Pool Parties and Group Rentals

People rolling around the pool in the inflatable hamster balls. — Students racing in hamster balls

Established as a tradition in the 1970s, Florida panhandle schools, churches, and community groups continue to bring youths to the UWF swimming pool to celebrate milestones or reward outstanding behavior and accomplishments.

The UWF Aquatic Center is available on a limited basis for group rentals. All rental requests must be submitted to the Aquatic Director at least 2 weeks prior to the requested rental date. Rental rates vary depending on group classification, size, and time at the facility and include access to the pool and locker rooms.

Important party information and descriptions

All party participants receive an explanation of the rules, and, for those who wish to swim in the deep water or use the diving boards, a swim test. To pass the UWF swim test successfully the participant must be able to: 1. have the ability to swim 25 yards with their face in the water and breathing rhythmically, 2. have the ability to rotate onto their back, maintain a back float for at least 5 seconds, and rotate back onto their stomach in a swimming posture without stopping or touching the bottom, and 3. show comfort in deep water. Swim tests are limited to one test per participant each day.

There is an additional height requirement (4’10” minimum) for 3M diving board use.

Life jackets are available on the pool deck at no additional charge. Weak and non-swimmers including those in life jackets must remain in the shallow recreational area. All minors are required to be under the supervision of a parent or guardian while in the facility. Parents and guardians must remain within an arm's length of their minor children who are weak or non-swimmers and without a life jacket.

For more information on small pool parties, e-mail our Aquatic Director, Nancy Quina, at nquina@uwf.edu or call 850.474.2497. Inclement weather may require all parties to exit the water until the all clear signal is given. The UWF Aquatic Center does not refund money.

Standard Party

$90 non-refundable reservation fee required one week prior to party date to reserve your spot.
On the day of the event, $5/person ($4.65 + $.035 tax) Entrance fee - swimming or spectating.
Two-hours of pool-filled fun with a Games Coordinator.
Reserved space for refreshments.
Diving boards included (successful completion of swim test required) as events and space permit.

Inflatable Obstacle Course Premium Party

On your mark, get set, splash through this fun-filled, two-hour, deep-water, floating obstacle course party.

$100 non-refundable reservation fee required one week prior to party date to reserve your spot.
On the day of the event, $375 (plus $28.13 tax) for 10 children with $15 for each additional child over the limit.
Party participants must be at least six (6) years old and able to successfully complete UWF's swim test.
Reserved space for refreshments.
Diving boards included (successful completion of swim test required) as events and space permit.

Log Rolling Premium Party

Have a party like no other you have experienced! This party offers an introduction to the great American sport of log rolling. Log rolling party participants gain endless rewards as they remain atop the log for longer and longer periods. Parents, don’t tell the kids, but this two-hour sports party promotes balance, leg and core strength, and cardiovascular endurance.

$100 non-refundable reservation fee required one week prior to party date to reserve your spot.
On the day of the event, $280 (plus $21.00 tax) for 10 children with $15 for each additional child over the limit.
Available to all ages and skill levels.
Reserved space for refreshments.
Diving boards included (successful completion of swim test required) as events and space permit.

Large Group Rentals

For large group rentals, customized fee estimates are available to fit your aquatic needs! Contact the Aquatic Administrative Office by calling 850.474.2609 or emailing nquina@uwf.edu or aquatics@uwf.edu to discuss your options and needs for a large group rental. Inclement weather may require all parties to exit the water until the all clear signal is given. The UWF Aquatic Center does not refund money.

Kids posing for a picture together in the pool — Kids enjoying the Aquatic Center

Tips for a Safe and Fun Party Experience:

Safety Protocols

Before getting in the water, an explanation of the pool rules is given to set the tone for your event.
Coast Guard approved life jackets are available for non-swimmers.
Passing a 25-yard swim test is required to use the diving boards. The swim test includes swimming with your face in the water and being able to maintain a back float for at least 5 seconds.
Swimmers who are uncomfortable in deep water are restricted to the shallow recreational area of the pool. This includes life jacket wearers.
4'10" is the minimum height required to use the high diving board.
Blow-up floats should not be used to support weak or non-swimmers and are not allowed in the facility.
Lightning may require all swimmers to exit the pool water until the storm has passed.
Lifeguard staff are there to promote safety and respond in an emergency. Follow their directions.
Glass containers, chewing gum, and hard candies are not allowed in the pool area.

Food and Beverage

Please leave chewing gum and hard candies at home.
Personal grills are allowed in the Sun Yard.
No alcoholic beverages are permitted.
Coolers are welcome.
Refrain from using glass containers.
Trash receptacles are on deck for waste disposal.

Reservations and Payment

Reservations are required and advanced bookings are encouraged.
Contact the Aquatic Administration at 850.474.2609 or nquina@uwf.edu to verify availability and costs.
Prepayment of non-refundable reservation fees are required.
Payments for the remaining balance of fees are accepted on the day of your event.
We accept cash, checks made payable to UWF, and credit cards.