The Summerland Aquatic Centre is busy as more members are joining the Orca Swim Club this year.
Joanne Malar, coach of the swim club, said more than 90 swimmers were enrolled last year. This year, enrolment is around 110 swimmers.
“Almost every single age group is almost at capacity,” she said.
The increased interest in the swim club means Malar had to start a waiting list near the start of this year’s swimming season.
Six children were on the list.
As a result of rescheduling and moving some swimmers into new categories, Malar was able to accommodate all.
She said a few of the swimmers may compete at high levels in the future, possibly at a national or Olympic level.
Two swimmers recently participated at a Swim BC regional camp.
Last year, several competed at the AA and AAA levels.
This year, Malar said she has a goal of sending between six and 12 swimmers to that level of competition.
For all the swimmers, the program teaches useful techniques they can use in the future.
“It’s a skill they’ll have for the rest of their lives,” she said.
In addition to the skills training and fitness benefits, the program also provides a social element for the participants.
“The kids have so much fun in the pool,” she said.
This month, swimmers will compete in three meets, in Shuswap, Vernon and Kelowna.