Introducing the Iowa City Area Sports Commission’s October Playmaker of the Month, Emily Downes!
Once a month, we will be highlighting our sports community members during a time of year they work closely with our team.
Current Title?
Associate Director of Aquatics
How many years have you been with UI Aquatics?
7 years
What brought you to Aquatics?
I started working in Aquatics as a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor when I was in high school. I continued my aquatic employment throughout college where I learned my passions could align with a full-time career in Aquatics.
What events are you most proud of during your time at Aquatics?
I am most proud of the opportunities Aquatics provides through various outlets, including swim club, swim lessons, swim teams, lap swim, recreational swimming, and recovery. The event I am most proud of is the 2024 Speedo Sectionals where we welcomed over 700 athletes from all over the country to have a long course opportunity to achieve an Olympic Time Trial cut.
Favorite thing about the swimming community that you would like to share with others?
The swimming community all acknowledge that swimming is a lifelong sport, and the community will support everyone at different skill levels with different goals.
What goals do you have for the organization?
To continue to promote and enhance the Iowa Flyers Swim Club, Recreational Services Group and Private Swim Lessons, American Red Cross Certification Courses, and serve as one of the top facilities in the nation to host competitive swimming and diving events.
How did you get into the sport of swimming?
I took swimming lessons at the age of 6 months through age 4. At the age of 5, I started swimming competitively. I swam year-round through YMCA and USA Swimming all the way through high school. I went on to play tennis in college but I continued working as a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor, where I learned Aquatics was a career I was experienced in and passionate about!