The West Hartford Aquatic Team (WHAT) program had great success on the national level this summer.

WHAT Swimming ISCA Team Championship. Courtesy photo

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WHAT Swimming (West Hartford Aquatic Team) delivered another outstanding performance on the national stage, earning multiple event championships, numerous podium finishes, and a host of championship final appearances at the 2026 International Swim Coaches Association (ISCA) Summer Senior Blast, held July 28 through Aug. 1.

Competing against many of the nation’s premier swimming clubs, over 20 states and three countries, WHAT athletes showcased the dedication and championship mindset that have become the hallmark of the program. Throughout the five-day competition, swimmers advanced to A, B, and C Finals while earning victories across several events. Attending the meet for WHAT Swimming: Grace Alger, Connor Faga, Kathryn Grant, Eric Henderson, James Hill, Dylan Isakoff, Matthew Krol, Gracie Lowney, Gabriel Nazarczuk, Audrey Perevertaylo, Sadie Rubin, Pat Shea, Harrison Strou, Lila Strober, Filip Szymczyk, Samit Virmani, Viv Volenec, and Bella Zurolo.

The coaching staff believes the team’s success is built on much more than medals and championships.

“We are incredibly proud of how our athletes competed throughout the week,” said head coach Rob Riccobon. “Championship meets reward preparation, resilience, and confidence. Our swimmers embraced every opportunity, supported one another, and represented WHAT Swimming with tremendous class. The results are exciting, but what makes this group special is the culture they’ve built together.”

ISCA team dinner. Courtesy photo

Assistant coach, Matt Walker, emphasized the program’s commitment to long-term athlete development.

“Success at this level is the product of thousands of hours of work. Our athletes continue to trust the process, and they understand that improvement comes from doing the little things every day. Watching them compete against some of the best swimmers in the country and perform at this level is incredibly rewarding.”

The performances at ISCA Summer Senior Blast continue an exceptional year for WHAT Swimming. Earlier this season, the club was recognized by USA Swimming as a 2026 Club Excellence Program recipient, placing WHAT among the nation’s top-performing age-group swimming organizations. The recognition reflects the club’s commitment to developing athletes both in and out of the water.

The coaching staff credits the team’s continued success to the partnership between athletes, coaches, and families.

“Our philosophy has always been to develop the whole athlete,” Riccobon said. “Fast swimming is the outcome of great habits, accountability, teamwork, and a willingness to embrace challenges. Every practice matters. Every detail matters.”

The team’s culture is reflected in two messages that have become guiding principles throughout the 2026 season:

• The Podium is Built in Practice.
• #IDIA — I Did It Anyway.

As WHAT Swimming concludes another successful championship season, the coaching staff remains focused on continued growth, preparing athletes for future national-level competition while developing confident, resilient young people through the sport of swimming.

About WHAT Swimming

Founded in West Hartford, Connecticut, WHAT Swimming (West Hartford Aquatic Team) is a nationally recognized USA Swimming club committed to developing swimmers of all ages and abilities. The program emphasizes excellence in the pool while fostering character, leadership, discipline, and teamwork. Through a partnership with athletes and families, WHAT Swimming continues to produce state, regional, and national-level competitors while promoting lifelong success both in and out of the water.

For more information about WHAT swimming, visit the website.

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