Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – June 12, 2024 – The Shark Wave Aquatic Team (SWAT) is a premier swim program in Northeast Arkansas, dedicated to promoting swimmers’ physical development, self-discipline, team loyalty, cooperation, and sportsmanship.

This family-oriented team fosters unique relationships among swimmers, often leading to lifelong friendships. SWAT, a USA Swimming and AAU registered club, competes both locally and nationally, providing a platform for swimmers of all ages to excel and develop life skills that they can carry into adulthood.

SWAT opened the South Wind Swim Conference’s summer AAU season with an overall win last Saturday in Paragould, as well as first place finishes in the men’s and women’s divisions.

Founding and Background

SWAT was founded just over two years ago by three local moms and former competitive swimmers: Brooke Booker, Katie Rae Guinn, and Kirby Smith. Their goal was to grow the sport of swimming in Jonesboro and recreate the positive experiences they had as children for their own kids. Under the direction of Head Swim Coach Will Green, the team has grown quickly, with more than 120 swimmers as they head into the summer season.

Coach Green said “I love getting to share my passion of swimming with others and it’s really amazing to see others develop their own love for the sport. I absolutely love working with kids of all ages and I get to do that every day. There is nothing more rewarding than getting to be a part of and witness things like them doing something for the first time that they thought they couldn’t, making new best friends in the water with their teammates, putting in the work at practice, and reaching goals they’ve set.”

All three founders have deep roots in swimming and have passed their passion for the sport to their children and many others in the community. Smith, a former AAU coach of Jets Aquatics Club and a lifelong swim instructor, emphasized the importance of swimming as a family sport. Her husband and children, who are also involved in swimming, share that same enthusiasm.

Booker has a lifelong connection to swimming, having competed and taught lessons from a young age. 

Guinn, a multi-sport athlete and physical therapist, also has a long history in swimming and has volunteered extensively in the local swim community. 

SWAT Growth and Accomplishments

Since its inception, SWAT has made significant strides in the competitive swimming world. The team placed 2nd at the South Wind Swim Conference Finals in both 2022 and 2023 and won the Ugly Sweater Meet in 2022, with the men’s team taking 1st place in 2023. They also secured 1st place at the First Chance Winter Meet in 2022 and achieved multiple podium finishes at the ARSI Short & Long Course Championships in 2023 and 2024. With 120 active swimmers and more joining each week, SWAT’s growth reflects its strong community support and effective coaching.

Coaching Philosophy and Community Impact

Coach Will Green brings a wealth of experience to SWAT, having coached standout swimmers like University of Arkansas swimmer Bella Cothern, who recently made an Olympic Trials time cut in the 50 free. Green’s coaching philosophy focuses on creating a supportive, fun, and laid-back atmosphere at practices, emphasizing the development of a love for swimming among athletes of all ages.

“SWAT is a really special swim program because of the sense of community and our supportive group of parents. We really try to focus on the kids first,” says Coach Green. He takes great pride in seeing swimmers achieve milestones they once thought impossible, form lasting friendships, and reach personal goals through dedication and hard work.

Founders’ Vision and Dedication

The founders’ vision for SWAT was to create a family-friendly, competitive swim team rooted in Christian values. They dedicated significant time and effort to establishing the team, securing pool space, and organizing the necessary protocols and documents. Their hard work paid off, as SWAT now serves a growing number of families and provides a positive, supportive environment for swimmers of all skill levels.

Smith, Booker, and Guinn are proud of the team’s accomplishments and the strong sense of community they have built. “Swimming isn’t just a sport, it’s a family,” says Booker. “I don’t think I would have had the self-discipline, work ethic, or the dedication to succeed in life without the skills taught to me from swimming.”

Smith and Booker serve on SWAT’s Board of Directors, along with Audrey Hanes, Leslie Cothern, and Will and Caitlin Green.

Programs and Opportunities

Summer is a particularly exciting time for SWAT, with morning practices outdoors and afternoon practices at multiple sites. The team participates in AAU meets within the well-established South Wind Swim Conference, offering competitive and enjoyable experiences for swimmers. SWAT’s continuous open swim assessments ensure that new swimmers can join at any time, with rates starting at just $70 per month and no additional fees, making the sport accessible to a broad community. Many Shark Wave are new to the sport, with all ages and abilities welcome; the youngest swimmer on the team is 3 years old, and there is a masters program for adults.

Shark Wave Aquatic Team stands out for its commitment to promoting the sport of swimming, developing life skills, and fostering a sense of community among its members. With a supportive environment and a growing roster of talented swimmers, SWAT continues to make waves in the competitive swimming world. So, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or new to the sport, SWAT offers a welcoming and enriching experience for all.

For more information, visit SWAT Jonesboro.