Andrew said that the event shows FINA officials are valuing swimmers moreGETTY IMAGES
The sentiment among the athletes who participated in the third and final leg of the inaugural FINA Champions Swim Series "was consistent," as most believe professional swimming is "headed in the right direction," according to Robert General of the INDIANAPOLIS STAR. The event featured "multiple world-best performances, [a] crowd that nearly packed the west-end of the Indiana University Natatorium, light shows, music, over-the-top introductions" and even "monetary incentives." U.S. swimmer Hali Flickinger said, "It’s absolutely incredible. I’m beyond impressed with what FINA has done and I hope that this continues and it’s a stepping stone for USA Swimming and it’s incredible.” U.S. swimmer Michael Andrew: "The athletes still don’t understand how much value we bring to the table as competitors and entertainers. It’s cool to see that FINA and other organizations are starting to recognize that." FINA officials said that they "plan on continuing the series in the future, but wanted to gather feedback from athletes and coaches as they head into an Olympic year" in '20. That conversation began Saturday when FINA officials "met with 20 swimmers, who were asked to share their views and opinions about the development of the sport." Belgian swimmer Pieter Timmers said, “It’s a great step for professionalizing swimming" (INDYSTAR.com, 6/1).
