Nicholls State University has a campus pool that is open to all students, faculty and staff.

Dr. J.J. Ayo Pool was taken over by Crawfish Aquatics in 2013. The university was considering filling the pool in because of a lack of usage. 

Crawfish Aquatics, a local swimming association that has branches in Thibodaux, Baton Rouge, Prairieview and Lafayette, stepped in and offered to take care of the running of the pool and its maintenance.

From 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., from March to October, Nicholls students, faculty and staff are welcome to use the pool. Anyone wishing to use the pool must present their Colonel Card.

The pool is also available for clubs and organizations to rent out for private events outside of the normal times that the pool is open.

OJ Messina, site director and head coach for Crawfish Aquatics at Nicholls, said that the pool can be used for a number of reasons.

“It’s up to each individual. Some people just want to come here and just lay by the pool and get tan because it’s very quiet here, not too many distractions going on. Some people do it for fitness. And some people come in just to kind of hang out with their friends and have fun,” Messina said.

Messina said the pool is heated, very large and peaceful, but few students utilize it, likely because they are unaware of its availability.

“I have grown up swimming in Louisiana, so I was aware Crawfish Aquatics has a Thibodaux location…I use the pool six times a week…for exercise, trying to stay in swimming shape. I believe the pool is a great resource [and valuable tool] on campus…I also see other athletes, such as cross country and soccer, use the pool as well. I think we all use it for different reasons, but it serves a great purpose,” Owen Martin, sophomore allied health major from New Orleans, said.

Messina also expressed Crawfish Aquatics’ need for Nicholls students who have swam competitively in the past. 

“We are always on the lookout for lifeguards and swim lessons instructors, and coaches, as well,” Messina said.

These jobs start at ten dollars an hour. Anyone interested in applying for a position with Crawfish Aquatics at Nicholls can send an email to [email protected] or stop by the office, located at 216 NSU Acadia Drive.