Ohana Swim Team is a value-driven, coach-inspired, adult-governed nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation located in Tacoma, Washington.  We are a proud member in good standing with USA Swimming and its local affiliate Pacific Northwest Swimming.

Ohana was founded in February, 2007 by a large group of skilled swim coaches and visionary parents who desire a different kind of competitive swim team. 

Our team strives to win using the timeless values of OHANA:

OWNERSHIP. We will participate in activities which promote our team.
HONOR. We will show respect for our coaches, parents, and leaders.
ACHIEVEMENT. We will do great things in and out of the water.
NEGOTIATION. We will resolve differences maturely.
AFFIRMATION. We will focus on each other’s strengths.

Seeking to encourage well-rounded growth in every swimmer,

we collectively pursue Ohana values within the Honu Circle.

                     THE HONU CIRCLE

                                                        (by Coach Dan Balderson)

The Honu must grow strong in all appendages. 

If it neglects one to strengthen the other, it will become weak and imbalanced in the strong ocean currents.  Likewise, the swimmer must pursue growth evenly in these five core areas of life or risk becoming imbalanced. 

Balance helps the Honu develop a stronger, healthier shell. 

Likewise, the balanced swimmer develops inner strength

for dealing with adversity and for grasping opportunities.

All members of Ohana Swim Team recognize that the core values of the Honu Circle cannot only be taught, they must be caught as they are demonstrated in their behavior toward

each other and the greater community.