GKAISA Internship and Leadership Program
The Greater Knoxville Area Interclub Swimming Association (GKAISA) is proud to introduce the GKAISA Internship and Leadership Program, a four-year experience designed to develop strong leaders within our swimming community. This program offers high school students hands-on opportunities to learn organizational, communication, and event management skills while working with a nonprofit organization.
Program Overview
The GKAISA Internship and Leadership Program is a four-year commitment, with primary responsibilities occurring during the summer months. Interns work directly with GKAISA leadership to support the administration and operations of the association.
The GKAISA Internship and Leadership Program is an unpaid internship. However, successful completion of the program provides the opportunity to apply for a $2,500 scholarship.
Core Responsibilities
Interns will assist with the essential operations of GKAISA, including:
- Organizing and confirming coach certification compliance across member clubs
- Verifying pool insurance documentation for all clubs
- Communicating pre-season information to GKAISA membership
- Managing communication and notifications for general membership meetings
- Recording minutes for general membership and board meetings
- Organizing marketing materials and program resources
- Assisting with sponsorship program coordination
- Supporting social media content and communications
- Providing logistical support during City Meet setup
- Completing additional administrative duties as needed
Program Focus
This program is designed for students interested in:
- Business
- Communications
- Sports management
- Trade school pathways
- Post–high school employment that benefits from leadership, organizational, and communication skills
Interns gain valuable real-world experience in nonprofit operations, community engagement, public communication, record-keeping, and event coordination. These skills prepare students for success whether they pursue college, trade school, or direct entry into the workforce.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Applicants must:
- Be a current high school freshmen, applying to begin the summer following their freshman year
- In 2026 the program is being opened to both current Freshman (rising Sophomores) and current Juniors (rising Seniors) to help jump start the program.
- Commit to the full four-year duration of the program - * for freshman applicants
- Have been a member of a GKAISA swim team for at least one year prior to applying
- Demonstrate an interest in pursuing higher education, trade school, or post–high school employment in a related field
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Have working knowledge of:
- MS Word and Excel
- Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Forms
- (Preferred) Have experience with website design or management
Application Timeline
To ensure adequate time for review and selection, applicants must follow the annual application timeline below. Applications will only be accepted via the Google Form linked here:
Application Opens:
February 15th, 2026
Application Deadline:
March 15 (every year)
Interviews (if required):
Late March – Early April
Selection Announced:
April 15
Internship Start:
Beginning of the summer season following the student’s freshman year
A Leadership Pathway Through Swimming
The GKAISA Internship and Leadership Program provides more than work experience, it creates a pathway for young leaders to serve their community, build confidence, and gain skills that will benefit them for years to come. Successful completion of the program yields the qualifications to apply for a $2,500 scholarship, celebrating the intern’s successful completion of the program and their commitment to GKAISA and its mission.
For more information about the program or application process, please contact one of the GKAISA board members (https://gkaisa.swimtopia.com/board-members).
