Hello! My name is Jeffrey McClary. I have been swimming competitively for a little over four years and I aspire to be a college swimmer! I myself and many other young men in my area who are high school swimmers and divers have desires of being able to compete at the collegiate level without having to move so far away from our hometowns. However, the college right at our front door, the University of West Florida (UWF), have a successful women‘s swim and dive team. Unfortunately, the Argonauts lack the existence of a men's swim and dive team, thus forcing aspiring athletes like myself to either abandon  our passions or to leave our community, family, and friends behind to travel to options farther away.

The establishment of a men’s swim and dive team at UWF will not only benefit high school boys in the Pan Handle (or other near by regions in the Gulf) who wish to swim or dive in college while staying closer to home, but will also expand the university's athletic department by expanding its offerings, attracting a diverse group of talented athletes, and reinforcing its commitment to inclusive sports programs and athletic clubs!

The great state of Florida is renowned for its achievements in swimming and diving; however, UWF remains one of the few state universities without a men's swim and dive program. This oversight excludes countless young, talented swimmers and divers who could represent the university with pride and distinction.

Where resources are concerned, UWF already possesses a well maintained, state-of-the-art aquatic facility and the administrative groundwork to support a swim and dive program. The addition of this team would require focused recruitment and a minor budget adjustment but would yield long-term benefits, both for its attendees and the broader sports community.

This initiative not only aligns with UWF’s growth strategy but also makes the institution more attractive to prospective students, bolstering enrollment numbers and diversity. The introduction of a men’s swim and dive team can serve as a profound testament to UWF’s dedication to student needs and athletic excellence.

Let us pave the way for future generations of swimmers and divers to have the opportunity to chase their dreams without leaving the warmth and support of their home communities. With this, I’m also achieving my dreams of not only to be a pro swimmer, but to also inspire millions of people of all ages to pursue their dreams! Sign this petition to encourage the University of West Florida to establish the Argonauts men’s swim and dive team, and make an impactful difference for current and prospective students alike!