Chilton County YMCA wrapped up a preteen swim session Tuesday and could potentially hold one more session in August before school starts if enough participants sign up.

The preteen-level swim lessons are part of the Y’s annual summer swim sessions starting in early June.

Instructor Tiffanee Edwards teaches the preteen lessons, which are designed for children 6 years and older who have mastered basic swimming techniques taught at the beginner level and are ready to learn advanced techniques such as stroke mechanics.

Chilton County YMCA Executive Director Mary Beth Wyatt said the preteen lessons are the first step in the Y’s efforts to reinstate a local swim team.

“It’s a clinic to prepare young swimmers for swim team,” Wyatt said of preteen lessons. “Swimmers should have been through intermediate level swimming classes. They should be comfortable with both deep and shallow water.”

Wyatt said about six years, possibly more, have passed since the county had a swim team, and—like the extra preteen swim session possible this summer—re-establishing a swim team would depend on how many people agree to participate.

“It really depends on the interest level,” Wyatt said. “If we don’t have enough, we’re looking at partnering with other Ys in the area. We’re excited to be bringing back swim team.”

Swim lessons are open to the public regardless of membership to the Y.

The cost to participate in a preteen swim session (six classes) is $34 for members and $68 for non-members.

Class availability is based on interest. Anyone wanting to participate should call the YMCA at (205) 755-2382 as soon as possible to register.

Summer swim lessons also include beginner-level classes including a parent-child class for toddlers ages six months to 2 years, a preschool class for ages 3–5 and a youth class for ages 6–12.

Instructor Amanda Price teaches beginner lessons and said water safety and character values are incorporated into the lessons.

“Not only do they learn how to be safe in the pool environment, but they learn how to be safe in a boat and put on and take off lifejackets,” Price said. “They also learn how to play water sports and games. They learn personal safety as well.”

Class placement is based on a participant’s skill level. Advancement is based on step progression as participants master necessary skills at each level.

Those interested in swim team should call or visit the Y, located at 405 Ollie Avenue in Clanton, to be added to the list.