About NOVA South

NOVA South is a competitive swim program serving families in Hopewell and the surrounding communities of Chester and Prince George. We train at the Chester Hopewell Community Center and operate with our own coaching staff, practice groups, and day-to-day structure.

Our athletes compete under the NOVA name as a recognized satellite program through USA Swimming, allowing swimmers to represent NOVA at meets while training locally in a smaller, community-focused environment.

Our History

NOVA South began as VACS (Virginia Association of Competitive Swimming), a long-standing swim program that served swimmers in the Chester/Hopewell area. In 2013, VACS entered into a teaming agreement with NOVA of Virginia Aquatics to align meet representation and expand competitive opportunities for swimmers in the Hopewell region and nearby communities.

Through this agreement, VACS athletes began competing under the NOVA name, and the program adopted the NOVA South identity. This structure allowed swimmers to benefit from competing as part of a larger team while continuing to train with their local coaches and community.

NOVA of Virginia Aquatics trains at its primary Richmond-area facilities, including the Regency Mall aquatic center and the Gayton Road facility. NOVA South is not based at those locations and has always maintained its own coaching staff, operations, and team structure in Hopewell and Chester.

Independent Structure

While NOVA South competes under the NOVA name, we are a separate and independently operated program.
We manage our own staffing, scheduling, communication, finances, and daily operations. NOVA and NOVA South maintain separate leadership and are distinct organizations connected through USA Swimming’s satellite structure and the longstanding 2013 teaming agreement.

Our Approach

NOVA South emphasizes small practice groups, individualized coaching, and a positive, community-centered training environment. Our goal is to help swimmers develop strong fundamentals, confidence, and long-term enjoyment of the sport.