Swimmers splash into summer

For the second year in a row, the former rivals swimming for Lewes Yacht Club and Sussex Family YMCA have joined forces to represent one team during the Delmarva Swim Association’s 2024 summer season. 

The 196-member team opened the season June 20 at home against Sea Colony and used members’ skills and numbers to overcome their southern rival. LYC/SFY took first in 65 of the 78 events against the Sharks.

“We've been working really hard the last couple of weeks,” said coach Mike Vansant. “It's a short season, and it's kind of short to get to this point – the first meet. I think we did really well.”

The team boasts an impressive roster of teenagers, including DIAA champion Gracie Maughan and Sussex Academy’s Christian Wright, but has witnessed enormous growth in its younger ranks. Vansant said about 120 of the 196 swimmers are younger than 12 years old, which is fun, but requires a steady hand at the helm.

“It takes a lot of energy to keep up with them, but we are doing a good job, I think,” Vansant said.

In addition to the enthusiasm within the younger ranks, Vansant is noticing the experienced swimmers have come into the season better than they were at the end of the 2023 season.

“This is my third year with the yacht club, second year back with the Y, and I have seen improvement every year, and I think we’ll continue to see improvements,” Vansant said. “Those kids that swim in the Y over winter will continue to grow, and that team will continue to grow as well.”

LYC/SFY hosted Wild Quail Country Club June 24 and will travel to Salisbury Thursday, June 27, to take on the Henson Family YMCA.