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Cougar Aquatic Team cougar
Cougar Aquatic Team · Higganum, CT · Since 1985

We inspire growth in children through competitive swimming.

Community, Character, Commitment, Confidence.

1985

Founded

40+

Years of CAT swimming

3

Practice programs

6–21

Ages we coach

The Four C's

01
Community

Swimmers, coaches, families and supporters pushing each other to excel and celebrating together.

02
Character

Integrity, discipline and resilience; sportsmanship and respect in every win and every loss.

03
Commitment

Dedication, sacrifice and perseverance: showing up and giving your best in every session.

04
Confidence

Self-belief, mental toughness and poise under pressure, built through preparation and support.

Since 1985

The history of CAT

The Cougar Aquatic Team (CAT) has a proud tradition of excellence that dates back to its founding in 1985. CAT is a year-round, USA swim team which offers professional coaching and technique instruction for swimmers of all ages and abilities with the goal of helping these young athletes develop into responsible individuals.

The CAT Mission Statement

Our mission is to create a safe and supportive environment in which every athlete is provided with opportunity, training, and encouragement to reach their full potential as swimmers and individuals. Knowledgeable and compassionate coaches work with athletes and their families to develop and maintain good sportsmanship, physical and emotional strength, and enthusiasm for the sport of swimming.

The CAT Vision Statement

CAT’s vision is to maintain a safe and inclusive program that will continue to develop swimmers prepared to participate in all levels of competition.

A group for every swimmer

Junior Group · ages 6 to 12

An introductory program for new swimmers that aims to bridge the gap between swim lessons and competitive swimming. Swimmers must be able to swim unassisted, comfortably 2 pool lengths and have working knowledge of 2 strokes. Recommended for swimmers ages 6 - 12.

Age Group · ages 10 to 14

Focuses on developing the proper techniques for the four strokes as well as starts, turns, and finishes. Swimmers are introduced to interval training and is meant for swimmers ages 10 - 14.

Senior · ages 12 to 21

Focuses on refining stroke technique while also increasing strength and endurance. Racing strategies are introduced for higher level competition and is intended for swimmers ages 12 -21.

Life at CAT

Recognized & registered

New swimmers start with an evaluation

New members will need to be evaluated before registering for the short course season. Scholarship support is available.

Questions?

Reach out! We want to hear from you. Whether you have a question about registration, our philosophy, or want to see if swimming is a good sport for your child, we are happy to chat :)