Summit Family YMCA Titans

The YMCA is proud to announce Larry Balkus as Head Swim Coach, bringing a lifetime of swimming, coaching, and YMCA involvement to the role. A native Rhode Islander, Larry began his competitive swimming journey at the Kent County YMCA, where he competed in YMCA and AAU programs through high school. This year marks his 50th year as a YMCA member, reflecting a lifelong commitment to the YMCA mission, values, and community impact. Larry brings over 20 years of youth and adult multisport coaching experience, working with athletes across all ages and ability levels. As a USA‑certified coach, he is known for blending technical skill development with a strong emphasis on character, accountability, teamwork, and long‑term athlete growth. A dedicated lifelong competitor, Larry returned to competitive swimming in recent years and has qualified for the US Masters Swimming Age Group Nationals for two consecutive years. At the 2025 Nationals, he earned Top‑20 national finishes in three events and has already qualified for five events at the 2026 Nationals. He is also a three‑time Age Group Team USA Triathlon member, reflecting elite‑level performance and consistency. Outside of aquatics, Larry has served for 18 years as President of an IT and Development company, bringing valuable leadership, organizational, and program‑management experience to the swim program. He is also the proud father of two adult daughters, an experience that shapes his athlete‑centered, family‑focused coaching philosophy.

As Head Swim Coach, Larry is committed to building a positive, inclusive, and development‑focused swim program that aligns with YMCA values—encouraging confidence, discipline, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of swimming for every athlete.

With 19 years of coaching experience, I’ve had the opportunity to work with swimmers of all ages and ability levels, from young athletes just getting started to senior swimmers competing at a high level. I’m passionate about helping each swimmer improve, build confidence, and enjoy the sport along the way.

Over the years, I’ve run both a recreational and USA Swimming program with over 250 athletes. That experience helped me develop strong, structured programs, mentor coaches, and build a positive, team-first environment. Whether it’s introducing kids to their first swim meet or helping experienced swimmers chase big goals, I enjoy creating a clear path for progress at every level.

I’m currently coaching the Platinum and Gold groups at Summit YMCA, where I work closely with competitive swimmers to refine technique, build endurance, and prepare for high-level meets. I also coach at the high school level, helping student-athletes balance academics and athletics while contributing to a competitive team environment.

My coaching style focuses on strong fundamentals, consistent training, and smart race strategy, but just as importantly, I believe in developing character. Work ethic, accountability, and teamwork are big priorities for me, and I strive to create an environment where swimmers feel supported, challenged, and motivated every day.

At the end of the day, my goal is simple: help swimmers reach their full potential while building a lifelong love for the sport.

Kurt Malthaner has been involved in competitive swimming since the age of eight, continuing through his senior year of high school. He has served for the past two years as coach of the Trinity High School varsity swim team, where he is passionate about developing athletes both in and out of the pool. In addition to coaching, Kurt has been an active triathlete since 2009, regularly competing in open water swimming races and endurance events. His lifelong love for swimming, combined with his leadership and commitment to athlete development, brings energy, experience, and encouragement to every practice and competition.