New Lights Brighten Larry Hart Pool

 

At the Larry Hart Pool, swimmers, divers, water polo players, and coaches will not have to worry about sub-par lighting anymore. New pool lights were installed in the ceiling, vastly improving visibility for the athletes and coaches who use the space.  

Since the pool opened in 1979, the lights have operated poorly. People have found it difficult to watch aquatic events, in person and over live stream, because of the limited visibility. Likewise, the lights make it difficult to record footage. For instance, the Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Water Polo teams rely on being able to take videos during practices and games, but, until now, they haven’t been able to do so because of poor lighting.  

The new lighting fixtures drastically change the pool’s atmosphere, making it a warmer and more welcoming facility. At the time of the old pool light’s installation, “they were not the proper lighting that was needed,” said Head Swim Coach and Aquatic Director Ms. Sara Massa. “The old pool lights had to be repaired constantly.”

The installation occurred during winter break, so the swim and dive team wouldn’t have to miss practices due to repairs The crew completing the installation drained the entire pool and removed part of the building to allow building equipment onto the deck.  

Members of the Choate swim team greatly appreciated the update. “The new lights allow me and the other coaches to see and correct stroke techniques so much better,” said Ms. Massa. Similarly, Martha Chessen ’22, a backstroker, said that the bright lights help her “focus more on swimming” rather than being “tired from the school day.” Chessen said that the old pool lights created a “dungeon-like” atmosphere. 

The lighting can be adjusted depending on the event, water polo, swimming, or diving. In addition, one can regulate how much of the pool area needs to be illuminated, which makes it easier for spectators to see the scoring board.