Temescal Aquatic Masters began in 1983 at the Temescal Pool. A few of the lap swim regulars decided to create a community of focused, like-minded swimmers aspiring to improve their technique and fitness in a team environment. Unlike most other masters clubs, most of the membership never planned to compete. Also unusual was the lack of structure of the club, with no elected persons, and a core of senior members meeting informally to make decisions. 

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We proudly adopted a second name, the "Emma Goldman Aquatic Collective," to grace our T-Shirts. (Emma Goldman was an anarchist.) Social activity was always part of the club, including conversation at the end of the lane between sets and in team events. 

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The team has had a varying number of swimmers, and at once time even offered a second work-out from 8–9pm. For several years, the team sponsored an open water race.

 

The team was founded on the principle of cooperation between people with a common interest and has continued to exist because of that spirit.