ORONO — Black Bear Aquatics, a new USA Swimming club that emphasizes stroke development and technique, began its first practice recently at the University of Maine’s Wallace Pool.
The youth club was created this summer by Michael Sever, who is also an assistant swim coach at the University of Maine.
“I believe the key differentiator about BBA compared to other local clubs is our keen focus on stroke development and technique,” Sever said in a news release. “We have tremendous
coaching depth and are proud to be based at one of the best aquatic facilities in Maine.”
Black Bear Aquatics is a technique-based development program for all ages.
“Our members as young as 6 start with stroke fundamentals — we want to teach safe and effective habits from the start,” said Sever. “Stroke development is critical at all age levels — I’ve seen too many technique-related injuries develop in older kids. Our focused approach helps athletes reach their highest individual potential and minimize injury.”
The club practices at Wallace Pool and will compete in many local and regional USA Swimming competitions.
The club’s mission is to provide technical development and racing skills for all age levels, according to Sever.
Before coming to UMaine, Sever was the head coach of men’s swimming at the University of Rhode Island and the head coach of Triton Swimming. He is joined by veteran coach John Williams and four-time UMaine scholar athlete Linda Costello.
Williams is a former head coach of Brewer High School and the Hurricane Swim Club. Costello is the former head coach of a club based in Virginia and a former UMaine team captain.
Over the last two weeks, the club held “BBA Boot Camp,” a mini stroke clinic that gave swimmers a preseason opportunity to tune up stroke technique and participate in team building activities.
Those seeking more information about the club may visit swimbba.com or call Sever at 581-1080.