The former sprint freestyle swimmer, who won relay medals at three consecutive Olympic Games 1996, 2000, 2004 will pass on expert knowledge to youngsters at the Oxley Street pool this summer.

Camden Amateur Swimming Club president Sue Donohoe said club members were delighted that Ms Ryan was on board.

Mrs Donohoe said Ms Ryan had an affinity with the club and that, being an Olympic swimmer, she knew what it was like to go through training sessions that were necessary for elite swimmers.

YMCA Sydney general manager Craig Lambeth said a swimming squad program, a learn to swim program and a new aquarobics program would be launched at the pool this month.

``There's no better time to get the kids to learn how to swim and now is the ideal time to pursue that going into the school holidays,'' he said.

Mrs Donohoe said the six-lane 50metre, toddler, and leisure pools, were open to the public and that residents should use the facilities, not only for enjoyment but for health.

``Swimming is good exercise for people of all ages and good for those people who have joint problems who can't run or walk,'' she said.

``Swimming is not only for champions. It's for everybody.'''

Details: Sue Donohoe on 0412150292.