Max Kitzmiller, head coach of the Barracuda Open Water and Select Swimming team in Denton, addressed local officials during a recent government meeting, seeking assistance in finding a new practice facility. After nearly a decade of training at Texas Women's University, the team will lose access to the pool due to scheduling conflicts with the university's artistic swim team.

Kitzmiller highlighted the team's achievements, including producing two national swimmers and numerous record holders at the high school level. He emphasized the importance of keeping the team in Denton, where most of the young athletes reside and attend school. The coach expressed concerns about the limited options available, noting that the Denton Dolphins, a local team affiliated with the Texas Amateur Athletes Federation, operates at a different competitive level than USA Swimming.

In his plea, Kitzmiller also mentioned the potential revival of a master's swimming program that had previously been offered in Denton, aimed at adults looking to maintain their swimming skills. He underscored the community's desire to keep the team local, as many swimmers are deeply invested in their training and the camaraderie of the team.

City officials acknowledged Kitzmiller's request and assured him that they would explore possible solutions, including coordination with the local Independent School District. The meeting concluded with a commitment to provide additional information and options for the Barracuda team to continue their training in Denton.