HUNTINGTON BEACH : Diving Team Pools Funds for Boards

Marina High School’s diving team, which has no high-dive board and a low board in disrepair, hopes to raise thousands of dollars for new boards by the summer.

Because the school and Huntington Beach Union High School District don’t have the money to buy new boards and stands, members of the 22-member diving team and their parents are turning to the community to raise about $14,000 for the new boards, said Georganne Proulx, diving representative for Marina Aquatics Booster Club.

“We’ve been told the school or the district isn’t doing anything. . . . So we’re (buying) them and donating them to the school,” Proulx said.

The school’s diving pool has two low boards, one of which is in good condition, said diving coach Greg Price. The other needs replacement. The high dive was so worn out it was removed, Price said.

Principal Jim Keatingsaid replacing the diving boards has been a top priority. But the 30-year-old school is aging and money instead has been spent on replacing generators and re-roofing.

“The bottom line is (the money) will not come out of the general fund of our school or district,” he said.

Proulx said one parent has donated $1,000 and students have raised about $250. A silent auction and dinner is planned for May, but the group needs a place to hold it, she said.

Organizers hope to install the boards this summer and have the new boards ready for use by next February when the diving season begins, Proulx said.

With new boards, Proulx also said Marina High School could host diving meets again, which would boost school spirit and enable operation of a snack bar to help raise money for the booster club.

Meanwhile, the lack of a diving board means students must travel to other schools to practice.

Marie Vines, a diver for three years who hopes to land a college scholarship in the sport, said that to excel she needs a high dive for practice.

“I want to dive in college and get really good,” said Vines, who is among the top divers in the district. “But without the board, it’s kind of hard.”

Donations may be mailed to 4186 Shorebreak Drive, Huntington Beach, Calif. 92649 and checks made payable to Marina Aquatics Booster Club. More information is available by calling Proulx at (714) 893-1018.