JCC Sharks Start Season

When summer arrives at the JCC pool, "little fishes" can turn into big sharks - JCC Sharks, that is.

The JCC Sharks started their season with a meet on June 18 in which Leah Bates and Danielle Lane competed in the 8 and under division, 25 meters. "We had a great showing for our two little fishes," said Coach Megan Elder-McCoy. "Leah won her heat in the backstroke and came in 2nd overall, and received 6th place in Freestyle. Danielle came in 3rd in Fly and Back, and 4th in Freestyle. We are very proud of them both."

On June 25, the team had a dual meet against Hilltop and London. Leah Bates came in 2nd in the 25 meter Backstroke and 5th in 25 meter Freestyle. Dani Lane came in 3rd in the in 25 meter Fly and 5th in the 25 meter Backstrock. Candace Weiss (competing in the 9-10 age group), came in 5th in the 50 Breast and 50 Back. "Our swimmers were awesome," said Megan.

Meet the Coaches

This is Megan's first season as the JCC Swim Coach, and with her competitive swimming and swim instruction experience, she is well equipped for the position. She also is a lifeguard instructor and water safety instructor trainer for the American Red Cross.

"I started swimming competitively when I was 7 years old, and by the time I was 13, I was giving swim lessons," she said. "With 10 years of competitive swimming experience, more than 20 years of teaching kids to swim, as well as coaching for several swim teams, I have a lifetime of aquatic experience and knowledge to bring to the JCC Sharks - in addition to a great love for the sport of swimming."

Joining her as coach is Michi Deringer, who is a competitive swimmer, and JCC supervisor, lifeguard and water safety instructor.

"I really enjoy working with kids and am looking forward to a great summer of coaching," she said. "I swam competitively for 10 years, starting with age-group swimming and then summer leagues, club, and high school. I am a four-year varsity letter winner and also served as the team captain. Currently, I am studying Communication and Anthropology at the College of Wooster."

There are still spots available on the JCC Sharks Swim Team! Students age 5 through 18 who are interested in swimming competitively are invited to join the JCC Sharks as a member of the Suburban East Swim League. Registration deadline is Thursday, July 3, in order to be able to participate in the season, which runs through Saturday, July 26. Practices are held from 4 to 6 p.m., and swim meets are held at these locations. Registration forms may be downloaded by clicking here.

For more information on the JCC Sharks Swim Team, contact Megan Elder-McCoy or Jo Miller at (614) 559-6241.