Goldfish Swim School Honored as Franchisee of the Year
Excitement fills the air as Goldfish Swim School Franchising, LLC proudly announces that the McCaghy/Marszalek Group, led by Tracey McCaghy and Steve Marszalek, has earned the esteemed title of 2024 Franchisee of the Year from the International Franchise Association (IFA). This recognition highlights their unwavering commitment to excellence in franchise ownership at this year’s annual IFA convention.
Exceptional Leadership and Community Impact
Tracey and Steve have been at the forefront of Goldfish Swim School for over a decade, showcasing not only strategic expertise but also a hands-on approach to leadership. They operate six locations and emphasize the importance of water safety education in their communities. Chris McCuiston, CEO and co-founder of Goldfish Swim School, commended their outstanding contributions, noting that their leadership helps create nurturing environments where children can learn vital water safety skills.
A Legacy of Excellence in Swim Education
The award-winning McCaghy/Marszalek Group includes their flagship location in Manchester, Connecticut, which has been recognized as the 2024 School of the Year. Their growing portfolio also encompasses schools in Braintree and Norwood, Massachusetts, along with Norwalk, Stamford, and Cromwell in Connecticut. With more than 7,000 children benefiting from their programs each year, they set high standards for enrollment and community engagement.
Recognition from the IFA
Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO, praised the McCaghy/Marszalek Group as exemplifying the spirit of franchising. Their achievements not only showcase their dedication to their franchise but also emphasize their commitment to community service and economic development. The Franchisee of the Year awards selects outstanding franchisees through rigorous criteria, looking for individuals who foster vibrant workforces and boost local economies.
Goldfish Swim School's Mission and Philosophy
Goldfish Swim School focuses on providing exceptional swim instruction for children aged 4 months to 12 years. They utilize a unique approach called The Science of SwimPlay®, ensuring that children learn in a fun and supportive environment. The school's primary goal is to instill water safety education while teaching children how to swim, helping young ones develop valuable life skills both in and out of the water.
Franchise Opportunities Available
As the brand continues to expand, new franchise opportunities are accessible in various regions, including California, Tampa, and Dallas. Individuals interested in enriching their communities through swim education can find detailed information on franchise options directly through Goldfish Swim School's official channels.
Continuous Growth and Recognition
Founded in 2006 by Chris and Jenny McCuiston, Goldfish Swim School has rapidly expanded to over 185 locations across 35 states and Canada, with an additional 160 schools in development. The brand also received accolades from major publications, ranking No. 75 in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 for 2025 and recognized as the No. 1 swimming lessons franchise for nine consecutive years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the recipients of the Franchisee of the Year award?
The award was given to Tracey McCaghy and Steve Marszalek, owners of the McCaghy/Marszalek Group.
What is the focus of Goldfish Swim School?
Goldfish Swim School provides swim lessons and water safety instruction for children aged 4 months to 12 years.
Where are Goldfish Swim School locations primarily located?
They operate in several states, including Connecticut and Massachusetts, among others.
What is the teaching philosophy of Goldfish Swim School?
The school employs The Science of SwimPlay® to teach children through play-based learning.
Are there franchise opportunities available?
Yes, Goldfish Swim School has franchise opportunities available in various markets across the U.S. and Canada.
