Going swimmingly: Hampton shows appreciation for pool members

As back-to-school shopping picks up, families return from their getaways and college students travel back to their dorms, kids try to soak up the last of their summer during August.

Hampton Community Pool’s annual Member Appreciation Day took place on Aug. 14. The night of swimming offered music from DJ Rick Wirth, a chance to win a free membership for the 2025 pool season and a character visit from Ariel, the Little Mermaid.

Matthew Hahn, Hampton’s program, marketing and events organizer, put the plans in place to make the evening occur.

“If it’s something that the community enjoys,” Hahn said, “then I’m happy to do it.”

Members flocked to the pool, utilizing it in multiple ways. Kids played in the splash park and slid down the water slide. People jumped off the diving boards and parents tanned on lawn chairs as their children enjoyed the water.

Jamie Gendler and daughter Violet showed up to the event most excited to see Ariel.

“She’s a big princess fan,” Gendler said.

Gendler explained that events like this are great for the community.

“They bring people together. They give us something to do,” she said. “I am really grateful that the township does this.”

This was Hahn’s first year in the role of organizer, but he understood what it took to put on a community get-together.

He said that communication is the biggest factor in the planning process, whether it be making sure the activity is appealing, there are no other time conflicts and everyone is aware of the details.

“Weather is one thing we can’t control,” Hahn said. “It tends to be the one thing that I keep my fingers crossed about.”

Although Hahn is not a resident of Hampton, he lives in the North Hills and said he likes supporting fellow communities in the Pittsburgh area.

“It’s rewarding.” Hahn said. “It’s always nice when you can point to something — be it something physical, like if you built something or put on an event — to say that you helped bring it to fruition.”