New Swimmers

 

2009 Summer Swim Season
NEW SWIMMER INFORMATION!
 

Is this swimming lessons? 
o    NO!  Our coaches are hired to help improve the swimming skills your child already possesses.  Unfortunately, we are not an organization which provides lessons.

When are the practices?

Everyday after school and everyday in the morning once school is out.  You are not required to come everyday, although it is highly encouraged and the coaches would like each swimmer to practice at least 3 days each week.  

Does my child need googles, swim cap, special practice suit?

Most of the kids do wear goggles and swim caps.  This is optional though, according to your preference.  It is best to have a good one piece practice suit.  There is no particular style or maufacturer that we use.  

Does my child have to wear the team suit to the meets?

No, this is also optional although most swimmers do purchase and wear these for the meets.  In general, we order new suits every 2 years.    

               Does my child have to be a good swimmer?
o    NO!    However, because we compete, we do require a basic ability to swim. Our team is made up of swimmers with various skill levels and our coaches will work with the kids to teach them new strokes, and refine the ones they already know.       
              

What are the qualifications to be a Shark swimmer?

This 6 week non-competitive program is designed to help those swimmers with a basic ability achieve the strength, stamina, skills and endurance for competitive swimming.  Practices will be held by age group and/or abilities at the Cypresswood east pool, and will be coached by a High School Coach and lifeguard certified.

·          How often do you practice?

o   Practices are held the end of April and the whole months of May and June every weekday. 

               How often are meets?

Your child should plan to attend the 1st practice meet,  5 dual meets, and 1 divisional meet scheduled for 7 consecutive Saturdays during the months of May and June this summer.  See the meet schedule in the registration package and on the website.  We do require every swimmer to attend at least 2 meets and divisionals to receive a trophy.

                Do we have to go to the meets?

o    No, but the meets are where the kids really get to shine.  Plan on attending all seven meets and watch your child impress themselves and you on a weekly basis.  You MUST let the coach or Clerk of Course, Barbara Buzonas, know if your child cannot attend a meet.  We enter swimmers in each meet on the Tuesday before the meet.   We would like for each swimmer to attend at least 2 meets and divisionals in order to qualify for a trophy.

 

                Do I have to live in Cypresswood to swim on the team?
o    No.  If you live in a neighborhood without a current NWAL swim team, you are eligilble to swim with Cypresswood or you will need a waiver for special circumstances.

               

What does it cost?

o    Our registration fee for the 2009 summer is $75 for the first swimmer early registration and goes down in price as you add siblings. 15 & up swimmers are $10.00.  Families with more than one swimmer participating receive a discount on the additional swimmers.  The registration includes a team T-shirt and an end of season trophy.  A team suit should be considered for your child.   Click on the documents tab for more information and forms. Prices go up for regular and late registration. 

 

               Is it fun?

o    YES!  Swim team is a great way to watch your child improve their skills and self esteem!  Additionally, it is a terrific way to meet new neighbors and friends and a great opportunity for your child to "hang out" with their friends.

        

       Do I have to help?

o    YES!  Our team survives and thrives on volunteers.  Over 90 parent positions need to be filled at each meet.  None of the jobs are difficult, and all require minimal time.  We know you are there to see your child swim, and we promise that no matter the job, watching your child swim will be the most important thing you do on Saturday morning! 

If you are craving an activity that both you and your child will enjoy, then the SHARKS are here for you!