The Weyburn Artistic Swimming Club has named Shelley Dammann their 2020-21 Volunteer of the Year.

When Dammann's daughter Megan began synchronized swimming in 2010, the local swim club was still known as 'Weyburn Synchro Stars'. 

"WASC would like to recognize the amazing contributions of one of our hardest working volunteers, Shelley Dammann," the Club announced on social media earlier this week.

The release said from the beginning, Dammann was willing to roll up her sleeves and learn all she could to help with coaching, and wearing a number of other hats, too.

"She began learning about Artistic swimming as a recreational coach. Her patience, warmth and humor made her a natural. With her increasing skill and knowledge, she was soon receiving her NCCP Comp Intro certification and Weyburn was blessed with a dedicated 12U and Limited Stream competitive coach."

"Shelley's ability to stay so organized and her willingness to help has had her wearing many hats over the years! She has coordinated our club “store”, ensuring we are always fully stocked with caps, nose clips and bathing suits. She keeps our athletes covered, ordering new suits when material starts to wear thin and makes sure team suits arrive in time to prevent Coach meltdowns."

Dammann took over the role of Club Manager from the Head Coach, and has been, "a fantastic liaison with our pool facility manager, always keeping a positive relationship".

The release also stated that Dammann, "has that uncanny ability to know everyone, she remembers everyone’s name! People are drawn to her because she makes them feel so comfortable and welcome. That special ability brought our club together in some tough times."

Dammann took on the role as Club President in 2019 and rebuilt a strong foundation, which has carried forward with a fantastic, fun, and caring Board of Directors.

"Even with all the commitment at our local club level, Shelley recognized the importance of being involved at a Provincial level. She assumed the role of Grassroots Chair for one year and was a strong voice representing rural clubs provincially. Always one to help where needed, Shelley has accepted the role of Nominations and Awards Chair Provincially. So not sure how we will keep this a secret!"

Now, Dammann moves on as Megan will be graduating soon and moving on from the club. 

"We will miss your laughter, your leadership, your caring and Tracey will miss your knowing every parent's name!"