Our Lifeguards: Learn More About the Aquatics Team!

If you’ve visited our pool, you’ve most likely met a few of our lifeguards. We sat for a quick chat to help you learn a little more about them!

Why did you decide to work at Manassas Park Community Center and Signal Bay Waterpark?

“Before I was old enough to become a lifeguard, I went to go hang out at Signal Bay during the summer. I loved it, and became a lifeguard as soon as I could.” –Gigi, Lifeguard

“I was working at a different facility when my friend recruited me to work at MPCC. He sold me on the flexible hours, higher pay, and great work culture/boss. After I graduated college I left to work in an office, but I immediately missed the daily variety and the hands-on environment. So I came back full-time, and here I am!”  –Grace, Aquatics Specialist

“The community center is very close to where I live, so I would come every day to work out and play basketball. One time, my little brother wanted to go swimming, so we hung out in the pool area. He saw a sign that said ‘we’re always hiring for lifeguards!’ and told me, ‘you should work here!’ I told him I didn’t know how to swim, and he said ‘so?’ So I taught myself to swim and became a lifeguard!” –Luis, Head Lifeguard

“I was already a lifeguard at a different pool, and was looking to work year-around. I came to Manassas Park Community Center to attend my sister’s baby shower and smelled chlorine as I was walking through the hallway. So I knew there must be a pool nearby! I went to the front desk to ask for an application, and before I knew it I had a job.” –Nicole, Head Lifeguard

“You [Grace] came to my school during lunch and gave me a flyer! I have always been into swimming, so becoming a lifeguard was a natural decision.” –Amayah, Lifeguard

How many years have you been a lifeguard?

Grace, Aquatics Specialist -6

Ryleigh, Lifeguard – 2

Gigi, Lifeguard – 3

Luis, Head Lifeguard – 2.5

Owen, Lifeguard – 2

Nicole, Head Lifeguard – 12

Amayah, Lifeguard  – 11 months

What was the most surprising thing about being a lifeguard?

“I was clearing out the skimmer baskets at Signal Bay one time, and it was stuffed FULL of FROGS!” –Gigi, Lifeguard

“I’m surprised at how calm the pool usually is; I think I was expecting there to be more daily first aid and rescues!” – Amayah, Lifeguard

“That one day I would end up dancing around in a shark costume during a shift.” –Owen, Lifeguard.

“One time at my other job, we found skunks in the pool!” –Ryleigh, Lifeguard

“I was surprised by the rush of adrenaline you feel when responding to an emergency, and how it feels to help someone.” – Nicole, Head Lifeguard

#manassasparkshark! Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @manassasparkaquatics

If you could give one piece of advice to your past self, what would it be?

“Draw Better.” –Shelby, Daughter of ‘The Boss.’

“Stay motivated in school!” – Gigi, Lifeguard

“Take a moment, close your eyes, and smile.” – Luis, Head Lifeguard

“Don’t worry so much about what people think of you! Just have fun and be yourself.” –Grace, Aquatics Specialist

 “Don’t procrastinate so much!” –Amayah, Lifeguard

What is your greatest accomplishment?

“In volleyball, I skipped JV and went straight to Varsity!” –Ryleigh, Lifeguard

“Becoming” the #ManassasParkShark. Also, teaching myself to swim.” –Luis, Head Lifeguard

“Choosing and pursuing a career, and achieving an associate’s degree.” –Nicole, Head Lifeguard

“Maintaining a 4.0 GPA all four years of High School.” – Amayah, Lifeguard

If you’re interested in joining our team, contact Grace Cruz at g.cruz@manassasparkva.gov. We offer competitive pay, free lifeguard training, and flexible hours to accommodate school. We hope to hear from you!