On October 26, the Morgan Family YMCA will host the much-anticipated Annual Spooky Looky Swim Meet, welcoming 175 talented swimmers from 13 teams across the region.
This is more than just a fun event—it’s a serious competition where athletes are eyeing regional and national qualifications to ultimately make their mark on the big stage.
Local Talent, Big Dreams
The swimmers competing at this meet are some of the best and brightest in our area, ranging from young kids to teens, many of whom swim for their schools as well.
For some, the Spooky Looky Swim Meet represents an extra layer of training and competition, pushing their limits as they prepare for bigger competitions. Whether they’re representing their school teams or the Y, these athletes are determined to reach the next level in their sport.
Coach Janice Haanio: A Dedication to Excellence
For over nine years, Janice Haanio, the head coach of the Morgan Family Y swim team, has been the driving force behind the program. Janice’s leadership and passion for the sport have helped countless swimmers improve their skills and work toward their goals.
Coach Haanio’s dedication shines through in everything she does, including perfecting strokes, setting personal records, and keeping the team motivated.
“Seeing these kids grow from meet to meet, from practice to practice, is truly rewarding. It’s not just about swimming; it’s about teaching them perseverance, teamwork, and how to overcome challenges—skills they can carry with them far beyond the pool,” said Haanio.
Volunteer Parents Make It Happen
One of the most unique aspects of our local swim meets is that many of the officials are volunteer parents, trained to help ensure that the competition runs smoothly, and that each swimmer’s times are officially recorded. The community spirit here is remarkable, and parents play a huge role in making these events successful.
“It’s incredible to watch these kids grow and achieve their personal best,” said Chayla, a parent who volunteers regularly as a meet official. “Being involved in the meet, helping to ensure everything runs on time and smoothly.”
A Track Record of Success
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties' swim team has a history of producing top-tier athletes, with many of their swimmers going on to participate in regional and national events, earning positions on college swim teams, and even competing in Olympic trials.
It demonstrates the program's commitment to greatness and the encouragement these swimmers receive from their coaches and family. As the Spooky Looky Swim Meet approaches, we are thrilled to see these athletes compete.
Many are focused on the prize: qualifying for higher-level meets where they may exhibit their abilities to a larger audience—and possibly become the next great star in competitive swimming!
Learn more about the Morgan Sea Dragons: https://www.ymcapkc.org/aquatics/swim-team/morgan-sea-dragons