Big news is making waves at the Madison Area YMCA! The Jersey Manta Rays have officially joined the Madison Area YMCA family as the newly rebranded Madison Area YMCA Rays Artistic Swimming Team. The same experienced coaching staff led by Bryanna Fogel, Madelyn Rinaldo, and Andrea Diaz continues to deliver a positive, competitive, and character-building youth sports experience.
“We’re excited to welcome a new wave of swimmers to the Madison Area YMCA Rays Artistic Swimming Team,” said Head Coach Bryanna Fogel. “Artistic swimming, often called the ultimate team sport, combines the best of swimming, gymnastics, and dance into a dynamic and expressive athletic discipline.”
The Rays Artistic Swimming Team is an inclusive program open to athletes ages 6–18, boys and girls, and welcomes swimmers of all backgrounds and identities in a supportive, non-discriminatory environment. Known for blending strength, artistry, and teamwork, artistic swimming challenges athletes to perform synchronized, music-driven routines that demand the precision of dance and the power of gymnastics, all while showcasing the grace of swimming.
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Tryout registration for the 2025–2026 season (September through May) is now open. Visit madisonareaymca.org/aquatics for more information today!
Date: Wednesday, August 27
Ages 6–10: 5:30–6:00 PM
Ages 10–18: 6:00–6:30 PM
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Location: Madison Area YMCA Walker D. Kirby Aquatics Center
Minimum Requirements:
- Ages 10 & Under: Swim 25 yards of continuous freestyle.
- Ages 10 & Over: Swim 50 yards of continuous freestyle.
Swimmers should bring a cap, goggles, and a positive attitude. Those not yet ready for the team may be encouraged to join the YMCA’s Introduction to Artistic Swimming class this fall.
For more information, contact Caitlin Balagtas, Associate Aquatics Director, at (973) 822-9622 ext. 225 or cbalagtas@madisonymca.org.
About the Madison Area YMCA
As a mission-driven charitable organization and community wellness center, the Madison Area YMCA is dedicated to nurturing the potential of our youth, providing a safe space for teens, improving the community’s health and well-being, and giving back by providing support to our neighbors. For more information about financial assistance or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit our website at www.madisonareaymca.org.
