FISH Waves: January 2026

Monika Paris

Dear FISH Families,

Almost...Happy New Year. I hope you have enjoyed a nice holiday season. January is an important time in our training cycle as we return to consistent practice and prepare for the second half of the season. Thank you for your continued support and for making the effort to have swimmers arrive on time for practice and ready to train — it makes a meaningful difference.

Inclement Weather Reminder

As we head deeper into winter, inclement weather may occasionally prevent us from running practice. We will do our best to let you know quickly if a facility is closed due to weather. As a general rule, if Fairfax County Rec Centers are open, we will run practice.

 

January Meets

We have several swim meets scheduled this month. Please watch for group-specific communication from your coaches with meet details, warm-ups, and any practice schedule adjustments.

  • Block Party
  • January Distance
  • January Open
  • Retriever Meet

 

Minnie Howard Training Site

Our new training site at Minnie Howard Aquatics will begin on January 5. Please help spread the word and let friends and families know about our new location as we continue to grow the program.

 

Welcome Coach Rhett Wisener

Please welcome Coach Rhett Wisener to the FISH coaching staff. Rhett will be instrumental in developing the Minnie Howard site and will also work with groups at Spring Hill and Audrey Moore.

Rhett is originally from Ohio and grew up in Indiana. He swam competitively through high school and later played club water polo at Ball State and Purdue University. He earned a degree in Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences from Purdue University in 1997 and spent nearly 20 years working as a fisheries biologist with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. In 2024, he earned a Master’s degree in Coaching Education from Ohio University.

Rhett has more than 15 years of coaching experience working with swimmers of all levels, from beginners to national-level athletes. His coaching approach focuses on strong technique, long-term athlete development, and clear communication. Please say hello to him when you see him on deck!  

 

Swim-A-Thon Fundraiser

We will be launching our annual Swim-A-Thon fundraiser later this month. I will share additional information soon.

 

Thank you from all of us here at the FISH for your continued support.

Warm regards,
Monika Paris