Kirsten “Coach K” Thomas, director of athletics and aquatics programming here at The J, has announced that the LJCC Barracudas and Pine Tree Piranhas swim teams will merge for the summer.
“There’s no better swim coach around than John Besse, and while he’s done a fantastic job with our year-round swimmers, we always lose him to Pine Tree for the summer,” Coach K explains. “This new partnership will allow our summer Barracuda swimmers to benefit from his leadership during the very competitive summer season.”
All members of the merged group will swim as Piranhas as they benefit from The J’s top-notch facilities.
“Both clubs are thrilled about this opportunity!” says John, who has been coaching at The J for nearly four decades. The J boasts a six-lane indoor competition pool for evening practices and swim meets, plus a six-lane outdoor pool for additional meets. “This setup will help us run swim meets more efficiently and provide ample space for spectators,” John adds, and the LJCC’s large parking lot and snack bar will make everyone’s visit more enjoyable.
John also notes the new team’s “excellent coaching staff,” with at least four coaches present at each practice.
The Barracudas Dive Team will remain independent as its members train alongside the Piranhas Dive Team. The two teams will compete in weekly dual dive meets.