A gifted communicator, Michael “Mike” Hurd of Maine Masters has contributed to the ongoing business of the NELMSC Board in many ways. As Secretary, his most tangible and lasting contribution has been all of the extensive documentation of meeting minutes he’s created that tell the story of the club and its business.
He’s also contributed blog posts, meet recaps and photos, and other materials to the LMSC website to help keep members informed and engaged. At the club level, Hurd has served as an Officer of Maine Masters, contributing in various roles. Most notably, he served as editor of the club newsletter reporting on and promoting the activities of Maine Masters and the LMSC.
Ever the encourager, Hurd is a life and business coach by day, and he brings that positive energy and focus on helping others become their best selves to every interaction he has with other swimmers. He encourages others to participate in meets and events and shares what’s worked best for him as he’s grappled with several health challenges over the years.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurd was especially instrumental in helping club members keep their connections with each other, despite the challenges the virus posed. He supported members in navigating alternative communication methods and created workgroups and online access so that meetings could continue safely. He did all of this in an effort to keep the sport of swimming thriving for members even when so many pools were closed.
This was no small task as we all adjusted to COVID-era restrictions and isolation. With endless patience and compassion, Hurd effectively guided users – some with little to no experience and some with ample technology experience – in getting set up to conduct online meetings. The technology isn’t always intuitive, but Hurd’s ability to support others is, and he made sure everyone knew how to participate in the online meetings to have their voices heard, which he then recorded in his meticulous minutes.
A consummate coach, Hurd has an innate ability to provide the space others need to absorb dialogue and feel comfortable in a conversation. He also encourages everyone to develop the confidence to share their opinions and experiences in large and small group settings. He offers an inviting space for others to be heard, seen, and valued.
Hurd also served as a representative of the LMSC as a delegate to USMS Conventions and as a Board Member, Officer, and an active member of the Maine Masters Workout Group encouraging participation and a spirit of camaraderie everywhere he goes.
Hurd has been a tremendous asset to his club, the NELMSC, and the whole sport of Masters Swimming. His efforts to cultivate a sense of community through transparency and inclusivity have consistently made Masters Swimming in Maine and across New England a brighter thing.