About MASC
Who We Are
Markham Artistic Swimming Club (MASC) is a non-profit, volunteer-run, incorporated organization that has proudly served Markham and surrounding areas for more than 50 years.
We are dedicated to developing, promoting, and supporting artistic swimming through quality recreational and competitive programming. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to fostering athletic and artistic excellence — while building teamwork, friendship, leadership, and lifelong fitness in every swimmer we work with.
With a close-knit community culture, we provide a positive, supportive, and enjoyable environment where swimmers are encouraged to reach their full potential, both in the pool and beyond.
Our Mission
Our club’s mission is to:
Develop strong, confident athletes through discipline, teamwork, and creativity.
Inspire a lifelong love of swimming, fitness, and artistic expression.
Build community connections through sport and performance.
Our History
The Markham Artistic Swimming Club was founded in the 1970s as a recreational program, growing steadily into the competitive organization it is today.
In 1982, Diane van der Pol was hired by the Town of Markham to lead the recreational program, which at the time comprised approximately 20 swimmers. A Montréal native, former synchronized swimmer, and certified judge, Diane brought with her a wealth of experience — including founding and directing a summer synchro program in Montréal before relocating to Ontario. Prior to joining Markham, she had also coached at Havergal College and the University of Toronto, following a competitive swimming career at Queen's University.
Under Diane's guidance, the program expanded rapidly. She coached numerous swimmers who went on to compete at the national level, but perhaps her most celebrated discovery was Carolyn Waldo, who trained with her program for six summers. In 1989, Carolyn returned to the Markham Synchro Club to perform a short routine and demonstrate figures — a memorable visit that inspired swimmers and families alike.
Throughout her tenure, Diane served not only as coach of one of our 15–20 age group teams and as Head Coach of the Club, but also as an active national synchro judge. Though she has since retired from coaching, she remains involved with Synchro Canada as a national and international judge.
Today, the Markham Artistic Swimming Club continues to grow and thrive. Our success is a testament to the dedication of our highly qualified coaching staff, the unwavering support of our parent community, and the personal commitment of every swimmer who walks through our doors. We look forward to another exciting year ahead.
Have a Question?
We’re excited at the thought of welcoming you – or welcoming you back – into our MASC family. If anything here sparks a question, or if you’re simply wondering whether artistic swimmers really do keep glitter companies in business (short answer: Yes), you can always reach us at our club email anytime.