YMCA of Kanawha Valley Kraken Swim Team
The YMCA of Kanawha Valley (YKV) Kraken participate in the YMCA Southeast Ohio/WV (SEOWV) League as well as in the USA Swimming (USAS) West Virginia LSC. Team members are required to participate in a minimum of 3 YMCA meets, end of season YMCA championships as well as appropriate USAS meets and WV LSC Championships.
Team Descriptions -
Developmental
Age Group I (AG I) - This is an introductory for first time competitive swimmers. Stroke fundamentals and love of the sport are emphasized. Swimmers must be able to swim 25 yards freestyle and backstroke, and are encouraged to attend 2 to 3 practices a week. Depending on the desire of the swimmer, meet participation is an option but supported. Typically ages 5 to 9.
Age Group II (AG II) - This group refines and builds on fundamentals introduced in AG I. This level prepares swimmers to legalize each stroke, learn how to utilize the clock and prepare for more technical practices. Swimmers must be able to swim 25 yards freestyle and another competitive stroke, and are encouraged to attend 2 to 3 practices a week. Meet participation is encouraged. Typically ages 7 to 11.
Age Group III (AG III) - Focus is on technique and stoke development. Swimmer must be able to swim all 4 strokes and perform dive start and appropriate turns for each stroke. Swimmers are encouraged to attend practice 3-4 times per week. Typically ages 10 to 14.
Age Goup IV (AG IV) - At this level refining technique is the number one priority and improvement of use of clock a well as endurance. Swimmers are required to attend practice 5 to 6 days a week plus drylands. Typically ages 11 to 14.
Age Group V (AG V) - This group is focused on training at the highest levels. Swimmers are required to participate in dryland practices each week. 6 practices a week are required. Swimmers must have Great Lake Zone Qualifying Time by end of Short Course Season. Swimmers are also required to help with home swim meets Typically ages 13 to 18 and is by coach invitation only.
Senior Group (Blue and Green) - This is the highest level competition team. This group is specifically designed for swimmers who wish to participate at Y Nationals, USA Junior and Senior Nationals. Assistance with the college recruiting process is offered to all group members. There is a strong emphasis on community service and will be required to help at home meets. To be a member of this group is a SERIOUS COMMITMENT and is by coaches invitation only.
