Duke Nereidians

The Duke Nereidians, or Neredian Club, was a synchronized swimming team formed in 1930^[1] by a group of eight students^[2] and a faculty advisor^[3] "to promote interest and efficiency in rhythmic swimming, stunts, and diving among the women students of Duke University."^[2] The team typically consisted of 35 to 50 swimmers chosen from tryouts in the fall and spring semesters.^[3][4] New members underwent a pledge ceremony called "Fish Day," where they were required to wear large paper fishes around their necks while carrying a glass of water and a fishing pole.^[3] The Nereidians held weekly practices,^[2] which culminated in a final performance or "water pageant" each spring, usually featuring a theme, elaborate costumes, props, and staging.^[4]

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