LOUIS ARRUDA

2018 INDUCTION TO THE RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC HALL OF FAME

              Louis’s interest in swimming began very early in his life.  As he progressed through swimming lessons at the Kent county YMCA, he became a member of their swim team and steadily began to advance his development as a competitive swimmer.  After a short time at the YMCA, Louis Sought further opportunities by joining the Rams Swim Club, through his sophomore year at Bishop Hendricken High School, where a solid foundation was laid for significant success in his future form the guidance of coach Dave Hanson.  During his senior year a a captain for the Hendricken Hawks, Louis achieved All-State accolades in the 200 freestyle and the 100 butterfly, and went on to become the 2001 Co-Swimmer of the Year for the Rhode Island Interscholastic League Coaches and Officials Association.

            His decision to attend Springfield College led to further advancements and achievements as a result of Coach John Taffe’s direction.  In 2002, Louis was named the New England Women and Men’s Athletic conference (NEWMAC) men’s swimming Athlete of the Year and received the 2002 Springfield College Charles A. Sylvia Freshman Male Athlete of the Year Award.  He was selected as team captain during his junior and senior years and was fortunate to establish several school records during his tenure in the 200 free, 100 fly, 500 free, and was a valuable component with his teammates to establish records in the 200 free relay, 400 medley relay, 400 free relay, and the 800 freestyle relay.   As his performances continued to improve, Louis qualified for and competed in the NCAA Division III National Swimming and Diving Championships in his sophomore, junior, and senior years as a member of the Springfield Pride.  During his NCAA attendance as a junior and senior, he achieved All American status in the 200 freestyle, while achieving Honorable Mention in the 200 butterfly; and, as a senior in the 200 free relay, 400 medley relay, and the 800 free relay.  In 2005, he received Springfield College’s Outstanding Male Individual Athlete Award, closing out an outstanding Career.

            After a brief hiatus from competitive swimming, Louis returned to the sport in the fall of 2006, by joining Bluefish Swim Club under the direction of Charles “Chuck” Batchelor.  Being part of this elite program led to further advances in Louis’s post collegiate career.  He was fortunate to qualify for and participate in several elite competitions across the country.  It was at one such event, the Charlotte Ultra Swim, where Louis qualified for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in the 100 meter freestyle.  In the trials Louis again lowered his personal best time to 51.41 and finished 88th overall in the event.  It was truly an amazing experience to have competed amongst the best in the country, and one that has continued to fuel his passion for staying involved with the sport.