Unleashed Brands, known for its dynamic portfolio that lets children soar through the air at Urban Air Adventure Park and build strength at The Little Gym, is now making a splash by diving into the aquatic realm. The company has announced its acquisition of Water Wings Swim School. This is a year-round swim institution dedicated to providing swim instruction for children and adults.
Expanding Horizons: From Airborne Adventures to Aquatic Skills
With this strategic move, Unleashed Brands broadens its youth enrichment offerings to include essential water safety and swimming skills. Michael Browning, Jr., Founder and CEO of Unleashed Brands, emphasized the significance of this addition, stating,
“The acquisition of Water Wings represents an exciting step forward for Unleashed Brands as we expand into the swim category.”
He further highlighted the alignment with the company’s mission to equip kids with confidence, critical life skills, and a lifelong love of learning and growth.
Founded in 2003 by Avi and Tracy Shafshak, Water Wings Swim School has built a strong reputation for excellence in swim education and water safety. The school offers a robust curriculum designed for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Lessons range from infants as young as 3 months to adults. Programs include group and private lessons, recreational swim teams, baby pool time, swim camps, and more.
The Lifesaving Skill: Why Learning to Swim Matters
Adding Water Wings Swim School to Unleashed Brands isn’t just about fun in the pool—it’s about providing children with a critical, lifesaving skill. Drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death for children under four. Consequently, early swim education is not just beneficial, but essential. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), participation in formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by as much as 88% for young children.
Water Wings Swim School has long been dedicated to water safety and confidence-building. It offers structured lessons that teach kids not just how to swim, but also how to navigate aquatic environments safely. Lessons range from developing breath control and floating skills to mastering swim strokes. They prepare children for both recreational and emergency situations.
Michael Browning, Jr., CEO of Unleashed Brands, emphasized the importance of this skill, saying, “Swimming is not only a fun activity but also an essential, lifesaving skill, and we’re proud to add Water Wings to our platform of brands serving families.”
By integrating Water Wings into its youth enrichment portfolio, Unleashed Brands is ensuring that children can gain water safety skills alongside other developmental activities. This makes swimming as accessible and essential as learning to read or ride a bike.
A Comprehensive Approach to Youth Enrichment
Unleashed Brands’ portfolio now encompasses a diverse range of activities that cater to various aspects of a child’s development. From the thrill of aerial adventures at Urban Air Adventure Park to the foundational physical skills developed at The Little Gym, the company has been at the forefront of providing enriching experiences. The inclusion of Water Wings adds a vital component to this mix. It emphasizes the importance of water safety and swimming proficiency.
Avi Shafshak, who will continue to lead Water Wings as Brand President under the Unleashed Brands platform, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He stated, “Unleashed Brands’ proven platform and commitment to growth align perfectly with our vision for Water Wings.” He also highlighted the potential to expand reach and positively impact more children and families with lifesaving swim instruction.
As Unleashed Brands continues to grow, its commitment to providing safe, fun, and enriching environments for children remains steadfast.
