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July 15, 2025

Swimming Classes with New Jersey's Top Instructors

Prominent Achievements of Aquaracers Swim Club Members

Reporter: Youngran Lee, Editor


Photo Credit: Provided by Aquaracers


In the Aquaracers Swim Club, numerous members are making remarkable strides, setting records in the national league and gaining admission to prestigious universities such as the Naval Academy, Cornell, and Johns Hopkins.


Aquaracers: The Leading Swim Club of New Jersey

As the long summer vacation approaches, it becomes the ideal time to teach our children various sports. Among the most exhilarating sports to enjoy in summer is swimming. Imagine the opportunity for your child to learn swimming from the national coach who trained Olympic gold medalist Park Tae-hwan. It sounds like a dream! We visited Aquaracers, a club with the largest number of facilities and instructors in New Jersey.


Aquaracers Club Overview

Currently, Aquaracers boasts the highest membership among swim clubs in New Jersey. Its coaching staff comprises not only Koreans but also instructors of diverse ethnic backgrounds. The club’s membership is equally diverse, with about 15% being Korean. Michael, the coach and head of Aquaracers, attributes the club’s appeal to its excellent instructors and convenient locations.


Michael emphasizes the importance of selecting coaches who are committed to continuous learning and skill development. Aquaracers benefits from the hard training and tight coaching style typical of Korean swim coaching. Moreover, the club offers a choice of seven convenient locations, including Bergen Community College, Ramapo College, and various YMCAs, facilitating easy access to programs.


The club runs a wide range of programs for ages 5 through adults, offering levels from introductory to Pre-Team training. Many members have showcased extraordinary abilities by setting records or gaining admissions to renowned universities.


Distinguished Coaches: Yoon Kyum Yoo and Jing Li

This year, Aquaracers proudly features unique programs led by Yoon Kyum Yoo, the head coach during Park Tae-hwan’s participation in the Beijing Olympics, and Jing Li, a world championship gold medalist.


Yoon Kyum Yoo: Eminent Head Coach

With accolades such as the Baekma Award (1982) and a Presidential Commendation (1986), Yoon Kyum Yoo is a pivotal figure in South Korea’s swimming arena. He has directed national teams in various prestigious competitions, including the Asian Games and the Atlanta and Beijing Olympics.


Jing Li: World Championship Gold Medalist

Accruing 16 gold medals from 2005 to 2013 at international swimming championships, Jing Li is a celebrated figure in the swimming world. After retirement, she also trained the Chinese national team.


Interviewer: What do you believe is the most crucial quality for a swimmer?


Yoon Kyum Yoo: Flexibility is vital in swimming, and factors like physique and flexibility are often innate. Nevertheless, an athlete’s willpower is paramount. Outstanding athletes like Park Tae-hwan combined natural skill with relentless determination.


Interviewer: What role do you play at Aquaracers?


Yoon Kyum Yoo: Last year, I served as a consultant, occasionally guiding athletes. This year, as the head coach, I focus on coordinating the entire program, leading the swim and Pre-Team training, and talent scouting.


Advice to Parents:


Avoid hastily expecting results from your child. Systematic and consistent preparation is essential for a long-lasting athletic career. Short-term intensive training for competitions can yield quick results, but sustained success requires deeper investment. Encourage your child to enjoy swimming and maintain patience in their journey.


Interviewer: How did you start swimming, and when did you join Aquaracers?


Yoon Kyum Yoo: I started swimming at age seven and have dedicated my life to it. After a long stint as a national swimmer, I transitioned to coaching. I joined Aquaracers this past February.


Reflecting on your shift from athlete to coach:


Initially, in the U.S., I coached at a Manhattan club. Unfortunately, due to systemic issues, it was challenging to share my expertise with students. Joining Aquaracers has allowed me to convey my techniques effectively, thanks to Michael’s support and personalized coaching programs, enabling me to correct students' improper habits.


For inquiries and consultations:


Phone: (760) 440-7946  
Email: aquaracerswimteam@gmail.com  
Website: Aquaracers Swim Team