Group placements serve as general guidelines. Coaches will make final decisions based on what’s best for each swimmer. Moves to the next group will be discussed with parents when the swimmer is ready, typically between short and long course seasons.

PLATINUM
For swimmers aged 13–18 who have achieved AA and above time standards. This group trains at a high level with a focus on YMCA Nationals. A year-round commitment is required to reach National standards. Most swimmers in this group have grown up in the program or have prior competitive experience and are expected to compete in most meets.
 

IRON
Designed for 13–18-year-olds, with a strong focus on technique refinement and building conditioning. Training includes IM, interval sets, and aerobic base work. These swimmers are "pumping Iron" to move up to Platinum.
 

COBALT
A performance group primarily for 11–12-year-olds. Swimmers 10 and under may be included if they’ve achieved a Zone cut. Athletes in this group have mastered all four strokes and often have prior Barracuda experience. The focus is on 100s of each stroke, 500 Free, and the 200 IM. Swimmers are working toward AA and Zone qualifying times.
 

SILVER
For competitive swimmers aged 11–14. The group begins with a focus on stroke technique and 100-yard races, then transitions to longer events (200 yards and up) as the season progresses. Drills and technique remain a priority throughout the season. This is typically where year-round commitment begins.
 

BRONZE
Designed for swimmers aged 8–11 with at least one season of competitive experience. Initial focus is on improving stroke technique, starts, and turns. The season then transitions to mastering 100s and 200s, with the introduction of mid-distance and endurance training.
 

COPPER
For intermediate instructional swimmers aged 10 and under. Athletes must have at least three legal strokes. Emphasis is placed on developing stroke fundamentals, as well as starts and turns through drill-based instruction.
 

NICKEL
For beginning instructional swimmers aged 10 and under who can swim both freestyle and backstroke. The focus is on learning competitive swimming rules and developing diving skills.
 

MINI CUDAS
This group is for younger swimmers not yet ready for full competitive training. Practice runs September through early March. Swimmers ready for the competitive team will be invited to join in April for a nominal summer season fee. Mini Cudas may attend meets. Note: this group does not run during the long course season (April–July).