We are close to beginning another swim season and eagerly anticipate seeing old friends and fun at the pool. I wanted to share some sad news though, longtime coach from Briarcliff Sagamore, Thomas Benefield, passed away yesterday after a valiant battle with cancer. Thomas was one of a kind. A loving husband to his wife, Anna, incredible father to his two daughters, Corinne and Ramona; a beloved coach and teacher. They truly broke the mold with him. He embodied what summer league swimming is all about, always there with a positive attitude and encouragement for every swimmer, coach, or anyone he ever met on a pool deck. His mantra was, “Go Do Good”, I cannot think of a more fitting legacy for this dear friend to everyone, and a philosophy that we should all embrace.

Visitation and Celebration of Life @ Oak Grove United Methodist Church

Thursday, May 29th, 6-8pm: Visitation

Friday, May 30th, 2pm: Celebration of Life

From Thomas’ Family: We ask that everyone come dressed to represent your personal “Team Benefield” connection. If you knew Thomas, you were part of his Team; from Fernbank to Trinity, LHS to Druid Hills, The Barracudas to the Pangborn Piranhas, and obviously, Marvel or DC, feel free to represent that in your clothes, shoes and accessories. If you feel best in a tie, (or socks!) I can probably hook you up! We hope to see you there!

We are working on other ways to support his family and I can share those once they are finalized. If any other coaches or teams also wanted to kick off their seasons as superheroes in his honor, Please keep the whole Benefield family as well as his Barracuda extended family in your prayers. I will keep you posted on other donation opportunities once we have them.