Swimmons Academy – Learn to Swim at BGCR Danbury
Swimmons Academy is the BGCR Danbury Clubhouse’s official Learn‑to‑Swim program, created to teach children life‑saving water‑safety skills, confidence in and around the water, and strong foundational stroke technique.
Led by our Aquatics Director and former Division I swimmer, Shayne Simmons, the Academy offers a supportive, fun, and progression‑based environment where every swimmer learns at their own pace.
Our approach prioritizes:
- Water Safety: Breath control, floating, safe entries/exits, and personal survival skills
- Stroke Development: Proper body position, efficient kicking, and strong foundational freestyle/backstroke
- Confidence Building: Positive instruction that helps every swimmer feel comfortable and capable
- Professional Coaching: Technique‑focused guidance from a nationally trained aquatics professional
Swim Level Structure
Skill‑Based Placement, Not Age‑Based
Our curriculum ensures swimmers are placed in the level that best matches their ability—creating a safe, comfortable space for growth at any age.
Bronze – Water Comfort & Beginner Skills
Ideal for new swimmers just starting their aquatic journey.
Swimmers learn:
- Assisted front and back floating
- Safe entries and exits
- Breath control and gentle submersion
- Basic comfort and confidence in the water
- Intro to simple propulsion
Bronze+ (Ages 9+) – Older Beginner Development
Perfect for older beginners who are new to swimming.
Includes all Bronze‑level skills, plus:
- Age‑appropriate teaching communication
- Faster progression toward independent floating
- Confidence building without feeling “too old” to start
Silver – Independent Movement & Early Stroke Skills
For swimmers comfortable in the water who can float on their own.
Skills include:
- Independent back and front floats
- Streamlined glides and body position
- Early freestyle and backstroke movements
- Swimming short distances with calm breathing
Gold – Stroke Refinement & Endurance Building
Designed for swimmers ready to refine their technique.
Swimmers develop:
- Freestyle with side breathing
- Backstroke alignment and steady kick
- Intro to whip kick and competitive movements
- Greater endurance and distance swimming
- Deep‑water safety and confidence
Champions – Pre‑Competition Training
Our highest level, preparing swimmers for competitive pathways.
Training includes:
- Advanced freestyle and backstroke technique
- Intro to breaststroke and butterfly
- Flip turns, streamlines, and competitive starts
- Endurance building, pacing, and stroke efficiency
Session Structure & Pricing
4‑Week Sessions
- 8 total classes (2 per week)
- Small‑group instruction led by Aquatics Director Shayne Simmons
- Consistent progression through safety, skills, and stroke development
Pricing
$220 per session
* Sibling Discount: 20% off full rate of 2nd admitted child and any child after