How Non-Swimmers Learn Through Play with Ron Usher

Navigating Neva

In this episode, we dive into Otterball — a revolutionary, inclusive water game created by veteran coach and adapted PE teacher Ron Usher.

With over 50 years of experience in swimming, water polo, and aquatic education, Ron developed Otterball to bridge the “aquatic desert” — the gap where teens and non-swimmers have few opportunities to learn or participate.

Through a progressive flotation system, players start with full flotation (life jackets) and gradually reduce support as their confidence and swimming ability grow. The result? Everyone plays from day one — no one sits out.

Ron’s method combines the joy of play with real-world swimming and survival skills. From back floating and breaststroke kicks to teamwork and confidence, Otterball redefines what it means to learn to swim.

Highlights:

• How Otterball blends swimming, water polo, and fun for all ability levels
• Why Ron calls ages 9–18 the “aquatic desert” — and how this program fills that gap
• The progressive flotation system that transforms fear into confidence
• How aquatic centers can use Otterball to build inclusion and revenue

Whether you’re an aquatic professional, coach, or parent, this episode will change the way you think about teaching non-swimmers — and show that everyone belongs in the water.

https://playotterball.com/

https://ronusher.net/

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