By every account, the Pool and Spa Show, which took place from January 24 to 26, was amazing.

Freed up for the first truly postpandemic pool industry event, crowds descended on Atlantic City in what appeared to be record numbers.

Rick Harvey & Alicia Stephens BioLab Inc./Natural Chemistry

Rick Harvey of Natural Chemistry said he was told there were more than 12,000 folks in attendance with representation from 7 different countries and 47 U.S. states.

Blake Overduin of Poolwerx and Richard LaMotte both said the show was “simply the best in the country.”

Many exhibitors noted that people are finally bouncing back from the COVID pandemic.

“It’s like night and day compared to last year,” said George Zizmont of Danner Manufacturing Inc.

“I started in the pool and spa industry at the peak of the pandemic,” said Mackenzie Klahr of Haviland Pool and Spa Products. “It’s been awesome to meet all of our partners and distributors and the people that I talk to on a day-to-day basis and finally get to shake their hands.”

Sabeena Hickman, President and CEO of the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance, said that this year’s show was one for the record books.

“There’s always been a perception

Billie Pfeiffer and Blake Overduin, Poolwerx Inc.

George Zizmont, Danner Mfg.

Rich DeMoss & Richard Lamotte, LaMotte Inc.

Mackenzie Klahr & Haviland team.

Sabina Hickman, Pool Hot Tub Alliance with Isaac Keselman of Aqua Doctor the Starfish Aquatic Institute in Savannah, Georgia, acquired by WU in spring last year.

“We’re excited to move in this direction and offer the best education available for the pool service and pool operation industry,” said Peterson. “Whether you perform commercial or residential work, or both, this course provides a solid foundation needed to meet the needs of facility owners and managers, homeowners, and users alike.”

Cost for taking the course will be $300 per student.

For more information about this course, or any other program offered by Watershape University, visit www. watershape.org.