Help Us Support those that support us

Our Sponsors

We are proud to be supported by local businesses that believe in the power of youth athletics. Their generosity helps our swimmers chase their goals and strengthens the community we share. RCST is always excited to build new partnerships with businesses that want to invest in both the growth of young athletes and the future of Rutherford County.

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, RCST can continue providing opportunities for young athletes to grow and thrive in and out of the pool.

Explore Our Sponsors Below And Support those that support us

Interested in supporting RCST and making an impact on youth athletics in Rutherford County? Join our sponsorship family and help us build confident, healthy, and resilient young athletes.

The Rutherford County Swim Team is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Blackbeard Level Sponsors

Carolina Chiropractic Plus

Discover optimal health w/ our chiropractor Forest City! Weight loss & spa services, including massage and facials, offered. Insurance accepted!

GoldMay Group

We are Independent Agents, free to choose the best carrier for your insurance needs. We do not work for an insurance company; we work for you. We work on your side when you experience a loss and follow through to ensure you receive fair, prompt payment and service. GoldMay Group Insurance & Investments represents a carefully selected group of financially strong and reputable insurance companies; therefore, we are able to offer you the best coverage at the most competitive prices.

Beaver Development Group is a residential builder dedicated to delivering the highest quality for our customers. We specialize in spec build and custom homes in western North Carolina.

Queen Anne’s Revenge Level Sponsors

Black Pearl Level Sponsors

Grants and Community Partnerships

The Coach "K" Legacy

The Coach "K" Legacy

Mike "Coach K" Kernoodle

For more than 40 years, Coach Mike “Coach K” Kernodle shaped the heart and soul of RCST. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication left a mark on every swimmer who trained under his guidance.

Coach K was known for his tireless commitment—arriving early, staying late, and making sure every practice and meet ran smoothly. With his legendary index cards full of workouts in hand, he adjusted lane lines himself, demonstrated push-ups on deck well into his 80s, and gave personal attention to every swimmer.

What made Coach K remarkable was the deep respect and love he inspired. He believed in the greatness of each athlete, pushing them to overcome excuses and rise to challenges with confidence and grit. He didn’t just train swimmers; he built character, instilled confidence, and fostered resilience that extended far beyond the pool.

Today, RCST carries forward his legacy. Every stroke, every practice, and every meet is a reflection of the lessons Coach K left us: give your best effort, support one another, and find joy in the pursuit of excellence. His spirit continues to guide our team, ensuring that his impact lives on in the swimmers and families of Rutherford County for generations to come.