Senate honors Sussex beach lifeguards for national victory

The Delaware Senate recently hosted members of the Sussex County Lifesaving Association to recognize their groundbreaking achievement in winning the 2024 United States Lifesaving Association National Championship.

During the session at Legislative Hall in Dover, Sen. Russ Huxtable, D-Lewes, presented a tribute commending the SCLA’s beach lifeguards, who made history as the first team outside of California or New Jersey to claim the national title. The win marked a major milestone for Delaware, elevating the state’s presence in competitive lifesaving sports.

A group of SCLA lifeguards traveled to the state capital to accept the honor in person. As Huxtable read his tribute, the Senate chamber erupted in applause, celebrating the team’s dedication and success.

“This is a proud moment for Delaware,” Huxtable said. “The SCLA has not only brought national recognition to our beaches, but has also set a new standard of excellence in lifesaving sport.”

Following the tribute, SCLA President Matt Farlow addressed the Senate, expressing the team’s gratitude. “On behalf of all the SCLA lifeguards, we'd like to say we are extremely honored by this recognition,” Farlow said. “We’re very proud to make the First State first in lifesaving sport, and we will do everything we can to maintain our title in California this August.”

The SCLA’s victory highlights both their athleticism and their commitment to safety along Delaware’s coast.