Swim team in 13th season

Competitive swimming has returned for a 13th summer at the Coudersport Community Pool.

Although participation is down, the swim program - operated entirely by volunteers - remains true to its original mission, according to Cindy Capatch, who helped to establish the team in 1995 and has been involved ever since.

"Here in Coudersport, and throughout our entire league, the goals are the same," Capatch said. "We are teaching the kids to swim, to always do their best, to have fun, and to not get too consumed by who wins or loses. They are all winners in our eyes and we coaches are very proud of every one of them."

Participation in Coudersport peaked at about 120 several years ago, but has fallen to about 35 - ages 5 through 18 - this summer. Some Austin area children have also joined the team.

Port Allegany, Emporium and several other communities have seen a reduction in numbers over the past few years, but they're determined to continue the sport.

Capatch focuses her attention on the diving team. Long-time coach Don Kudrick is in charge of the swimming competition and running the meets. His wife, Kim Kudrick, organizes the concession stand and takes care of logistics.

Don Kudrick is one of the faithful volunteers serving as a coach and meet organizer for the Coudersport Swim Team. Among this year's members is Brett Rohrer, son of Randy and Belinda Rohrer, competing in age 9-10 events. Lugene Heimel photos

Patti Hau, Ben Capatch, Sarah Monger, Tony Capatch and swimmers' and divers' parents also help as timers, scorekeepers and in other capacities.

Those athletes who are especially determined to succeed have found that the coaches will devote much of their personal time to help. A handful of Coudersport Swim Team alumni, most recently Stephanie Kudrick and Nick Keagle, have continued their careers at the collegiate level.

The public is welcome to attend the meets and cheer on the local swimmers and divers. Coudersport has a home meet on Tuesday evening, then travels to Bradford on Thursday.

League championship competition will be held at the Bradford/Barcroft pool July 27-28.