Our Mission
TASA strives to eliminate boundaries that keep our community from water safety and participating in the sport of swimming.
About
Triad Amateur Swim Association (T.A.S.A.)
The Triad Amateur Swim Association (T.A.S.A.) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking barriers in water safety and increasing access to swimming education in Guilford and Forsyth Counties. T.A.S.A. strives to eliminate disparities by providing affordable and inclusive swim lessons, lifeguard training, and competitive swimming opportunities for underserved communities.
With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn water safety skills, T.A.S.A. partners with schools, community centers, and local organizations to offer free and low-cost swim programs. The organization also works to increase diversity in aquatics, empowering individuals of all backgrounds to gain confidence in the water and develop life-saving skills.
Through community outreach, education, and advocacy, T.A.S.A. is making a lasting impact—helping reduce drowning risks, creating future swim instructors, and fostering a culture where swimming is accessible to all.
Triad Amateur Swim Association is Changing Lives Through Water Safety
GTN’s “This is Greensboro” with Rosemary Plybon – Triad Amateur Swim Association
In this episode of This is Greensboro, host Rosemary Plybon sits down with Allen Parson of the Triad Amateur Swim Association (TASA) to discuss the organization’s mission to eliminate barriers to water safety and swimming. Allen shares insights into TASA’s community programs, the importance of swim education, and how the organization is making a lasting impact by providing access to swim lessons, lifeguard training, and competitive opportunities. Tune in to learn how TASA is empowering individuals of all ages to develop confidence in and around the water.
Meet Team TASA
As a Director in the nonprofit organization TASA, Terry leverages his expertise and leadership to make a meaningful impact within his community. A former collegiate athlete and graduate of East Carolina University with a Bachelor’s in Economics, Terry was a football starter who developed a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence that continues to drive him today. His professional certifications, including lifeguard, first aid/CPR, SCUBA, and CPO (Certified Pool Operator), as well as extensive experience in swim instruction, reflect his dedication to safety, quality, and professional development.
Terry Biles
Allen Parson – Director, Aquatic & Recreational Specialist
Allen Parson is a dedicated leader in the field of aquatic and recreational programming, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Director. Holding a degree in Recreational Therapy from Winston Salem State University. Allen has spent over 15 years as a certified Water Safety Instructor, ensuring individuals of all ages develop essential swimming skills and confidence in the water.
With a deep passion for water safety and fitness, Allen has served as a swim coach, guiding athletes toward success, and as a water fitness instructor, promoting health and wellness through aquatic exercise. His role as a coordinator has allowed him to develop and implement dynamic programs that enhance community engagement and provide access to quality aquatic education. Allen holds certifications with Red Cross , CPR/AED for professional rescuers and safety training for swim coaches.
Through his leadership and commitment, Allen continues to create safe, inclusive, and impactful recreational experiences for individuals and families alike.
Tim Hillen – Head Coach, Winston Salem Black Sigma
With over 20 years of coaching experience across four states, Tim Hillen has built a reputation for developing competitive swimmers and fostering a love for the sport. As the founder of EAC in 2012, he started with just 12 swimmers and has since grown the team to over 400 athletes across three cities. His dedication and expertise earned him a spot on the National Team Coaching Staff for the 2018/2019 season.
Originally from Elmhurst, IL, Tim’s favorite stroke is the Individual Medley. Beyond the pool, he enjoys traveling with Andrea, Gunnar, and Quincy, staying active, reading, and visiting family in Chicago. A passionate leader on and off the deck, he also served as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in Cameroon, Africa, in 2007.
Testimonials
From Fear to Confidence
“Before joining T.A.S.A., I was afraid of the water and never thought I would learn to swim. My instructor was patient and helped me take small steps until I felt safe. Now, I love swimming and even help my little brother learn! T.A.S.A. changed my life.”
— Elijah, 10 years old
Learning a Life-Saving Skill
“I used to avoid pool parties and water parks because I didn’t know how to swim. Thanks to T.A.S.A., I now feel confident in the water and even learned how to float and tread water. My parents are so proud of me, and I know this skill will help me for life!”
— Phoenix , 12 years old
A Future Lifeguard in the Making
“I started swim lessons with T.A.S.A. last year, and now I’m working on becoming a junior lifeguard! I never imagined I would love swimming this much, but my coaches encouraged me, and now I want to help others learn too. One day, I want to be a lifeguard and teach kids just like me!”
— Legend, 15 years old
