Barracudas overview

Barracudas History

The Barracudas Swim Club started in the spring of 2002 with eight children from our YMCA Shark swim level and has continued to grow ever since. In this short period of time we have successfully introduced many swimmers to competitive swimming skills.  We are proud to note that several of our swimmers have gone on to swim for their respective high school teams.

Barracudas Philosophy, Mission and Primary Objective

The Barracudas Swim Club is more concerned with sports involvement at a broad participation level, rather than focusing on producing elite athletes. Therefore, our program teaches fundamental swimming skills, encouraging lifetime involvement in physical activity.  At the same time we emphasize the values of fitness, healthy living, self-respect, and respect for others. These are central themes in the YMCA sports philosophy. The following are the essential elements of the YMCA competitive aquatic philosophy to which we adhere:

  • support and instruct every swimmer on the team
  • work on basic skills and teach good physical habits
  • teach fair play and mutual respect
  • help swimmers set and evaluate individual and team goals
  • foster a winning attitude, in both victory and defeat
  • encourage lifetime involvement in sports an physical activity
  • work with the whole person -- body, mind and spirit

Coaching Staff Responsibilities

  • Run practice
  • Set and pursue individual and team goals by working closely with the swimmers
  • Set policies, establishing practice, and meet schedules
  • Work in cooperation with the Parents in promoting and developing the team
  • Teach the YMCA core values - respect, responsibility, caring, and honesty

Swimmer Responsibilities

  • Attend practice on a regular basis
  • Communicate effectively with the coaching staff
  • Support his/her teammates
  • Demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times
  • Appreciate your parents
  • Attend all meets in which you have entered
  • Act responsibly in the locker rooms
  • Make new friends
  • HAVE FUN

Parent Responsibilities

  • Drop and collect your swimmer(s) to and from swim practices/meets on time.
  • Support the team as a whole by volunteering your time
  • Obtain and read a copy of the quarterly Barracudas newsletter
  • Fulfill all financial obligations related to the team (for example, swim meet fees) in a timely manner
  • Keep communications with the coaching staff frequent and open