WESTON, Mass. – The Regis College swimming and diving teams assisted with the Wellesley Stars special needs swim team a few weeks ago.

Members of the Pride helped the Stars with techniques such as starts, turns, streamlines and finishes.

Senior swimmer Mike Panagiotakos (Methuen, Mass.) a two sport athlete at Regis and a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Mass. had this to say about the experience.

"The swim team's experience in the pool is definitely one that will be remembered by all the participants. I know that every member on our team was excited to help and have fun with the Wellesley Stars. Naturally, some people may get nervous about lending an extra hand to go above and beyond for those who might need a little more help but the whole Wellesley Stars program made the event fun loving and very educational."

"The Regis swimmers, including myself, got an inside look on what some people have to struggle through every day and how hard these individuals work. Sports can be a great bridge to connect with people who are different from you. I know that finding similarities is a lot easier than people think if you take the time to try and relate no matter how different people's personalities are or where they come from. It is really something special to come into an environment with strangers but leave as friends knowing that you will forever share a beautiful memory."

"We loved helping out the Wellesley Stars perfect their strokes in the water and the swimmers here will always be welcome to them coming back. We were able to learn a lot and gain so much awareness with them joining us in the pool."