Welcome to KEY Swimming !!!
The YMCA Philosophy
The mission of the South Community YMCA is to provide programs and an environment that will help people grow physically, intellectually, and morally.
We are an association of people united by the commitment to the values of our Judeo-Christian traditions. Our programs are designed to:
- Promote Healthy Lifestyles
- Strengthen Families
- Develop Leadership Qualities in Youth
- Improve Our Community
- Increase Understanding Among People
The KEY Swim Team Mission Statement
The South (Kettering) YMCA KEY Swim Team is an energetic, competitive, year-round age-group-based swim program in Kettering, Ohio, which has served the Dayton and surrounding communities since 1964. Our program emphasizes individuality within a unified team concept, where success is measured by self-improvement and not by comparison to others. The program combines the best of athletics, team camaraderie, sportsmanship, physical conditioning, and of course, fun!
KEY is committed to helping athletes succeed both in and out of the water, offering all levels of swimming from beginners to those who are qualified to compete at the national level. Over the years, KEY has produced many national champions along with several who have qualified and participated in various international competitions as well as Olympic Trials.
The program consists of six separate groups of swimmers ranging from six years of age to high school, and is led by some of the most dedicated coaches in the area. Their extensive knowledge of swimming is surpassed only by their love of the sport and the positive impact they have on the bodies and minds of our swimmers. Whether a novice swimmer or consummate competitor, a KEY swimmer will benefit from the individualized attention provided by this coaching staff.
The coaching philosophy is based on personal motivation and teamwork. Coaches spend a considerable amount of time focused on stroke technique, dry-land conditioning and development of personal work habits through goal setting, discipline, hard work, and above all -- lots of FUN!
The less experienced swimmers are given just as much recognition and individual attention as the seasoned veterans. For younger swimmers, the coaches try to find the right balance between instruction and play to maintain enthusiasm for the sport.
A family atmosphere that fosters team building and continual self-improvement is a huge part of who we are . . .
For answers to your questions or additional information, please feel free to contact
Head Coach Eric Wentzel at 434-1964, or [email protected]


