Ever since Live Oak
’s new pool opened last march, it has been used almost around
the clock by many community groups.
Ever since Live Oak’s new pool opened last march, it has been used almost around the clock by many community groups.
On Saturday, it was finally properly christened.
Many former aquatics greats of the past were on hand to receive their blessing and be recognized on the Wall of Fame hung on the gym wall.
Even putting the titles up proved an adventure. But help came early Saturday morning from Della Maggiore Tile, which provided the man power and expertise.
“They’re the best of what Morgan Hill is all about,” said water polo coach Mack Haines, who also put in a lot time into the pool. “This still is a really close community. We have people come forward to help each other out. It is not just in water polo. That is a small cross section. You go across the board and see what incredible people have graduated from the high school and what pride they take in it.”
Ever since the original Live Oak pool opened in 1962 (now the Britton pool) and then the new one opened at the current location in 1975, many people have long looked forward to the opening.
“We started the planning six years ago and had three tries with the bond before we got the facility approved,” said Principal Rich Knapp. “Right now we have the best facility in the Tri-County League.”
Many people also await the new Sports and Aquatics Complex, which is about 18 months away, that will feature a full Olympic-size 50-meter pool.
“Seeing a quality aquatic program like Live Oak has produced out of a small city is impressive,:” said City Councilman Larry Carr, who played for Haines in his senior – Haines’ first in 1986. “It shows the support we have. We need to charge ahead.”
After the alumni water polo game that featured quick paced action, people caught up on old times during the reception at the Buddhist Temple.
