Olympic Swimmer's Childhood Pool Now Bears Family's Name

COCKEYSVILLE, MD — A Baltimore County pool where Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps and his sisters trained as children will now bear their family's name.

Cockeysville's Padonia Park Club announced recently that its Olympia Pool will be renamed the Phelps Legacy Pool.

The renaming honors Debbie Phelps, the swimmers' mother and a long-time teacher who recently started an education fund.

"For decades, the Phelps family has inspired excellence both in and out of the water," Padonia told Patch in a Monday statement. "Their legacy has touched countless lives—through mentorship, championship performances, and steadfast support of local programs. This pool stands as a celebration of that legacy and as a place where new generations will dive in to discover their own strength, confidence, and passion for the sport."

Debbie Phelps retired this year after 50 years in education, including nearly 30 in Baltimore County Public Schools. The beloved teacher is now launching the Phelps Legacy Fund to support children's education.

"Debbie shaped the lives of her children, Whitney, Hilary and Michael, making wonderful role models in all three, as well as countless students right here in Baltimore County," Padonia said. "The Phelps Legacy Pool is a lasting tribute to the Phelps family and their unwavering commitment to swimming, sportsmanship, and community."

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The new pool name was announced at Debbie Phelps' retirement party, held last week at Padonia's ballroom.

Padonia also announced that a waterslide will be constructed at the Phelps Legacy Pool. The swim lanes where the Phelps family once set records will remain open.

Before winning 28 Olympic medals across five Summer Games and becoming the most decorated Olympian ever, Michael Phelps set these records for boys aged 9 and 10 at Padonia.

• 100-meter individual medley (1 minute, 14.23 seconds).
• 50-meter freestyle (30.07 seconds).
• 25-meter backstroke (16.26 seconds).
• 25-meter butterfly (14.99 seconds).

His sister, Whitney Phelps, set Padonia's records for:

• 50-meter freestyle (31.57 seconds) for girls aged 9 and 10.
• 50-meter butterfly (30.40 seconds) for girls aged 11 and 12.

Their other sibling, Hilary Phelps, also competed in the pool as a child.

"We thank the Phelps family for their remarkable contributions and for helping shape the spirit of PADONIA," the swim club said. "May the Phelps Legacy Pool continue to reflect the values of dedication, perseverance, and love for swimming for many years to come."

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