About BBD

About Birmingham Blue Dolphins

The Birmingham Blue Dolphins (BBD) is a competitive club swim team and one of the longest-standing, most successful programs in the Detroit Metropolitan area.


Founded with a tradition of excellence, BBD has evolved over the years and is now a proud USA Swimming team, competing under Michigan Swimming, the local governing body of USA Swimming. While our history is rooted in both YMCA Swimming and USS competition, our focus today is on developing swimmers within the USA Swimming framework while continuing our legacy of success.




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BBD’s accomplishments are unmatched in the state of Michigan:

  • 44 straight YMCA Eight & Under State Championships
  • 9 USS 12 & Under State Championships
  • 18 consecutive YMCA 9 & Up State Championships
  • 8 straight YMCA Great Lakes Zone (five-state) Championships and 21 total in the 21st century
  • 18 Individual YMCA National Champions
  • 5 YMCA National Relay Champions
  • 6 swimmers who have qualified for Olympic Trials — 2000, 2008, 2012, and 2023

BBD takes pride in its history of excellence, its community, and its dedication to the sport of swimming.

What Sets BBD Apart

1. Age-Based Training Groups

BBD practices are grouped by age, keeping swimmers with their peers and friends. Training alongside swimmers of similar age fosters relationships, boosts confidence, and keeps practices fun and engaging. Coaches design differentiated workouts tailored to each swimmer’s ability while maintaining age-appropriate training plans — helping swimmers enjoy and succeed in the sport long-term.

2. Consistent & Experienced Coaching

Each training group has a dedicated lead coach responsible for practice planning, relay lineups, and on-deck support. This consistency allows swimmers to build strong, lasting relationships with their coaches and develop trust, which is critical in a sport that values discipline and steady progress.

3. Commitment to Every Swimmer

BBD focuses on the success of all swimmers, from first-year athletes to national-level competitors. Coaches meet with swimmers at the start of each season to set personal goals and outline paths for success. Every swimmer is encouraged to take an active role in their development, ensuring that every swimmer matters.