Wexford Whales: Learn To Swim

The Turtle Learn To Swim program concluded another successful season with a final exhibition meet and celebration. Cheered on by proud parents and siblings, the Turtles raced and dove, showing off their new skills. Each Turtle received a certificate and memento from their coach.


"What a great year for the swimmers. Turtles was great and the coaches really cared and did a great job!!!" Mia Nigrelli


23 Turtles participated in the program. Meaghan McCotter served as head coach. Coaches Jacqui Elliott, Caitlin Elliott, Olivia Villa, Megan Wallace, Maureen McCotter, and Kathryn McCormack worked with the Turtles in small groups, teaching them basic swimming skills.

"..all of the sudden, Arianna is swimming on her own, up and back across the pool and putting her head into the water with just a little encouragement. It was a huge accomplishment for her and I know that Meaghan's patience is responsible for it." Debbie Cohen
"Chase can now swim with his head under the water and is confident swimming without his floaties. We are very pleased with his progress thanks to Olivia's instruction!!" Amy & Tom Weber

The goal of the Turtle program is teach kids the skills they need to swim and play safely in the pool. The ultimate measure of success is the "Band Test". This season, 8 made their high bands and 4 made their low bands. Turtles have the opportunity to showcase their skills in the hotly contested kickboard races held at the "B" Meets on Wednesday nights during the swim season.

"I thought the program was wonderful and the coaches were fun and knowledgable. Jon learned to swim freestyle, butterfly and backstroke and he learned to dive off the block. Jacqui was great and Jon made his high band. I can't say enough good stuff about the program...good job!" Erica Simmons

Turtles who have graduated with the "High Band" are encouraged to join the "Little Whales" as their next step. "Little Whales" prepares the kids for swim team by teaching proper stroke and breathing techniques. The Turtle Program and Little Whales are an important and valued part, the future, of the Whale Swim team.

Jen Cunningham is the Program Coordinator. To REGISTER, visit the "Handouts" section of the site.