Description & History:
 

The Rappahannock Area YMCA Stingrays are a non-profit, year round, USA and YMCA swim team. The team is divided into six practice groups; providing a natural and sensible progression through which the swimmer moves as he or she grows and matures. This structure is designed to encourage a swimmer's enthusiasm for the sport, and to meet the needs of all levels of ability and interest. The Stingrays are comprised of swimmers, coaches, parents, staff and volunteers. The team is parent owned and governed by a board of directors.

The Stingrays were organized in 1979 by Joyce O'Toole and Sue Anne Shotwell, Program Director for the YMCA. Carl Ingerbretsen was the first head coach of the Stingrays. The team was originally organized as an AAU team (AAU was the predecessor to USA Swimming) and as a member of the Virginia YMCA Association. In the beginning, the Stingrays practiced out of Goolrick Hall on the campus of Mary Washington College. Today, the Stingrays practice at the Massad YMCA, Rosner YMCA, Jeff Rouse Swim and Sport Center,  King George YMCA, Curtis Park, and again at the University of Mary Washington. It can always be said that Stingray swimmers have fun being successful.

• PO Box 866 • Stafford, VA 22555-0866 • (540) 207-0846