The Greek
Lifesaving Sports Association joined the
International Federation of Swimming Teachers' Association
Greece 24.2.2020. The Greek Lifesaving Sports
Association (GLSA) that was established to implement water safety and
lifesaving sport activities, became formally member of the International Federation of
Swimming Teachers' Association (IFSTA) for Greece.
Since 1976, the International Federation of Swimming
Teachers’ Associations (IFSTA)
has driven a commitment to ensuring the highest quality qualifications and
swimming lessons are provided across the world. Initially starting with just 10
member countries in 1976, Greece became the 29th country through GLSA.
Learning should be fun, lifelong and for all.
Especially when it is about the preservation of public health from injuries.
Lifesaving sport is the only sport that teaches you how to save a life in and
out of the water. In a naval nations such as Greece, such knowledge is necessary.
For lifeguard training there are lifeguard agencies. For swimming teaching,
there are swimming clubs. Greece was lucking a body that would prepare
civilians in how to cope emergency situations through participation in sport.
GLSA was founded to fill in this gap.
"A group of visionary individuals felt obliged to
serve Greece by founding GLSA. In its short timeline of history, lifesaving sport
had several shining moments that made participants loved it and a few dark
moments that placed it in comma. We felt responsible for the sport's resurrection",
said Dr. Stathis Avramidis, GLSA President, "father" of Greek
lifesaving sport and Academic Fellow of Applied Lifeguarding and Lifesaving
Sport in the University of Athens. GLSA Vice President, Eleftheria
Avramidou added:
"We are honored to represent Greece in this international family. From our
early university years in the UK, the Swimming Teacher's Association and its
staff have been always quality, fast, positive, kind and helpful. We are
grateful for the past that molded us as professionals and optimistic for the
present and future ahead of us. We thank the IFSTA President, Dave Candler, for
trusting our vision!"
GLSA is composed by prestigious scientists (academics, scientists), numerous volunteers, honorary members (world recognized authorities), supporters (Olympic and world winners). To achieve its two aims,
GLSA will collaborate with numerous international water safety, swimming and
lifesaving sport organizations.
Shortly there will be announced lectures, seminars and
lifesaving sport competitions. Membership is open to anyone regardless of
nationality, gender, age or affiliation to those that agree with GLSA's aims
and objectives for advancing water safety and lifesaving sport. To celebrate
its establishment, GLSA permits membership for clubs and individuals at no cost
for a limited time. Each member gets a free Membership Certificate. For more information
about GLSA and registration click here.
