2015 Conference Dives Deep to Shape the Future of Aquatics

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., July 27, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The twelfth World Aquatic Health™ Conference (WAHC) will host several unique and educational events to help leaders shape the future of aquatics, pools, and spas at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. The National Swimming Pool Foundation hosted event will take place October 7-9.

This scientific and leadership conference promises a packed schedule and a robust networking environment. In conjunction with the WAHC, there will be two other aquatic-related conferences before and after the WAHC at the same hotel. "Vote on the Code 2015" by the Council of the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) will be held October 6-7. The WAHC will then start with a keynote address by Olympian and legendary announcer, Rowdy Gaines on Thursday, October 8. Following the end of WAHC will be the USA Swimming "Build-A-Pool" conference from October 10-11.
"In addition to a spectrum of scientific seminars, the WAHC has become a hub to leadership events" explained Thomas M. Lachocki, Ph.D., CEO of NSPF. "Science helps shed a light on the future, but the networking helps make it happen," he adds.

This year's conference theme is Shaping the Future Through Aquatics. Seminars will focus on the most recent advances on health codes, Recreational Water Illness prevention, new industry technologies, advanced chemistry, disinfection byproduct prevention, and drowning prevention. A new track on Market Growth will reveal market research on how to create demand for pools, spas, and aquatic facilities. A series of short seminars on water immersion and activity health benefits will be presented to empower advocacy and growth.

Pre-Conference Events

Vote on the Code 2015: Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC)

Tuesday, October 6, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm-Wednesday, October 7, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

CMAHC, a nonprofit organization that oversees the collecting, assessing, and relaying to the CDC of important Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) update recommendations, will begin the organization's Biennial Conference two days before the WAHC. This co-pairing of conferences will give members a better chance to comment, analyze, and vote on submitted MAHC change requests. For attendees to register for this important aquatic discussion on health and safety sign up at the WAHC's CMAHC registration portal, cost is $220.00.

Insider's Tour

Wednesday, October 7, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

This year's pre-conference "Insider's Tour" will visit unique Scottsdale aquatic facilities. Participants will learn about different perspectives on designing and managing a profitable facility. Registration fee for this event is $60, lunch will be provided. Sign up at the WAHC's registration portal.

NSPF Instructor Update Meeting & Marketing Workshop

Wednesday, October 7, 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm

NSPF Instructors are invited to participate in the Marketing Workshop to learn new techniques for increasing your business and profitability. Immediately following is the NSPF 2015 International Instructor Update Meeting.

Noteworthy WAHC Events

Welcome Reception: Celebrate National Swimming Pool Foundation's 50th Anniversary

Wednesday, October 7, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Celebrate 50 years of Keeping Pools Safer and Open with NSPF, hosted at Desert Foothills. This special reception is a great opportunity to visit old friends, network, meet new contacts, experience the local tastes of the city, and celebrate NSPF's 50th Anniversary! The reception is free for WAHC registered attendees; bus transportation to and from the reception will be provided.

Private Film Screening

Thursday, October 8, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Be a part of a private screening of 2014's sport documentary, Touch the Wall, produced and directed by Grant Barbeito and Christo Brock. The film follows four time gold medalist, Missy Franklin and Kara Lynn Joyce on their quest to the 2012 Olympic Games.

Keynote Speakers and Seminars

Thursday, October 8 – Friday, October 9

WAHC will begin with keynote speaker, Olympian Rowdy Gaines, on the morning of October 8. Two keynote speakers from Float On, Graham Talley & Ashkahn Jahromi, speaking as a team, on Friday morning of October 9.

NSPF is partnering with Platinum Sponsor, PlayCore, to host a special "Water Immersion Works" symposium on Friday, October 9. Eight established researchers in the Aquatics Field will present 5-7 minute, TED-Style talks focused on the benefits of water immersion.

Details on all seminars and presenters can be found at TheWAHC.org. Included are links to a complete information package, secure online registration and hotel reservations. The deadline to take advantage of a $50.00 early registration discount is July 31. Full-time college students (12+ credit hours) may register for only $150.00 by providing proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university. For additional information, email conference@nspf.org or call 719-540-9119.

Post Conference Event

USA Swimming - Two-Day Build & Program-A-Pool Conference

Saturday, October 10, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm - Sunday, October 11, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

Registration Fee is $35 for WAHC conference attendees; sign up at Build & Program-A-Pool's registration portal. The Regional Build Program-A-Pool Conference is not just about building pools. Participants will learn how to program pools for financial sustainability, renovate, upgrade or expand existing pools, and design/build new facilities.

Conference Sponsors

The lead sponsors for the World Aquatic Health Conference are Hayward Commerical Products, provider of worldwide technology-advanced pool equipment, and PlayCore, a leader in developing programs, resources, and education around how child development is positively affected through inclusive play. Additional sponsors include Pentair Aquatic Systems, Counsilman-Hunsaker, WAPOTEC, Industrial Test Systems, Inc., ETS UV Technology, AQUASALT, Everything About Water Magazine, Clear Comfort, and Delta UV. Conference sponsors help us all by bringing the best and brightest together every year. Sponsorship is still available, please email conference@nspf.org for more information.

Tabletops

Tabletop displays are available for key sponsors. Also, 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations may receive a tabletop at no cost with two paid registrations on a first come, first serve basis. Organizations are encouraged to contact the National Swimming Pool Foundation early, as space is limited.

Hotel and Travel

Discounted hotel rooms at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort can be reserved in advance of a conference registration for a rate of $154 per night plus taxes. The hotel room block is available through September 13, 2015, but will sell out early; attendees are encouraged to reserve a room online or call (800) 832-2025 and ask for the NSPF/WAHC rate.

About the World Aquatic Health™ Conference

This leading global aquatic research forum is tailored for people involved in all aspects of aquatics, those affiliated with aquatic facilities, pool and spa industry, service providers, consultants, parks & recreation, water parks, manufacturers, academia, associations, builders, community organizations, distributors, hotels, government, health/medical, retail, and media. Watch the video.

About the National Swimming Pool Foundation®

We believe everything we do helps people live healthier lives. Whether it's encouraging more aquatic activity, making pools safer, or keeping pools open, we believe we can make a difference. NSPF® offers products and programs that are technically sound, convenient, and beautifully designed. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit located in Colorado Springs, CO., proceeds go to fund research and to help create swimmers. The National Swimming Pool Foundation has been keeping pools safe and open since 1965. Visit www.nspf.org or call 719-540-9119 to learn more.

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