Community rallies to save the season for swim club after San Ramon pool closes

SAN RAMON, Calif. (KGO) -- An East Bay community is pitching in to try and save the season for a swim club in San Ramon. They were told their pool is now closed.

For nearly 30 years, the Aqua Bears have practiced and held meets at the San Ramon Golf Club pool.

Tuesday was supposed to be the first day of swim practice. "First day of practice is just like, you get to see all your friends," swim team member Devyn Rivera said.

Only the maintenance man got to touch the water on Tuesday. On Friday, the Aqua Bears were told by email that the pool has been shut down because it's no longer financially sustainable.

Swim club president Sarah Eddings met with the property manager to see if they can just use the pool for three more months.

It didn't go well.

When asked if they can do something about it, Eddings responded, "They cannot. They work for someone and they are doing what they are told to do."

The golf club is managed by Western Golf Properties in Southern California.

CEO Robert Heath was reluctant to speak to ABC7 News, but he did say, "We are aware of the swim team's situation. I told the team president any parents with concerns can email me directly."

The major of San Ramon is not happy about this playing out.

"To have literally three days notice as appalling. I was just appalled at the fact that they gave them no true notice," Mayor Bill Clarkson said.

He said the city staff has already met with the Aqua Bears to see if they can schedule time at the two city pools.

"I hope we can see each other and it would be at the swimming pool," swimmer Mia Rivera said.

It's a glimmer of hope for the kids.