top of page


Deep Dive - February | Strong Hearts, Deep Roots
February marks an important intersection for Evolutionary Aquatics. As we observe Black History Month alongside American Heart Month, this issue continues to ground our work in legacy and longevity. We’re honoring Black aquatic history and the trailblazers who paved the way. We’re also centering heart health and endurance in the present—because being in the water has always been our birthright. Inside this issue: February clinics focused on breath, balance, posture, and kicki
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Jan 271 min read


Deep Dive - January | New Year, Same EA Energy
There’s a lot to celebrate from 2025 at Evolutionary Aquatics. This issue highlights the work, the growth, and milestones like the first Mahogany Mermaid Classic, while looking ahead to a new year with excitement! Here’s what you’ll find inside: A look back at 2025 and the milestones we reached together Recap of the First Annual Mahogany Mermaids Classic January dates you’ll want to save, from swim meets to clinics A coach spotlight on Maya and the path that brought her to E
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Jan 21 min read


December Newsletter: From the Pool to the Community, We Showed Up
November was a powerful month at Evolutionary Aquatics, with swimmers reaching new levels in the pool and the community showing up in meaningful ways. From service projects to travel reflections and upcoming events, this issue captures the momentum and connection that continue to shape EA.
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Nov 30, 20251 min read


EA November Newsletter: Celebrating Progress, Representation, and Community
This month has been full of energy and growth at Evolutionary Aquatics. Our swimmers have been out in the water and in the community; training hard, completing triathlons and open-water races, and reaching new milestones in their swim journeys. The November issue highlights those achievements and the sense of pride, culture, and connection that make our swim family so special. Inside this issue: EA swimmers making waves in races and open-water events Progress and stories from
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Oct 30, 20251 min read


Evolutionary Aquatics with Share Charlotte
Share Charlotte interviews Nadine Ford, Director of Evolutionary Aquatics and Merre Bacot, open water and fitness swimmer about their love for EA's mission.
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Oct 27, 20251 min read


Mahogany Mermaids in Charlotte PinC Magazine
Thank you at Charlotte PinC Magazine for covering our swim club and telling our story !
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Dec 22, 20231 min read


EA Featured on WFAE: Teaching Black Adults to Swim with Confidence
We’re honored to be featured by WFAE for the work we’re doing to help more Black adults learn to swim with confidence. Evolutionary Aquatics was built on the belief that the water belongs to all of us. In this story, you’ll meet a few of the faces and voices behind EA who are changing what swimming looks like in Charlotte and beyond. Read the full story on WFAE
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Oct 17, 20231 min read


EA is asked: "What is the Best Athletic Swimsuit?" by New York Magazine!
Evolutionary Aquatics' coaches give their input on recommended women's swimwear. Explore insights from our coaches below and access the complete article here .
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Aug 7, 20231 min read


Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Jul 31, 20220 min read


EA in Charlotte Observer News
Nadine Ford, Director of Evolutionary Aquatics, educates Charlotte Observer News on the history of black swimming and the importance of diversity and inclusion in aquatic spaces. Click the video above for the full story.
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Mar 17, 20221 min read


WCNC speaks with EA about equity in aquatic spaces
WCNC speaks with Ruby Durham about the history of black swimming and EA's efforts to address disparities in aquatic spaces. Watch the full story by clicking the video above.
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Oct 1, 20211 min read


Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Apr 19, 20210 min read


WBTV features Mahogany Mermaids
WBTV On Our Side features Mahogany Mermaids and their efforts to break the myth that "black people don't swim". Check out the full video here.
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Apr 12, 20211 min read


Connie Oliphant shares her love of swimming with Southern Magazine
We’re grateful to see Connie Oliphant highlighted in Yahoo Lifestyle. At 81, Connie brings a lifetime of experience to the Mahogany Mermaids Swim Club, from swimming on her college team to becoming one of Charlotte’s first Black physical education teachers. Her love for the water and her years of coaching continue to inspire new generations of Black swimmers. In this piece, Connie talks about what drew her to the Mermaids, why community matters in the pool, and how swimming
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Apr 4, 20211 min read


Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Nov 30, 20200 min read


Black Kids Swim speak with EA about swimming + hair
Black Kids Swim speaks with EA about reclaiming aquatics spaces and addresses ways to care for your hair while swimming. Check out the full article .
Evolutionary Aquatics Team
Jun 30, 20191 min read
bottom of page


















































