Dr. Avramidis’ Encyclopedia Receives British Honor
Athens, Greece, 25.06.2026. The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS), which enjoys the patronage of His Majesty King Charles III, honored Dr. Stathis Avramidis with the “William Henry Award” for his voluntary water safety contribution internationally through the publication of the landmark book "Life-guardians’ Encyclopedia: 45 Centuries of Drowning Prevention, Rescue, Treatment."
Named after the founder of the RLSS and one of the world's foremost pioneers of drowning prevention, the William Henry Award is bestowed upon individuals whose voluntary efforts significantly support the lifesaving movement, promote water safety, and strengthen the international community dedicated to saving lives in and around water.
Dr. Avramidis received the distinction for authoring a groundbreaking encyclopedia that chronicles forty-five centuries of drowning prevention, rescue, resuscitation, and aquatic safety. The publication highlights the achievements of hundreds of pioneers on drowning prevention, rescue, resuscitation, lifeguarding, lifesaving sport, aquatic education, and water safety from ancient civilizations to the modern era, preserving an invaluable heritage that might otherwise have been forgotten.
The encyclopedia has attracted international attention for its unique scope and scholarly contribution. Endorsed by the International Pierre de Coubertin Committee, the European, the Mediterranean and the International Lifesaving Federations, it serves as both a historical record and a source of inspiration for future generations. The author dedicated the book to his heroes, Dr Harald Vervaecke, ILS Secretary General and Greg Bonann, creator of the TV series Baywatch, who commented that it is a masterpiece and an elegant presentation of lifeguard history respectively.
Commenting on the honor, Dr. Avramidis said: "Αn award bearing the name of William Henry is deeply meaningful. I am humbled that my work has been considered worthy of recognition associated with his legacy. The award is not merely a personal achievement but also a recognition of the importance of preserving lifesaving history.”
Dr. Avramidis is the President of the Greek Lifesaving Sports Association, Secretary General of the Mediterranean Lifesaving Confederation, Teacher of Lifeguarding and Lifesaving Sport at Athens University, Every Child A Swimmer Committee Member of the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Through decades of service, he has contributed to water safety and lifesaving sport in numerous countries.
The distinction strengthens the international impact of the Life-guardians’ Encyclopedia and underscores the enduring importance of voluntary service in advancing drowning prevention, rescue, treatment, and water safety education worldwide.
You can freely download the encyclopedia here.
