Baywatch and ILS Commend Greek Lifeguard Author

Author Stathis Avramidis (m) with Greg Bonann (l) and Harald Vervaecke (r), 

to whom the "Life-guardians Encyclopedia" is dedicated.

 Baywatch and ILS Commend Greek Lifeguard Author

Athens 13.04.2026. The legendary creator of Baywatch, Greg Bonann, and the father of the ILS, Dr Harald Vervaecke, praised Dr. Stathis Avramidis’ monumental publication “Life-guardians’ Encyclopedia: 45 Centuries of Drowning Prevention, Rescue, Treatment”.

The encyclopedia covers 45 centuries, presenting the evolution of drowning prevention, rescue and treatment through the lives of exceptional individuals from all cultures. Featuring doctors, lifeguards, educators, academics, innovators, Olympic and world champions, media professionals, leaders, royalty, celebrities, entrepreneurs, philanthropists and animals who have saved lives, the book combines a diverse and interdisciplinary narrative of human endeavor, innovation and courage.

Among the “Life-Guardians”, stand out Olympic champions Michael Phelps, Johnny Weismuller, Hollywood stars such as Charlie Chaplin, Esther Williams, David Hasselhoff and Queen Elizabeth II.

The author, Dr. Avramidis is an internationally recognized expert who connects history, science, education and entertainment to promote water safety. “I dedicated the book to two titans of world lifesaving and my personal heroes. One founded the World Lifesaving Federation and the other the television series that contributed to reducing drownings more than anything else in the world”, he said.

Greg Bonann, who is currently directing the episodes of the new Baywatch, after 17 years of knowing and collaborating with the Greek creator on various projects, said: “Excellent, comprehensive and thorough work. Well done Stathis!”

Dr Harald Vervaecke PhD, promoted the book to the most important personalities of the world lifeguard family and commented: “This masterpiece is the best Easter gift I have ever received. It wonderfully depicts the global history of rescue, through its protagonists!”

Among the positive comments from leading personalities, the following stand out:

The president of the World Swimming Hall of Fame, Dr Bill Kent, said: “Stathis’ excellent and pioneering encyclopedia justifies his reputation as an author. This enormous work harmoniously connects the past, the present and the future. Congratulations!"

The President of the International Pierre de Coubertin Committee, Prof. Stephan Wassong, added: “This landmark publication offers an unprecedented historical and scientific overview of lifesaving practices, spanning 45 centuries of knowledge, innovation and humanitarian effort. We commend its value to professionals, researchers and institutions worldwide.”

The former President of the European Lifesaving Federation, Dr Detlev Mohr, said: “Stathi, thank you for this gift to the lifesaving family and the academic community. This encyclopedia will be associated with your name for a lifetime. This is an important step in the history of lifesaving worldwide.”

The encyclopedia is available free of charge from the Hellenic Lifesaving Association under the auspices of the International Swimming Hall of Fame, International Pierre de Coubertin Committee, International, European and Mediterranean Lifesaving Federations. It is available free of charge here.