Libertyville Stars Swim Club
Illinois' premier Special Olympic Swim Team has been providing competitive swim training for athletes with developmental disabilities since 2000. We practice Sundays from 11:15 to 12:45 during the school year (September through June) at Libertyville High School.
We routinely qualify more athletes for the annual Illinois Special Olympics Summer Games than any other swim program in the state. Our coaching team includes high school peer coaches from the many excellent swim programs in the area and are fundamental to our success. We have 40 swimmers who range from age 11 to 53 and most continue to swim with us year after year. We encourage new athletes to apply in advance of our September season start.
Our History
The Libertyville Stars Swim Club was formed in 2000 as the Cats Special Olympics Swim Team by coaches and founders Becky Peacock and Ann Davidson. The team name was changed to the Libertyville Stars in 2007.
After 20 years leading the team and building the most successful program in Illinois Special Olympics, Becky Peacock and Ann Davidsen retired from the program. Their legacy still lives on in our program to this day. We just completed our Silver Anniversary Season in 2025. We can't wait to see what the next 25 years will bring.
Our Peer Coaches
One big key to the success of our team is our dedicated volunteer peer/mentor coaches. Our staff are all accomplished competitive swimmers from Lake County high school, club and even age group swim teams. Volunteers typically work as lane coaches for a small group of swimmers to provide set instruction and technique guidance. Peer coaches are always invited to our social events and are a part of our swim family.
As a result of being a part of our team, our peer coaches learn to look at all people with disabilities in a whole new light, with great respect for their efforts and achievements. Many have gone on to pursue careers in special education, teaching or coaching. We are always looking for more peer coaches to join us!
Our Philosophy
Sportsmanship
Our athletes strive to display great sportsmanship with their teammates, competitors, and coaches. Win or not, be brave in the attempt!
Teamwork
Stars athletes work together to improve and encourage one another to achieve. Team relays are the best! We are all better together.
Attitude
We display a positive "can do" attitude and welcome new opportunities and challenges. Rough seas make for good sailors. Be positive. You can do it!
Respect
We show mutual respect and care for one another at all times, both in and out of the pool. We embrace those differences that make us unique.
Socialization
We love to have fun as a team. We have frequent social events to strengthen our friendships with one another. Our teammates are the best!
Meet our Stars Coaches
Coach Mike Reed
Coach Mike has been on deck with Stars for over a decade. He is an active competitive swimmer and Assistant Coach with Libertyville Masters and coaches the Mighty Ducks Lake Forest Swim Club. He recently retired from teaching swim lessons at Big Blue Swim School in Buffalo Grove where he was recognized as Employee of the Year across all Chicago locations. Coach Mike loves swimming, competing and helping our team's swimmers to achieve their goals. "Focus on technique, and speed will follow".
Assistant Coaches
Elizabeth Siena
Assistant Coach
Carrie Pineda
Assistant Coach
Stan Williams
Assistant Coach
Board
Monica Harr
Board Member
Kathy Kroening
Board Member
Susan Nippes
Board Member
Kelly Daugherty
Board Member
Where we swim
Libertyville High School pool
708 W. Park Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048
We host meets and practice in this 50-meter pool that was opened in 2019, This modern facility is usually divided into two 8 lane pools where we practice on Sundays.
Libertyville High School pool
Want to coach with the Stars?
Local students 12 and older are welcome on deck on Sunday mornings.
