Ages 8 - 12  

Practice Times:

(Mon-Wed 5:15 - 6:30 PM)

(Fri 5:15-6:30 PM)

(Sat 11:00-12:30 PM)

Description:

Swimmers in this group have the opportunity to practice five times per week for one hour and 15 minutes with an additional fifteen minutes devoted to basic stretching for increased flexibility and range of motion.  Swimmers in this group begin to learn advanced stroke technique, racing starts and turns, and basic training skills.  Swimmers are introduced to basic race strategy and challenge sets.  Practice attendance is not required for this group but it is recommended that swimmers attend at least three out of the five practices each week.  Swimmers will compete in YMCA dual swim meets, USA Swimming invitationals, in addition to their expected attendance in the CT YMCA State Championship Meet, CT Regionals, and CT Age Groups for those who qualify.  Swimmers new to the program must be evaluated by a member of the coaching staff prior to enrollment.

Prerequisites:

• Swim a continuous 200 yard free with flip turns and streamlines

• Swim a legal 100 yard IM

• Demonstrate an effective racing start and backstroke start

• Perform all turns and push offs effciently including streamlining and underwater kicks

• Demonstrate a proven ability to listen to coaches and make effort to improve

• Understand and demonstrate the YMCA's 4 core character values