Michael Phelps, the legendary Olympic swimmer, has agreed to teach the Baltimore Ravens football players how to swim. This surprising collaboration came about after several Ravens players shared that they never learned how to swim. Phelps, a Baltimore native and a longtime fan of the Ravens, accepted the players’ request and will be imparting his swimming expertise to the team.
The unique partnership between Michael Phelps and the Baltimore Ravens was revealed in a video posted on Instagram by cornerback Marlon Humphrey. In the video, safety Kyle Hamilton, offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, and tight end Charlie Kolar expressed their need for Phelps’ assistance during their training camp. The players highlighted the fact that a significant number of Ravens players cannot swim, with Hamilton stating that “1 in 3 Ravens cannot swim.”
Phelps responded enthusiastically to the players’ request, committing to help them learn how to swim. He expressed his readiness by commenting, “I got yall!!! Let’s do it!!” The collaboration sparked excitement among fans and fellow athletes, with Flavor Flav even suggesting that the players could also benefit from learning from U.S. women’s water polo players he sponsored during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Being a Baltimore native, Phelps has a deep connection to the city and the Ravens. The Ravens have previously honoured Phelps during their games, with him leading the team’s offense onto the field in 2012. Phelps has credited Ravens legend Ray Lewis with inspiring his return to swimming after winning six medals at the 2012 London Olympics.
The Ravens are gearing up for the upcoming NFL season, starting with a road game against Josh Allen’s Buffalo Bills on Sept. 7. The collaboration with Phelps not only highlights the team’s commitment to player safety and well-being but also showcases the camaraderie and willingness to learn and support each other within the team.
The unexpected partnership between a swimming icon like Michael Phelps and a football team like the Baltimore Ravens serves as a reminder of the importance of athletes supporting each other across different disciplines. It also underlines the significance of water safety and the value of acquiring essential life skills, regardless of one’s professional athletic background.
As the Ravens delve into their training camp with the guidance of Michael Phelps, the sports world eagerly anticipates the results of this unique collaboration. The intersection of swimming and football brings together two diverse sports worlds, demonstrating that teamwork, dedication, and a willingness to learn know no boundaries in the realm of athletics. Let’s stay tuned to witness the Ravens dive into this new chapter of their training with the guidance of a swimming legend.