Michael Phelps links up with Ravens to provide swimming lessons for players
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Two weeks ago, Humphrey posted a video on social media featuring several teammates asking Phelps for lessons since a number of players did not know how to swim. Phelps responded that he was down to help, and the swimming G.O.A.T. was in Owings Mills, Maryland, this week to make it happen.
After taking a tour of the Ravens' new aquatic center and checking out practice with his 7-year-old son, Beckett, and franchise great Ray Lewis, Phelps got to watch some players take part in a diving contest and a swimming race, then it was time to get down to business.
Those who wanted help learning to swim received lessons from the 23-time Olympic gold medalist and members of the Michael Phelps Foundation, which provides learn-to-swim classes to help prevent drowning and raise self-esteem and wellness. Players used pool noodles and kickboards to improve their skills and build confidence in the water.
"If I have to swim less than 20 yards, I could survive somehow because I could doggy paddle," said Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith. "But as far as actually swimming and knowing how to breathe and things of that nature, honestly, it was my first time. It was really cool. It was really solid, some of the lessons they gave me. I feel a little more confident."
To thank Phelps, a Baltimore native and a big Ravens fan, for his help, the team made a $100,000 donation to his foundation.
"I didn't know what I was getting into. I had no idea what their comfort level was," Phelps said via the Ravens website. "When I see the guys in there and some of the guys who are literally working on floating and breathing, and they're focused on paying attention to those details, it shows their vulnerability, especially when they're uncomfortable.
"It was a special day. Racing some of the fellas in the 25 [meter]. My son raced some of the guys. It was a great day. I truly hope they learned something, hopefully got some confidence, and hopefully can transition into something else."
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