Artistic Swimming now at the YMCA
Goal To Create Registered Artistic Swimming Club
This winter, the YMCA of Frederick County began an Artistic Swimming Club in the hopes of building a competitive youth program. The program is open to those ages 8-14 and is taught by Jessica Gearhart.
Artistic Swimming, formerly and more commonly known as Synchronized Swimming, has been admired since its start in the early 1900s. Artistic Swimming, honored for its uniqueness and beauty, is the perfect combination of swimming, dance, music, and gymnastics! Moreover, artistic swimmers require strength, endurance, flexibility, and artistry. Countless other benefits include, but are not limited to, physical fitness, self-confidence, teamwork, and creativity.
“We are very excited to be able to bring this new and unique programming to our members and community. Although there are hundreds of clubs and competitive programs across the US, nothing currently exists in the Frederick County, MD area,” says Aquatics Director Samm Meddaugh.
Jessica Gearhart is the Artistic Swimming instructor. Gearhart is also a music teacher with Frederick County Public Schools and was a competitive artistic swimmer. She was ALL – Conference and MVP in High School, National Collegiate Finalist with the University of Minnesota, and a Grand Master competitor. Jessica has coached State Champion athletes at the high school, college, and master’s level.
“It is my goal to generate interest for this amazing sport and challenge our local youth to discover their hidden passions and talents through Artistic Swimming,” says Gearhart.
In Summer 2022, the Y will facilitate two one-week-long artistic swimming camps scheduled for June 20 – 24, and July 18 – 22 at the Natelli Family Y. Summer Camp registration opens with the Summer Camp Open House on Feb. 12, 2022, from 10am-2pm.
