The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley Barracudas Swim Team took 2^nd place in Overall Team for the Wisconsin/Upper Michigan YMCA State Swim Meet this past weekend at Schroeder YMCA in Brown Deer, Wisconsin.

The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley Swim Team program focuses on the development of swimmers of all ages and abilities. The coaching staff and swimmers worked hard this season to improve skill level, technique, and endurance. The Barracuda Swim Team program works to embrace the YMCA's core values and promotes progression at an individual level.

“Seeing our swimmer compete so well at a state-level is extremely rewarding. I believe their hard work and dedication to the sport sets them apart from other programs across the state. Earning the 2nd place Overall Team award is a great accomplishment that these swimmers will remember for years to come,” Ryan Wedl, YMCA Barracudas Swim Team Head Coach, explained. 

Advancing past the state meet, 5 individuals will be heading to the 2022 YMCA National Swimming Championship Meet in Greensboro, North Carolina, next week to compete one final time this season. The YMCA Barracudas will be represented at the national meet by Evelyn Arnold, Gabi Augustyn, Erik Petrowski, Ella Spitz, and Peyton Watson. 

“All of our swimmers had a fantastic season. I am extremely proud of what all our swimmers accomplished this year. Having 55 swimmers advance to the state meet and having 5 swimmers move on to the national meet speaks volumes about the dedication our swimmers have to not only this team but the sport itself,” Wedl stated. 

The Barracudas Swim Team combines YMCA and USA year-round competitive swimming programs in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and the surrounding area. They promote the long-term development of athletes by offering skill instruction, training focused on improving fitness levels, and appropriate social interactions in a caring, respectful, and encouraging environment. Barracudas has over 200 student-athletes ranging from 5 to 19 years old.