Sussex County, Delaware, August 8, 2026: The Sussex County Lifesaving Association (SCLA) has done it again. For the third consecutive year, SCLA lifeguards have captured the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) National Championship, bringing another national title home to Delaware.

More than 120 SCLA lifeguards traveled to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, this past week to compete in the annual USLA National Lifeguard Championships, held Tuesday through Friday. Competing against elite lifeguards from across the country, the SCLA once again demonstrated the skill, strength and teamwork that have established Delaware as a national leader in beach lifesaving.

The SCLA represents every beach lifeguard in Delaware, with coverage extending along the coast from Lewes Beach to the state line in Fenwick Island. Throughout the summer, SCLA lifeguards protect the thousands of residents and visitors who enjoy Delaware’s beaches.

SCLA President Matt Farlow congratulated the entire team on the championship and praised the dedication of the lifeguards who proudly represented Sussex County and the state of Delaware.

“We could not be prouder of this team,” Farlow said. “Our lifeguards work incredibly hard, train year-round and take tremendous pride in representing Sussex County and the state of Delaware. To win a national championship three years in a row is an incredible accomplishment, and this 3peat is a testament to their dedication, preparation and teamwork.”

Farlow also thanked the many people who helped make the championship possible.

“We are incredibly grateful to all of our supporters, our captains and the lifeguards who worked tirelessly back home to keep our beaches protected while our national team competed in Fort Lauderdale,” Farlow said. “These guards are passionate about what they do and about protecting the thousands of people who visit our beaches throughout the summer. We are proud of how they represented Delaware.”

SCLA National Team Manager Derek Shockro shared Farlow’s excitement over the team’s achievement.

“I am ecstatic for the SCLA and everyone who played a part in bringing home our third championship in a row,” Shockro said. “This is a tremendous accomplishment for our lifeguards and a reflection of the dedication and support that goes into this team.”

The SCLA also encourages the public to support Congressional House Resolution 1188, which the USLA is working to pass to establish federal recognition of open water lifeguards as first responders. Lifeguards currently do not have that recognition at the federal level, making public support for the resolution especially important.

About the Sussex County Lifesaving Association

The Sussex County Lifesaving Association represents beach lifeguards serving Delaware’s coastline from Lewes Beach to Fenwick Island. Its members are dedicated to professional beach safety, water rescue, emergency response and protecting Delaware’s residents and visitors.