David W. Wolf was a five year veteran of the Belvidere Barracudas who passed away on November 8, 2004. By naming our invitational swim meet in David’s memory, the Barracuda’s honor David’s life and his dreams. We celebrate the wonderful qualities David shared with his family, friends, schoolmates, and teammates every day of his 14 years of life. David’s family and the Barracudas hope that by sharing his story, current and future generations of swimmers will be inspired and motivated to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.

David was kind, respectful, hard-working, fun-loving, thoughtful, and a true friend to those who knew him. He had a soft heart for new people in a group. He was working during his last year of life with new rookie families on the Barracudas to help them feel more welcomed and encouraged. In competition, David showed true sportsmanship by always cheering other swimmers on.

Besides swimming, David’s other passions were music and reading. He played the bassoon and bass drum for the Belvidere Central Middle School band. David also sang in the 8th grade chorus and played the piano at home for fun. His room is full of books he had read. Near the end of his life, David enjoyed reading all of the Harry Potter books and Frank Peretti books. David was a straight A student with many friends from all walks of life. Church was also an important part of David’s life. He was involved with the Genesis Jr. high Youth group at Heartland Church in Rockford.

Just as David did, consider the decisions you face in life. Consider how you can make a difference in the lives of family, friends, and teammates.