A Team Built on Values
Dive into fun and fitness with the FCYST Orcas at the YMCA of the Fox Cities! Our year-round swimming program welcomes swimmers of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to national competitors. With a focus on building character, fostering friendships, and cultivating a love for the sport, the FCYST team is all about creating a positive and encouraging swim community. Swimmers can practice 4-5 days a week, depending on their age and goals—whether they’re here for fun or ready to compete! Come make a splash with us and see how far you can go!
What You Need to Know
Whether your swimmer is new to competitive swimming or a seasoned athlete, the Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team has a place for them. Here is everything you need to know before joining.
Prerequisites to Join
The Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team is open to swimmers ages 5–19 who can swim 25 yards continuously in both freestyle and backstroke, and who have successfully completed Level 6 of school-age swim lessons. A current YMCA of the Fox Cities membership is required for participation.
What to Bring and Wear
Arrive at practice dressed and ready for the pool. Clothes, bags and personal items should be stored in the locker room — please bring your own lock and leave valuables at home. A family-appropriate, clean swimsuit and swim attire is required, along with sandals or flip flops in the pool area, a towel and goggles.
Learn More About Joining FCYST
Joining a YMCA swim team is a great way for youth to build confidence, improve skills, and be part of a supportive team environment. Whether your child is new to competitive swimming or looking to grow as an athlete, our swim teams provide coaching, structure, and fun along the way.
What Makes Our Team Special
The Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team is more than a competitive program — it is a community. Here is what sets our team apart.
All Levels Welcome
Our program develops swimmers of all ages and abilities, from first-time competitors to athletes pursuing their highest potential.
Values-Based Coaching
Our coaches foster a team environment that emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, while building lasting friendships and upholding the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Individual & Team Growth
Swimming is both an individual and team sport. Our athletes are challenged to achieve their personal best while contributing to the overall success and culture of the team.
Summer Meets
For over 20 years, the Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team has hosted Summer Classic and Bird Bath, premier outdoor swim meets in the state of Wisconsin.
Summer Meets
Join us this summer at Erb Park Pool!
The Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team proudly hosts two premier outdoor meets—the Summer Classic and the Bird Bath—at Appleton’s state-of-the-art 50-meter competition facility. Known for fast swims and a great atmosphere, these meets draw teams and athletes from across Wisconsin and beyond.
- Summer Classic: Kick off the season with a fun, fast-paced prelim–final meet and great early racing opportunities.
- Bird Bath: A 20+ year tradition and Wisconsin’s premier outdoor meet, celebrating competition, community, and team spirit.
Whether you’re chasing cuts, building race experience, or enjoying the energy of outdoor swimming, these events offer something for everyone.
Come race. Compete with the best. Be part of the tradition.
Questions About the Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team
The Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team is open to swimmers ages 6 and up.
Yes, membership at the YMCA of the Fox Cities is required to participate on the swim team. Visit our membership page or speak with your nearest branch for more information.
Swimmers must be able to swim 25 yards continuously in both freestyle and backstroke, and who have successfully completed Level 6 of school-age swim lessons. Our program welcomes athletes at all competitive levels, from beginners to experienced competitors.
You can register by visiting the Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team website. Reach out to the coaching staff for more information about joining.
The Fox Cities YMCA Swim Team trains at four pool locations across the Fox Cities; Appleton YMCA, Neenah-Menasha YMCA, Erb Park, and Lawrence University.
