The Mudcats Swim Team continues to make waves, both in and out of the pool! As a year-round program, our swimmers demonstrate incredible dedication, discipline, and teamwork, and we couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments. Swimming is more than just a sport—it’s a way to build confidence, foster friendships, and develop lifelong skills.
“We have a very hard working and dedicated group of swimmers with ages ranging from 5 to 18 years of age,” stated Coach Barry Neville, “Their enthusiasm is outstanding and serves as a motivation to both their fellow teammates and coaches. They are a very fun group to work with both in and out of the water.”
Recent Accomplishments
The Mudcats recently competed in the Carolina YMCA Swim League (CYSL) Meet in Anderson, SC, on March 8, and their performances were nothing short of outstanding. Here are the highlights, sorted by age:
- Tucker Stoertz: 1st place, 6 & Under Boys
- Maggie Bonavilla: 1st place, 7-Year-Old Girls
- Joao Lima Freire: 3rd place, 7-8 Boys
- Diana Bonavilla: Tie for 3rd place, 9-10 Girls
- Graham Stoertz: 1st place, 9-10 Boys
- Mary Kate Hardaway: 2nd place, 11-12 Girls
- Michael Bonavilla: Tie for 3rd place, 11-12 Boys
- Catherine Maradei: 2nd place, 13-14 Girls
- Zoe Maradei: 3rd place, 13-14 Girls
- Jackie Bonavilla: 1st place, 15 & Over Girls
Additionally, Eddie Bonavilla was recognized as a graduating senior and received a special gift in honor of his contributions to the team.
Another highlight for the Mudcats came at the ESSZ Age Group Sectionals in Cary, NC, held March 13-16. Christian Lusardi represented the team in the 11-12 Boys division and delivered a great performance:
- 6th place: 200 Backstroke
- 7th place: 100 Backstroke
- 9th place: 50 Backstroke, 50 Butterfly, 50 Free
- 15th place: 400 IM (Individual Medley)
Celebrating Our Team
We are incredibly proud of all our swimmers for their faithfulness to this demanding year-round sport. Their commitment to training, their sportsmanship, and their ability to balance academics and athletics are truly commendable.
The Mudcats Swim Team is more than just a group of athletes—it’s a family. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for these talented swimmers as they continue to grow and achieve new milestones.
Go Mudcats! 🏊♂️💙
The Mission of the YMCA of Columbia Swim Club (Mudcats) to assist each swimmer, regardless of age or ability, in reaching their personal goals – whether it is to compete in National or State level swim meets, strengthen skills in a cross-training activity, or a means to make life-long friends. We achieve this through motivational support, teaching nationally recognized techniques, and providing quality training – both in and out of the pool. We strive to maintain a Safe Sport environment for our families by providing a safe, healthy, and positive environment for our athletes.
Maggie B.
Graham S.
