2008-2009

Dear JO Parents, Divers, and Friends:

Welcome to New Canaan YMCA Whirlwind Diving, a year-round program that focuses on the development of proper diving mechanics, as well as enhancing and strengthening core individual diving skills-all within the realm of a safe and motivating environment.

I would first like to take this opportunity to welcome back our returning athletes, and to extend an invitation for any interested individual who is looking to participate in our unique program that combines athletics, camaraderie, and fun!

I am also pleased to announce the return of our dedicated coaching staff, consisting of Sergey Meshcherskiy, Associate Diving Director, Wes Mattice, Corinne Houston and Julie Warburg, all of whom are as excited as I am to begin the 2008-2009 Season.

2007-2008 Season was a huge success!  Congratulation to Elizabeth Fitzpatrick for placing 1st at Junior Nationals on three meter.  In addition, Whirlwind Diving also had six high school All Americans; Carlin Dacey, Carolyn DiMarco, Alex Leinroth, Philip Morehouse, Mark O’Connell and Brad Schott – great job!  As a team, Whirlwind Diving placed 5th at East Junior Nationals and had a great showing at Summer Speedo Nationals.  This resulted in two of our athlete’s, Lee Christensen and Lizzie Fitzpatrick, representing Team USA in Leeds, England.

This season is full of potential for new and returning divers.  Our video analysis system, Gymnastics for Diving and Pilates for Diving opportunities, along with state-of-the-art equipment and an exciting desire to help young athletes exceed their goals in and out of the water, this is sure to be a great year.  For a competitive challenge, we will participate in numerous sanctioned United States Diving and AAU events throughout the season.  The individual level of the athlete will indicate which events they will compete.

It is my goal as the Head Coach, as well as the entire coaching staff, to ensure that the divers will benefit from our knowledge and to provide positive experiences that will stay with these athletes for a lifetime.  Please visit our website at www.ncywwd.com.  I look forward to working with all of you this year, and if you have any questions or concerns before registration begins, please feel free to contact me at (203) 966-4528 ext. 159 or at .

Sincerely,

Joseph J. Somma, Jr.

Joseph J. Somma, Jr.
Head Diving Coach