Prince William has been named patron of the English Schools’ Swimming Association (ESSA).

The Prince follows the family tradition of supporting aquatic sport, with his grandmother Her Majesty the Queen, patron of the Amateur Swimming Association.

"Having swum and played water polo throughout my days at school and university, I am well aware of the great benefits and pleasure that can be derived from them.” said the Prince.

"ESSA enables children all over the country to share in these benefits, teaching them to swim - and swim to the highest standards - and generally to enjoy their time in the water.

"As patron, therefore, I look forward to doing whatever I can to help children and young people in England become more physically active and healthy through fostering their enjoyment of swimming, diving and water polo; activities from which everyone can get great satisfaction all through life."

Prince William represented Eton College at ESSA events and continued his interest in aquatic sport, playing water polo while studying at St Andrews University.

ESSA was founded in 1949, and exists to encourage school children to learn to swim and compete at various levels; for their school, their district and country. ~

Swimming, diving, water polo and synchronised swimming are included in ESSA programme, and cover both secondary and primary school age children over 12 geographical divisions.

-ENDS-

For more information contact ASA Media Assistant Stephanie West on 01509 632236, or e-mail stephanie.west@swimming.org

The Amateur Swimming Association is the English National Governing Body for Swimming, Diving, Water Polo, Open Water, and Synchronised Swimming. It organises competition throughout England, establishes the Laws of the Sport and operates comprehensive certification and education programmes for Teachers, Coaches and Officials as well as its renowned Learn To Swim Awards scheme. The ASA supports 1,600 affiliated swimming clubs through a National/Regional/County structure. The ASA aims to ensure everybody has an opportunity to learn to swim.

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