The 10th Annual Scott Kaplan Memorial Swim Event will take place on Thursday, May 19 from 7-9 p.m. at the GATI Pool, 1360 Tanyard Road, Sewell.
This annual swim event is held to celebrate the life of 2005 Gloucester Catholic High School graduate, Scott Kaplan, who was a four year member of the Rams Swim Team.
Scott, the only child of Steve and Rose Kaplan of Blackwood, died a month after graduating from Gloucester Catholic.
At the Tri-County Conference Swimming and Diving Showcase, Scott won the 200 meter freestyle event every year of his high school career.
Gloucester Catholic principal Ed Beckett, who had the opportunity to teach Scott said, “He was an extraordinary young man. A champion swimmer, member of Student Council, and leader among his peers. He was also the curious kid in the class who taught himself German, was always available to tutor someone in science and put together study groups for AP English Lit. He was, quite simply, one of the most generous kids I’ve ever known.”
He also said that Scott’s untimely death left a hole in many hearts.
“But true to Scott’s spirit, his parents and friends have honored his memory through a swim-a-thon that results in the Scott Kaplan Memorial Scholarship Fund providing tuition assistance for college to graduating seniors from Gloucester Catholic,” Beckett said.
Scott’s mother, Rose, said that her son’s love for Gloucester Catholic and the Gloucester Catholic Swim Team is remembered and celebrated by this annual swim event.
“In its 10th year, the continued support demonstrates the special bonds from being a part of the Gloucester Catholic Family and we couldn’t be more thankful,” she said.
All proceeds from the swim event benefit the Scott Kaplan Memorial Fund. Donation is $20 or $10 for students, eighth grade and up. Swimmers and non-swimmers are welcome to attend.
Make checks payable to: “Gloucester Catholic Alumni” and mail to: Ed Brady, 501 Coach Road, Turnersville, NJ 08012 or email: Brady@taylorwiseman.com.