The Ernie Els #GameON Autism® MARINO Adaptive Aquatics Certification Program represents a significant advancement in the preparation of aquatics professionals to safely and effectively serve individuals with developmental disabilities. Originally established through House Bill 1319 in Florida to address the heightened risk of drowning and limited access to appropriate swim instruction, this program builds on the pioneering work of the Dan Marino Foundation and is now fully overseen by Els for Autism Foundation®.
Through a comprehensive content review, the certification has been enhanced to reflect current best practices in aquatic safety, autism support, and inclusive instruction. The program equips instructors with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver evidence-based, individualized aquatics instruction that promotes safety, skill development, and meaningful participation.
The newly revised certification is now available as an interactive, self-paced online course,providing aquatics professionals with flexible access to high-quality training through a modern learning management system (LMS). The course integrates research-based content on developmental disabilities, behavior support, communication strategies, and water safety, ensuring instructors are well-prepared to meet diverse learner needs while satisfying Florida’s certification requirements.
Participants will gain practical tools to support motor development, reduce anxiety, and foster social and communication skills through structured aquatic activities. Upon completion, instructors have the opportunity to further engage with the Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Aquatics Official Program Provider Training, helping expand access to safe, inclusive, and impactful aquatics programming for individuals and families in communities across Florida and beyond.
