Jan. 29, 2007
FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- Fairfield University swimmer Matt Rimmer (Branford, Conn./Notre Dame H.S.) was one of 13 Connecticut State Park lifeguards that received commendations from Governor M. Jodi Rell this month for their heroic efforts during the summer.
The sophomore was lifeguarding at Hammonasset State Park this past August when he was alerted that a 71-year-old man was pulled from the water down the beach and was not breathing. Rimmer ran to the scene down the beach, began CPR and continued to do so when fellow lifeguard Alex Kowalsky arrived. The pair was able to stabilize the man until the ambulance arrived.
"I don't know if I really deserve an award or anything, I was just doing my job," Rimmer said. "But it's a pretty nice thing to be recognized for."
Rimmer, who has been a lifeguard for three years, was in Hawaii training with the swim team two weeks ago when the commendations were presented by Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). He found out about his commendation upon his return. Rimmer has also been nominated for the American Red Cross National Lifesaving Award for the Professional Rescuer.
"Being honored by the Governor is a great honor for Matt," Director of Athletics Eugene P. Doris said. "It is not everyday that we have a student-athlete called upon to save a life. As a lifeguard and a skilled swimmer, Matt sprung into action when it mattered most. The entire Fairfield community is proud of him."
At Fairfield, Rimmer has had quite a bit of success for the Stags. He is a part of three record-setting relay teams and has numerous dual meet victories. Most recently, Rimmer was the lead leg on the 200m medley relay that set a school record on January 20 and the 200m freestyle relay that set a school record on January 27. In the classroom, Rimmer is majoring in English.
Fairfield wraps up the dual meet season at Holy Cross on February 3. The 2007 MAAC Championships begin on February 8 at Loyola College in Baltimore, Md.
