so I wasn’t one of those kids who got to spend every day at the pool,” says Dean Klassen, aquatic programmer. “But even now, through my gardening years and still today, I just love seeing the kids who do. That kind of community feeling is what we hope to keep building.”

That spirit is shared by Brooke Animalla, who has worked at the pool since she was 16. Now in her eighth summer, she says it’s the atmosphere that keeps her coming back. “The staff here are amazing, and even as people come and go, that positive energy never changes. It’s just such a fun place to work.”

Meg Dias, rec programmer with the City of Winkler, says she knows exactly what kind of memories families are making here—because she lived them herself. “I grew up riding my bike to a small-town pool, staying all day, then heading home for supper before going back again for evening swim,” she recalls. “Those memories stick with you—and it’s what we want today’s kids in Winkler to experience too.”

Plan your visit

Whether you're dropping in for public swim, registering for lessons, or checking out a new program, the RCU Aquatic Centre is ready to make this summer memorable.

The pool is open now and operating weekend public swim hours of 1–5 p.m. and 6–9 p.m. and weekday public swim hours of 6–9 p.m, with full programming ramping up in the coming weeks.

To register for programs or swimming lessons, visit the RCU Aquatic Centre website or call the facility directly.

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