Nine-time Olympic medalist and world champion swimmer Ryan Murphy, his parents, Pat and Katy Murphy, and grandfather Mike Sullivan opened Goldfish Swim School - Saint Johns on Oct. 15.
It is at 2420 County Road 210, north of Hurricane Grill and Wings, about 3 miles west of Interstate 95.
The project cost for the 8,585-square-foot school was $1.96 million, according to a building permit.
Founded in 2006, Gold Fish operates more than 150 locations through franchises. The Murphys’ is the first in Northeast Florida.
Its curriculum, The Science of SwimPlay, focuses on teaching through guided play. It is backed by science for its efficacy in learning to swim, according to goldfishswimschool.com.
“We’re very serious about teaching your children to swim and to swim the right way, but we also know that the best way to learn is to have a good time while doing it,” said Ryan Murphy. “We want to make sure we’re mixing in some fun and games so they stay engaged for 30 minutes.
“Unfortunately, drowning deaths are on the rise in the United States, and drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1 to 4. However, research shows that you can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% for 1- to 4-year-olds who take formal swim lessons.”
He said the school has about 475 swimmers now with a capacity of 2,000.
“It’s been a strong opening, and we have big goals,” he said. “We’re happy with the people who are walking through the door that they are having a good time.”
He said word-of-mouth promotion is the driver.
The swim school offers a 75-foot long, 90-degree heated indoor swimming pool, air-conditioned viewing facility, water purification, private space for parties and events, changing rooms, and hair and swimsuit drying stations.
The school accepts children from four months to 12 years old.
There are five class categories, divided by age and intensity: Mini, Junior, Glider, Pro and Swim Force. Prices range from $31 for group lessons to $125 for a one-on-one session with a coach.
“Swim lessons are more important than ever, especially in Florida where we are surrounded by water,” said Katy Murphy in a news release. “We are honored to introduce a life-saving skill to children across Northeast Florida through an interactive, safe environment.”
She said the Murphys considered three locations before selecting the Saint Johns site. The other options were south of The Bolles School on San Jose Boulevard and near the intersection of Kernan and Atlantic boulevards.
“I have led and observed countless swim lessons throughout my career, and the curriculum and culture that Goldfish Swim School offers is second to none,” Ryan Murphy said.
“My family is proud to own this new school to spread the importance of safe swimming and water safety in our hometown.”