NORWICH — October 26 saw the return of the Norwich YMCA Dolphins Swim Team for the 2025 season, with a meet in Auburn at the Terror on the Blocks Invitational. The team racked up an impressive 26 personal best times encompassing 2 minutes and 8 seconds worth of collective time drops, with nine swimmers qualifying for the State Championship meet in 22 events.

“We are starting off strong and the hard work our swimmers have been putting in shows. Many are starting off either as fast or faster than they were last year. Plus, they are eager to take on new challenges in different events and strokes which is increasing our depth,” said Head Coach Eric Diefenbacher.

State qualifying swimmers include Emma Harmyk and Gideon Matthew for the eight &under age group, Nora Diefenbacher, Reigan Aikins, Kennedy Foulds, Adeline Vazquez, and Laura Coye for the 9-10 age group, and Maggie Williams and Kate Hull for the 11-12 age group

Soon after, the Dolphins swam their first home meet on November 1 at the Norwich YMCA. The now 40 plus member team continued their accomplishments with another round of collective time drop at 2 minutes and 17 seconds, 32 personal best times, two additional swimmers qualifying for the State championship meet, and nine more State qualifying swims.

The November 1 home meet also saw the debut of the Dolphins new pilot program the “MiniDolphins.” This program is comprised of six year olds with the goal of closing the gap between swim lessons and competitive swimming.

“We recognized a need whereby swimmers phasing out of swim lessons at a young age needed someplace to go next with their love of the water,” Diefenbacher said. “Our MiniDolphins program teaches the fundamentals of competitive swimming in a fun and busy way to help these little swimmers excel in the sport.”

Judging by the smiles on the young swimmers faces and the packed stands, this program is off to a great start. State qualifying swimmers from the November 1 meet include Lawton Ferris for the 9-10 age group and Tim Guzewich for the 15& over age group. The Dolphins continue their season again this Saturday November 8 in Fulton in a tri-meet against the Fulton Speed Demons and the Oneonta Orcas.

-Information from the YMCA Dolphins