GLTS pool honors former School Committee member, aquatics director, coach

ANDOVER聽九秀直播� In the 1980s, the pool at Greater Lawrence Tech was at risk of closing until a volunteer made the case for its survival.

Last week, the school dedicated the "Marilyn Fitzgerald Natatorium" to honor her commitment to the school and sport of swimming, according to a press release from the school.

Joining first as volunteer at the Merrimack Valley YWCA, Fitzgerald later became the school's aquatics director and following her retirement in 2008, a School Committee member until early April of this year.

At the time, the GLTS pool was poorly maintained and underutilized.

During the ceremony, she also thanked her family, former co-workers and recognized other swim coaches in attendance.

九秀直播淭hese people impacted lives just like I did, all because we maintained that pool,九秀直播� Fitzgerald said at the post-dedication ceremony. "It is a gem.九秀直播�

Apart from her other commitments, Fitzgerald also mentored many students who were struggling or facing challenges.

九秀直播淪he never gave up on one kid,九秀直播� Superintendent John Lavoie said.

She also led Andover High九秀直播檚 swim teams to 18 state championships as a coach.

When there was talk of closing the pool, there was debate about turning it into a wrestling training room.

"I knew that once you get rid of a pool, it never comes back," Fitzgerald said.