Join the Snappers Swim Team Community

This fall, the newest coach for the YMCA Snappers Swim Team is a Snapper alum. It’s the fifth time a proud former Snapper has returned to the pool to coach the next generation of Berkshire County swimmers.

“This is very lucky for us because these veteran swimmers are often some of the best instructors we have,” Coach Jill Svirida says.

We love it when we see familiar faces coming back to engage with the aquatics community at the Kilpatrick. Like Ashli Minor’s two kids. For the past three years, she’s watched them grow and come out of their shells socially and athletically. “My daughter was hesitant to join not knowing anyone on the team,” Minor explains, noting that her daughter wasn’t always excited about team sports. “Within two practices she was totally hooked. It’s a very accepting, non-judgmental community even if they’re just learning to swim. It’s a great environment to put your kids into.”

The Snappers were formed in the fall of 1999 with the intention of making the team an integral part of athletic offerings available to the local community. This year, more than 90 swimmers signed up at registration on September 19th. Swimmers come from across the region and for many swimmers it’s a great opportunity to make friends outside of school. “It’s a new group of people that kids can bond with and there’s a huge camaraderie on the team,” Says Coach Jill.

Snappers range from 5-18 years old. Many developed their initial interest in swimming in our SwimAmerica swim lesson program. Anna Zdziarski, now 16, took SwimAmerica lessons and started on Snappers when she was eight. Last year, with several other members of the team, she competed in the New England championships at Harvard.

“Snappers raised me. I can’t say enough about the coaches and what a beautiful environment this is.” Now, younger Snappers coming up through the ranks are looking up to Anna. “I feel so blessed to be a role model for these kids.”

The Snappers have seen their share of successes and continue to get better. Last year a record number of swimmers qualified to go to the regional championships. And the 2011-12 season is shaping up to be one of the best. Though the season began September 19th, there’s still time to get involved. Contact Coach Jill Svirida today to learn more.