ORLANDO SAVASTANO

1991 INDUCTION TO THE RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC HALL OF FAME

            Throughout his 30 years as a swimming official, Dr. Orlando “Savy” Savastano has been involved in many facets of officiating and water safety instruction.  He started his professional career in swimming in 1954 when he attended the National Red Cross Aquatic School in Massachusetts and again in 1955 in New Hampshire. Savy spent his summers of 1955 and 1956’s as Aquatic Director in Charlestown, R.I. and 1958 to 1960 as Pool Manager of the Kendbrin Swimming Club, Riverside, R.I. From 1960 to 1968 he developed and managed the summer aquatic programs at the Quidnessett Country Club in North Kingstown, R.I.

            In 1960 Savy received his doctorate degree from Boston University and since then he has used his academic expertise toward publishing articles in professional journals on topics dealing with aquatics and swimming officiating.  From 1961 to present Savy has developed and directed many swimming programs for children and adults for the Cranston, R.I.  Public Schools.  Most of the programs included the initiation of Red Cross swimming programs and the certification of water safety instructors.

            From 1971-1973 Savy was President of the Rhode Island Board of Approved Interscholastic Swimming Officials Association and has been a member of the board for 30 years.  He has contributed significantly toward the organization of competitive championship meets in Rhode Island, acting as Meet Director from 1983-1984 for the New England Interscholastic Championships.  In 1982 Savy received the Joseph L. Tracey Award for his outstanding contributions toward Rhode Island aquatics and Interscholastic swimming.