The Willmar Aquatic Racing Stingrays (WARS), founded in 1980, is a non-profit organization offering a year-round competitive swim program to individuals from a beginning swimmer to the most competitive and skilled swimmer. The Stingrays further develop on the skills required for competitive swimming and should therefore not be confused with swimming lessons. Stingrays swimmers must be able to swim in deep or shallow water; be able to swim the length of the pool without resting; in addition, be mature enough to listen and follow directions. WARS is a member of United States Swimming: USA Swimming, which is a national governing organization for competitive swimming in the United States, as well as Minnesota Swimming. The USA age group swimming program is America's largest program of guided fitness activity for children. Age group swimming builds a strong foundation for a lifetime of good health by teaching healthy fitness habits. When a young person becomes a member of the WARS, he/she learns the values of sportsmanship and teamwork. Swimming with the Stingrays provides physical, emotional, and intellectual skills that will last a lifetime. Willmar Stingrays also offers Masters’ Swimming Program for athletes 18 years old and over.