With a travel schedule that would make most rock bands tired, former Olympic swimmer Josh Davis is still one of the most visible ambassadors of the sport.
From speaking at elementary schools, churches, military bases, and awards banquets to leading a nationwide swim clinic tour with other Olympians, the father of five from San Antonio does not like to use the “r” word.
“I don’t like to think of myself as ‘retired’ from swimming,” Davis said. “Even though I have not swam in a major competition in three years, I am more involved with the swimming community now than ever before.”
Last month, Davis partnered with insurance provider Mutual of Omaha, an official sponsor of USA Swimming, to headline a nationwide 100-city tour of instructional swim clinics.
At these fun, interactive events, one other Olympian usually assists Davis as he shares words of inspiration and his world-class technique with a captive audience of young swimming hopefuls. Fellow ex-University of Texas standouts Aaron Peirsol and Brendan Hansen are also members of this “Gold Medal Team.”
In the midst of a demanding travel schedule, Davis also finds time to inspire groups that aren’t wearing a Speedo.
School children, church congregations, FBI employees, and Army soldiers bound for Iraq are all groups that he has spoken to over the last few months.
A motivational message that Davis often shares is his “7 Habits of Highly Successful Athletes.”
“I have been blessed with some incredible coaches and mentors that have taught me invaluable principles of pursuing excellence,” Davis explained. “These ‘habits’ are not just for athletes though. They can be implemented by anyone who is simply wanting to do his or her best.”
Last week, Davis visited students at Mernin Elementary, a local school in San Antonio, and stressed the importance of regular exercise and making healthy choices.
Another message Davis is passionate about sharing with young people is the importance of reading.
““Learning how to be a lifetime reader is so important,” Davis said. “Not only does reading open up your mind and your imagination, but it is the key to being a successful student.”
Next month, Davis’s travels will take him overseas to promote the sport of swimming in the African country of Rwanda.
“I have read about the amazing spirit of hope and joy that the Rwandan people have.” Davis beamed. “That’s pretty incredible considering the unspeakable suffering they have endured.”
In 1994, more than half a million Rwandans were killed by their fellow countrymen in an ethnic genocide.
While Rwanda as a whole has made enormous progress from this tragedy, the country’s athletics program is also hoping to rebound. Davis hopes to invite one or two Rwandan swimmers to the U.S. to train for 2008 or 2012 Olympics.
As the best swimmers in the world are preparing for next month’s FINA World Championship meet in Melbourne, Australia and next year’s Olympics in Beijing, China, Davis is packing his bags for his next swim clinic or public appearance.
“I am excited about this new chapter in my swimming career,” Davis explained. “If my story encourages just one child to pursue his or her dreams, then that for me is more rewarding than any medals or records.”
Davis was the only man in any sport to win three gold medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. The former American record-holder and NCAA Champion also won two silver medals at the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney, Australia.
For more information about Josh Davis, visit www.joshdavis.com. For more information about the Mutual of Omaha BREAKout! Swim Clinic with Josh Davis, visit www.breakoutswimclinic.com.
by Sam Davis
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