Gold Medalist Valerio Swims with the Marlins!

   At 7:00 am on June 8th, swimmers from the Rockford Marlins Swim Club gathered at the Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club to begin their summer training program.  It was cold and rainy, but the weather did not deter them.  This was the day that they would have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with Olympic Gold medallist, Melanie Valerio.  Valerio was in town to compete in the Rockman Triathlon and graciously agreed to train with and share some of her experiences with the Rockford Marlins.  Later that same day the Marlins welcomed Valerio to their afternoon practice where she demonstrated freestyle techniques and form.  The Marlins were thrilled to meet Melanie and presented her with a Marlins jacket and necklace to commemorate the occasion.