YMCA of Catawba Valley

Senior Aquatics Director, Jon Jolley

Aquatics Director, Zach Finley

Aquatic Information

Communication: Our goal is to have your child succeed! If you are unsure of where to place your child, please call Elaine Bunton at 324-2858 for helpful tips or testing. You are encouraged to spend time with our instructors. We welcome any questions, comments, or concerns that you may have.
Flotation Policies: Children wearing flotation devices must be accompanied by an adult. Only flotation devices approved by the U.S. Coast Guard or flotation noodles for instruction are approved for use in the pool. Inflatable flotation devices are not permitted in the pool.

Level I
Preschool - ( 3 - 5 years) This class is for the first time swimmer or one with little experience. It is also designed as a water introductory class. Swimmers learn the fundamentals of swimming, pool, and water safety skills, and increase their self-confidence as they become more comfortable in the water.

Level II
Pike - ( 3 - 5 years) This class is for the advanced beginner who is ready to learn front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke, and front/back float. Instructors review all pool rules and water safety skills, with an introduction to reaching and throwing assists, as well as PFD safety.

Level III
Polliwog - ( 6 - 12 years) This class is for older swimmers with little to no swimming ability. As a polliwog, children are taught front and back crawl, rhythmic breathing, and elementary backstroke. Instructors also review all pool and water safety skills.

Level IV
Guppy - ( 6 - 12 years) This class is for the more advanced swimmer who is already able to swim 25 yards of both front and back crawl. As a guppy, swimmers refine their crawl strokes, and are introduced to breaststroke and treading water.

Level V
Minnow - ( 6 -12) This is an excellent class for advanced swimmers who are ready to perfect their strokes. Swimmers master front and back crawl, breaststroke, and are introduced to butterfly. Instructors work on building speed and endurance. There is also a review of all pool rules and water safety skills.