Town of Pelham Partners with YMCA of Niagara – Welland to Support Pelham Penguins Swim Team for 2026 Season

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 29, 2026

Pelham, ON – The Town of Pelham is partnering with the YMCA of Niagara Welland location to allow the Pelham Penguins competitive swim team to continue for the 2026 season while the Town’s outdoor pool is temporarily closed for renovations.

Through this partnership, Pelham families will continue to have access to training and competitive swimming opportunities. By working together, the Town and the YMCA are helping ensure Pelham youth remain active, connected, and supported during the renovation period.

“This partnership allows youth to continue building their competitive swimming skills,” said Ryan Cook, Manager of Recreation, Culture and Wellness for the Town of Pelham. “We’re excited to be able to offer this option for families and proud of the collaboration that has made this opportunity possible.”

“We’re excited to welcome the Pelham Penguins to our Niagara Centre YMCA for the 2026 season,” said Ben McDermott, General Manager of Health, Fitness and Aquatics for the YMCA of Niagara. “Hosting the team is a great opportunity to support local youth and reflects our shared commitment to providing positive, inclusive aquatic experiences for families across the region.”

The Pelham Penguins program will include three one‑hour practices per week and five Saturday swim meets throughout the summer. The program is open to swimmers of any age who are able to swim one full length of the pool without assistance. The registration fee is $125 and more information and registration details are available at www.pelham.ca/swimteam.

Town of Pelham Council has approved the rehabilitation of the Town of Pelham Outdoor Pool that is funded in part by the $2.3 Million investment received by the Town in 2021, through the ICIP: Community, Culture and Recreation Stream - Rehabilitation and Renovation Intake grant. Due to the scope of the rehabilitation work, the pool will be closed for the 2026 season. 

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Leah Letford, Manager of Communications and Government Relations | 905-980-6653 | lletford@pelham.ca