MUNCIE, Ind. -- Scuba diving may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Muncie, but for Tom Leaird, it’s been a lifelong passion. For over 50 years, Leaird has been teaching people of all ages how to explore the underwater world through his dive shop and instructional programs.
Leaird’s Scuba, located in Muncie, is more than just a shop, it’s a community hub where just about anyone can come together to learn, train and take a dive into underwater life. Whether it's Ball State students earning scuba certifications or local firefighters looking for hobbies outside of work, the shop has become a cornerstone for diving in Indiana.
Leaird’s journey into scuba diving began as a hobby, but it quickly became his life’s work. After working in the photography industry for over 30 years, he transitioned into running his scuba shop full-time. He has since written 23 books on diving, helped establish national scuba training programs, and instructed thousands of divers.
"Ten thousand three hundred and some names of people that have taken our program,” said Leaird. "I walk into the YMCA and see students wanting to take the course, I didn't know anybody around me, and I'm hearing people say, 'Hey Tom, how are you doing?' I've influenced a lot of people."
At 86 years old, Leaird has no plans to slow down.
"Scuba's been my life, continues to be my life,” Leaird said. “Am I going to retire? No. When I fall over, that's it. My grandkids have two options, be a diver or change your last name because every Leaird is a scuba diver."
Leaird's underwater services have also had an impact on the youth. Ball State freshman Kelsey Flora is one of the many students who has found a home in the scuba community.
"I was a little nervous coming into college and worried about not making friends," Flora said. "Then my aunt suggested I get scuba certified, and I found out Ball State had just started a scuba club. I joined, and now some of my closest friends are from diving. It’s a safe, welcoming environment."
Instructor Brooke Speedy shares a similar story. She discovered scuba diving while studying zoology at Ball State and quickly fell in love with it.
“I was a swimmer my whole life, but scuba diving opened up a whole new world,” Speedy said. “I love teaching because it’s a skill that not only promotes water safety but also brings adventure into people’s lives.”
While many assume scuba diving is dangerous, instructors at Leaird’s Scuba emphasize that, with proper training, it’s one of the safest sports.
“A lot of people think it’s super dangerous, but it’s just like any other activity,” Speedy explained. “As long as you follow the safety rules, almost anybody can scuba dive. Tom always says it’s more dangerous to walk down the street than it is to scuba dive and that’s true.”
From first-time divers to lifelong enthusiasts, Leaird’s Scuba continues to inspire the next generation to explore the depths. Whether it’s in the classroom, the pool, or an open-water dive, Leaird’s impact on the diving community is undeniable.
Contact Demar Robinson with comments at demarcus.robinson@bsu.edu.
