As the Ballantyne Country Club swim team gears up for another exciting season, swimmers, coaches and families are preparing for a summer filled with intense training, fierce competition and unforgettable memories. Registration is now open.  

 

Swimmers of all ages are welcome to participate, with age groups ranging from the youngest Shrimpers (6 and under) to 15 and older. Practices will begin on May 5 and continue five days a week throughout the season, with breaks only for swim meets or holidays. A swim team kickoff party is planned for May 2.

 

The BCC coaching staff prioritizes technique and efficiency, focusing on breaking down each stroke to help swimmers improve their form and performance. The team fosters a supportive atmosphere where young swimmers gain confidence and develop a love for the sport.

 

Several former BCC swimmers have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. Charlotte Eckert, now at the University of Chicago, recently participated in her conference championship at Emory in Atlanta. Charley Floyd, a standout swimmer at Tulane University, competes in multiple freestyle, backstroke and butterfly events. She earned Fall 2024 Dean’s List honors and received CSCAA Fall Scholar All-America Team honors. Campbell Baumgartner, a freshman at Connecticut College, ended her first season with personal bests in breaststroke and the 200 Individual Medley. A season highlight for her was competing against her sister, Hannah, in the 200 IM when their teams faced off.

 

This year’s team features several promising swimmers. Olivia White has been part of BCC since she was 7 and cherishes the friendships she has built through summer league swimming. Logan McIntyre, a multi-time state qualifier, trains year-round with MSA Advanced Age Group and recently attended a winter training camp at the University of North Florida. Claire Gratrix, a rising star in the program, recently moved up to the 11-12 age group after earning state times in the 9-10 division. She is known for her enthusiasm and loud cheers in support of her teammates.

 

The BCC coaching staff brings experience and dedication to the team. Jason Siri, now in his second year as head coach, has over 15 years of coaching experience in multiple sports. Other coaches include Davis Hull, a collegiate swimmer at Lenoir Rhyne University; Caroline Duhamel, a former Division I swimmer at Sacred Heart University; Eva Mosiashvili, a Charlotte Latin student and competitive swimmer with SwimMac; and Olivia Brentzel, a student at UNC Chapel Hill who is on the club swim team for the Tar Heels.

 

One of the team’s biggest rivalries is with Sardis Swim and Racquet Club. Both teams are competing in a new division this year, which will add an extra level of intensity to their long-standing competition. Themed meet nights will bring added energy to the home events, including Country Western Night, an 80s Throwback and a Blue-Out Luau.

 

The BCC Swim Team fosters camaraderie through Fun Fridays, where swimmers enjoy game-based training to build relationships while refining their skills. Parents also play a significant role in the team’s success, with many serving on the Swim Team Committee and volunteering at meets. Beyond the logistics, they provide the team’s loudest and most enthusiastic support.

 

For swimmers looking to improve in the offseason, coaches emphasize the importance of consistent practice. Those interested in further development can join a year-round swim league or take advantage of indoor pools to continue refining their technique.

 

With a strong roster of swimmers, experienced coaches and an engaged community, the BCC Barracudas are ready for another season of growth, competition and fun.