Welcome to the MACR Sharks

Competitive Swimming has been an integral part of the YMCA movement both nationally and locally for many years. Competitive Swimming at the Cedar Rapids YMCA can be traced back to its beginnings in the 1940’s. The sport and the teams have undergone many changes and evolutions over the years, but there remains one constant – swimming is a terrific way to deliver the mission of the YMCA. From skill development to social development and competitive opportunities to volunteer opportunities, swimming is a sport that offers individual and team growth as well as an activity that the entire family can be involved in.

The current version of this swim team, the MACR Sharks, is now just one of three local YMCA teams. Competitive programs are offered at all three of the area YMCA’s. Just ten years ago the MACR Sharks were the only YMCA swimming team in the metro Cedar Rapids area with around 140 total swimmers participating in winter program and fewer than 40 in the summer program. Now there are three teams with close to 275 total participants enjoying the benefits of America’s number one Olympic sport. Additional programs include developmental teams, swimming “camps”, and competitive stroke clinics. Private swim training is also available with extremely knowledgeable and experienced staff.

So, if you are interested in participating in a terrific sport both for its physical benefits and unique way of developing important life skills, then swimming is worth your consideration. The YMCA is proud of its role in developing young athletes and young community members. Enjoy the web site and we look forward to hearing from you soon. We encourage new swimmers to call the head coach and set up a stroke analysis appointment. Please call the Helen G. Nassif YMCA at 319-366-6421 and ask for Paul Brown at extension 125.

2011-2012 Season

Head Coach Paul Brown leads a dynamic team of assistant coaches and instructors that focuses on improving the technique and racing skills of all Sharks swimmers. The coaching staff consists of various coaches geared for all levels of swimmers within the team. We are excited for another great season of swimming and look forward to working with each swimmer. This season we will have eight dual/triangular swimming meets against various YMCA teams from around the state. Those meets will lead to our Sectional Championship meet in February. The State Championship meet will be held on March 3rd and 4th at the Marshalltown YMCA.

Our Coach's Philosophy

To improve and develop the swimming technique of all participants in an atmosphere of fun. To serve as a stepping stone from ‘learn to swim’ programs into club and high school swimming, maintaining swimmers’ interest and fostering quality technique and lifelong participation in the sport.