The Bethlehem Stingrays summer swim team opened their season on June 15 when they hosted the Whitehall Waves at Memorial Pool for competition in the Suburban Swim League of the Greater Lehigh Valley (see story on page A9).

“We are fortunate to once again have quite a large team, around 145 swimmers, with a nice breakdown of numbers between all age groups,” said Stingrays head coach Evan Kocon, who is entering his 11th season.

Kocon will be assisted by Diana Kocon, Laurie Muller, Chris Black, and Sammy Taylor. Kocon’s wife Elyssa will assist on occasion as she is taking care of her and Evan’s two small children.

“I am very pleased with the high numbers that we have, especially in the 10 & Under and 8 & Under age groups,” said Kocon. “This bodes well for not only the future of our team, but more importantly, the future of the sport of swimming in the Lehigh Valley.”

The Stingrays, who range in age from elementary school through high school, recently had their first outdoor pool practice to get ready for the season.

“This year’s team has started with a few indoor and evening practices to get kids moving and prepared for the season,” Kocon said.

Home meets are scheduled for June 19 against the Palmerton Porpoises, June 26 against the Lower Macungie Lazers, and July 10 against the Soleco Stingrays with 6 p.m. start times.

Other teams in the league are the Quakertown Dolphins, the Northampton Kids, and the Macungie Bears.

Bethlehem will also host the Silver Champs meet on July 19 for swimmers who don’t qualify for the Championships meet.

Swimmers who do qualify for Championships are scheduled to compete on July 22 at Northampton.