MENDON, MASS. — As summer arrives and families flock to pools, lakes, and beaches, Mendon resident Ethan Schulte is helping swimmers of all ages develop one of life’s most valuable skills through his growing program, Marco Polo Aquatics.
Founded five years ago, Marco Polo Aquatics was created to offer a more personalized alternative to traditional swim lessons. Schulte, a Nipmuc Regional High School graduate who has spent seven years teaching swimming and working as a lifeguard, noticed many families were paying high costs for lessons while receiving limited one-on-one instruction. His solution was a program tailored to each swimmer’s individual goals, whether that means learning basic water safety, overcoming a fear of the water, refining stroke technique, or preparing for competitive swim teams.
“I wanted to provide local families with more personalized experiences,” Schulte said during a recent interview with Andrew McCarthy on MyFM 101.3.
The program serves swimmers of all ages and skill levels, from toddlers taking their first steps into the water to adults looking to improve their abilities. Schulte utilizes a nine-level curriculum that ranges from beginner “Little Guppy” swimmers to advanced “Orca” swimmers preparing for competition.
Beyond teaching technique, Schulte takes pride in helping young swimmers gain confidence. He recalled working with children who were initially hesitant to put their faces in the water, only to see them grow into strong swimmers capable of racing alongside him a few years later.
In addition to private swim lessons, Marco Polo Aquatics also offers private lifeguarding services for pool parties and events. With flexible scheduling and a commitment to individualized instruction, Schulte hopes to help more local families enjoy the water safely and confidently this summer.
