August 6, 2024 -- The Madison Area YMCA is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kevin Carney as the new Competitive Aquatics Director and Head Coach of the Madison Area YMCA Mariners Swim Team. With an impressive history in competitive swimming and coaching, Kevin brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the team. 

Kevin has been involved with the Aqua Gems in Warwick, NY, for the past 20 years. Most recently, Kevin worked as a special education teacher at a private special needs school in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ, and resides in Denville, NJ. 

He started as a swimmer and moved into coaching, serving as an assistant coach and later head coach with Aqua Gems from 2010 to 2018. As a swimmer, he was a multi-time Senior Met and US Sectional Qualifier. Kevin's high school swimming career at Vernon Township was equally distinguished; he was a County Champion in the 500 Free and 200 IM, placed 15th in New Jersey in the 100 Back, and was part of the All-American 400 Free Relay team that placed second at the NJ Meet of Champions, earning All-State honors.  

Kevin continued his swimming career at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, PA, where he shattered 13 school records and was named MVP three times. He consistently medaled at collegiate championship meets, specializing in the 400 IM and 1650 Free. Kevin was recognized as the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division 3 Swimmer of the Week during his junior year.  

From 2018 – 2024, Kevin successfully coached the North Jersey Barracudas.  

"I am thrilled to be a part of the Madison Area YMCA family," said Kevin Carney. "The YMCA's core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility resonate deeply with me, and I am eager to foster an environment that reflects these values for the Mariners Swim Team. I look forward to working with our young athletes and helping them achieve their personal and competitive goals." 

Yean Jimenez, Senior Aquatics Director at the Madison Area YMCA, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition: "Kevin's dedication to swimming and coaching excellence makes him a perfect fit for our team. His experience and commitment to developing swimmers align with our mission to nurture the potential of every child. We are confident that Kevin will elevate the Mariners Swim Team to new heights." 

The Madison Area YMCA Mariners Swim Team provides a year-round opportunity for competitive swimming in both YMCA and USA Swimming leagues. The team consists of girls and boys aged 6 years old through high school seniors, with the primary competitive season running from September through March. Summer clinics are available for aspiring Mariners. 

Upcoming Mariners Tryouts: