On Friday night, the Stony Brook community welcomed the pool back with a grand opening after six dry years.

After a collective plunge opened the event, students and faculty alike enjoyed splashing, diving, and cannon-balling throughout the night. A spontaneous game of water polo materialized and both David Jensen and Captain Linzee impressed with their goalkeeping skills. Mr. Winston defended with expected intensity and Mr. Van Buskirk and Mr. Riley fired a barrage of shots at Jensen, who was often up to the challenge.

It was surreal to see such life in a space that for a stretch has been vacant and deserted. Everyone who stepped into the Swanson Natatorium on Friday night observed the tangible blessing that the pool’s return has brought to our community.

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