Chambersburg Swimmers Make Waves at YMCA National Championships!
The Chambersburg Chargers excel at YMCA Nationals in Ocala, showcasing top swimming talent and competitive achievements.
Chambersburg Swimmers Make Waves at YMCA National Championships!
The recent YMCA National Long Course Championships showcased the talents of the Chambersburg Chargers, a dedicated swimming team that continues to make waves in competitive swimming. The event, held at the Florida Aquatic Swimming & Training facility in Ocala, Florida, brought together swimmers from across the nation. The Chargers displayed remarkable prowess, especially from standout performers like Ellery Hayes and Cullen McGraw.
Ellery Hayes made a splash by winning the 200 backstroke during the time trials with a time of 2:30.65, which is commendable. Cullen McGraw also had a stellar competition, not only clinching third place in both the 800 freestyle (8:29.33) and 1,500 freestyle (16:24.58), but also securing sixth in the 200 backstroke with a time of 2:09.25. Team events saw McGraw join forces with Alex Kaczmark, Ethan White, and Amir Tasker to finish fifth in the 800 freestyle relay, while Kaczmark snared an impressive eighth place in the 400 freestyle (4:09.70). Gabriel Kahsay and Xiomara Del Rosario rounded out the individual performances with strong finishes in their respective events, finishing ninth in the 200 butterfly (2:08.06) and eleventh in the 50 breaststroke (34.22). As reported by Local News 1, the Chargers placed tenth in the boys’ team scores and eighteenth in the girls’ team scores, demonstrating a competitive spirit throughout the meet.
A Closer Look at Team Development
The Chambersburg Chargers swim team, as detailed on GoMotion, is committed to year-round competitive swimming. With professional coaching and comprehensive technique instruction available for all ages and abilities, the team aims to help its members thrive—from novices to potential international competitors. Certified YMCA and USA Swimming coaches ensure that each swimmer receives the training they need to excel.
The coaching philosophy emphasizes not only performance but also the importance of community involvement. The Chargers are a non-profit organization run by an elected Board of Directors, encouraging active participation from parents and members in the team’s operations. Meetings held each season help keep everyone informed and engaged.
Swimming at the YMCA: Foundations for Future Stars
The YMCA Swimming Team program, highlighted by the YMCA North, introduces children and teens aged 5 to 18 to the world of competitive swimming. Swimmers must demonstrate basic skills but are not required to master them before joining. This structure allows young athletes to grow at their own pace while fostering a sense of fun and teamwork.
With a range of practice sessions tailored to different skill levels, the program emphasizes individual development. Structured groups ensure that all participants, from the novice to the advanced swimmer, receive the attention and training necessary to succeed. Volunteer opportunities are available, giving parents a chance to become more involved in their child’s swimming journey.
Overall, the Chambersburg Chargers’ recent performances at the YMCA National Long Course Championships reflect not just the individual achievements of its members, but also the rich community and developmental opportunities offered by the club and the wider YMCA swimming programs. With such dedication and talent in the pool, the future looks bright for these young swimmers.