Mermaids happy just to compete

Synchronized swimmers enjoy national meet

The Southern Nevada Desert Mermaids didn't place in the top 10 at the Speedo Junior National Synchronized Swim Competition in Fort Collins, Colo., last month. They didn't even place in the top 20.

The team's exposure to the national circuit made the girls -- ages 7 to 17 -- ecstatically happy just to be there. After three years in operation, they were surprised when they qualified for the event. Instead of being disappointed at the event's outcome, the girls used the experience to motivate them, said member Heather Campbell, 14, a Green Valley resident.

"We were very surprised. We were hoping for it, but once we did it, it was a real awesome thing," Campbell said. "It was a new experience for all of us. It was really fun. All of us were definitely inspired. We can't wait to go to nationals again next year and do better."

Girls from all over the Las Vegas Valley practice in the deep end of the Las Vegas Municipal Pool, 431 E. Bonanza Road, for a minimum of 11 hours per week. The 20-member group is split into three teams, depending on skill and experience. The top team, with nine members, placed 26th out of 37 competing teams, some with close to 100 members. Individuals judged on figures, mandatory positions and postures in the water, placed in the top 50 percent of 300 swimmers, said Valerie Tassiello, president and one of the program's "founding mothers."

"As a young team, it shows them how far they can go," said Ann Rhoads, vice president of the club.

Nearly all of the members began synchronized swimming with the Las Vegas, Clark County and Henderson recreation programs. Many participate in their school's swim programs as well as other activities and academics.

Campbell quit competitive swimming at age 11 to take up the synchronized version. After diving and racing, she found her niche with the mixture of dance, music and sport.

"It's such a team sport. With swim team, it was kind of like on your own. You swim your own events," Campbell said. "You don't get to know everyone on your team."

Precision and discipline are required for the sport, but Tassiello and Rhoads agreed their daughters thrive on the workouts and competition.

"The girls love music and swimming, and to put it together, it's ballet in the water," Rhoads said.

"They have a whole thing going on under the water we're not aware of," Tassiello added.

Southern Nevada Desert Mermaids emerged in 2000 when girls wanted more out of synchronized swimming than what recreational programs couldn't offer -- competition. Seeing this, mothers researched the sport and recruited coaches Katie Tipton, Stephane Miermont and Mickey Sprott.

"They just wanted more. They have that competitive edge," Rhoads said. "They want to see how they measure up against other athletes."

"She wanted to grow as a swimmer," Tassiello said of her daughter, Lauren. "There's a bigger commitment."

Girls who can swim at least a lap can join the group. Members with gymnastics, dance or swimming background transfer the best into synchronized swimming, but most girls progress faster than their parents expect, said Sprott, coach for the beginning team. The beginning age is approximately 9 to 13.

Members of the competing Southern Nevada Desert Mermaids team are Katrina Brandhagen, Diana Care, Lauren Tassiello, Heather Campbell, Karli Farris, Katie Munoz, Leah Marley, Madison Martinet, Alexa Rhoads and Pamela Arriaga.

Those interested in the club can call 566-5156.


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