Swim team dominates

The combined Pine Tree-Levite JCC Piranhas Summer Swim Team continued its unbroken winning streak Tuesday when it dominated the pool against Country Club of Birmingham, Iron Otters, Riverchase Country Club, and Vestavia Swim Association.

Final top-three team scores were 706 for the Piranhas, 71 for Riverchase, and 38 for the Otters. The top three individual scorers of the meet were all Piranhas: Ben Hughes, Sarah Ruth Hughes, and Daniel Ward. Tuesday’s meet continued the team’s impressive string of victories so far this season.

“The kids are having an exceptional season — handling the pressure and swimming great,” says Levite JCC Athletics and Aquatics Programs Director Kirsten “Coach K” Thomas. “The competition just can’t catch its breath.”

Under the leadership of Coach John Besse, the program continues to thrive while growing to 68 swimmers. “Coach John and his outstanding staff of assistant coaches are working tirelessly to maintain a top-tier competitive environment,” adds Coach K. 

The aquatic athletes have trained diligently Mondays through Fridays, with additional Sunday training sessions throughout the summer. The dedication has led to many swimmers achieving Senior County qualifying times, one of the highest accomplishments for their respective age groups.

“And beyond the wins, the season has been marked by athlete development, great sportsmanship, and strong team camaraderie,” says Coach K.


Learn more about the swim and dive teams and sign up…