Contact: Rob Butcher, U.S. Masters Swimming
Phone: (941) 256-8767; email: rob@usms.org

U.S. Masters Swimming Opens National Headquarters

July 15, 2009 – U.S. Masters Swimming is pleased to announce it has officially opened its national headquarters. Located in the historic Pagoda building along the bayfront in Sarasota, Fla., the mailing address is 655 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236. The phone number is (941) 256-8767.

For nearly 40 years, USMS has existed as a “virtually run” organization with staff and contractors working remotely. The opening of a headquarters marks another significant chapter for the organization, which will also be celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2010.

“On behalf of all the volunteers who have given so much over the years and continue to do so in fulfilling our mission of promoting adult health, fitness, wellness and competition through aquatics, I am extremely pleased that this milestone has been accomplished. Our headquarters and the synergies it achieve will allow us to better serve our members, take advantage of new opportunities and enhance our image,” said U.S. Masters Swimming President Rob Copeland.

In February, the Board of Directors selected Sarasota as the location of the organization’s headquarters. USMS then looked at a number of potential office locations in Sarasota before entering into a long-term agreement with the City of Sarasota for the Pagoda building. The building was most recently home to the Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau, and previously the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. USMS renovated the Pagoda, and over the next few months will continue to add improvements while maintaining the heritage of the building. USMS national administration, member services and business operations will be located within the headquarters.

About U.S. Masters Swimming
U.S. Masters Swimming, founded in 1970, is a membership-operated national governing body that promotes adult health, fitness, wellness and competition through aquatics. It does so by partnering with more than 1,000 adult swim clubs across the country that offer swimming and fitness programs, promotes information via a bimonthly member magazine and www.usms.org, and sanctions and promotes pool, open water and virtual competitions. Nearly 50,000 adults are registered members of U.S. Masters Swimming. For more information, contact us at 655 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 or by phone at 941-256-USMS (8767).

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