We are delighted to welcome you to SWAT Swim Club, the only USA Swimming–sanctioned competitive swim program in Sweetwater County. SWAT is a community-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to helping athletes of all ages and abilities develop their skills in the water, grow in confidence, and build lasting friendships. Guided by certified coaches and supported by a committed board of directors, our club emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and the lifelong benefits of swimming.

This handbook has been created as a resource for both athletes and families. Inside, you will find important information about our mission and values, membership expectations, practice schedules, competition guidelines, volunteer requirements, fundraising opportunities, and club policies. It also includes references to USA Swimming’s rules and standards, as well as our club bylaws, so that every family has a clear understanding of how SWAT Swim Club operates.

We encourage you to use this handbook as your go-to guide throughout the season. Our goal is to ensure that every athlete has a positive, safe, and rewarding experience while being part of SWAT. Together, building strong athletes in and out of the pool.

To provide a safe and motivating swim program for all members, demonstrating and encouraging integrity in athletic and personal achievement through physical and mental training.

To educate, instruct, and train members to develop and improve their capabilities in the sport of swimming. To promote swimming for the benefit of athletes of all ages and abilities, in accordance with the standards, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of USA Swimming and SWAT Swim Club.

Head Coach – Coach Jen

For decades, the swimming community has been Coach Jen’s haven and a place where water feels like home. Her journey began in the 1980s, immersed in the world of USA Swimming as an athlete, honing skills, discipline, and a love for the sport that would shape her future. Over the course of 40 years, she has dedicated herself to sharing this passion through swimming, teaching lessons and coaching athletes; with the hope of inspiring others to find their own connection to the water.

Assistant Head Coach – Coach Al

Coach Al’s love of swimming started with being a part of Green River High School Boys Swim Team way back in the 1990s. During his time on the team, he learned a lot about the importance of technique, hard work, and teamwork, all important parts of swimming. He started coaching with the club in 2018 as a volunteer, which provided a way for him to be more involved with his nieces who were athletes in the club. During this time, he also started to help both of the Green River High School swim teams. He has been part of two high school state championship teams and one club state championship team. 

Our mission is to foster a supportive team environment that helps athletes achieve their goals.

We aim to teach proper swim techniques, share knowledge about swimming for competition or enjoyment, and serve as positive role models. By guiding our athletes' growth, we strive to help them reach their goals, develop leadership skills, build self-worth and have fun.

Our focus is to foster a positive, safe space where athletes pursue their goals, aiming for excellence through commitment, leadership, resilience, teamwork, and enjoyment. Our coaches aim to individualize each athlete’s training to match their goal sheet. This will happen in the form of technique refinement, cardio exercise, flexibility with dryland as well striving to build our team dynamics.

SWAT Swim Club is governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors committed to promoting excellence in competitive swimming and ensuring the club operates in alignment with USA Swimming and SafeSport standards, and all federal, state and local laws. Each board member serves a two-year term, with staggered elections to ensure continuity of leadership. All board members are Regular Members of SWAT Swim Club in good standing with USA Swimming and are required to maintain current certifications as outlined by USA Swimming and the U.S. Center for SafeSport.

Current SWAT Swim Club Board of Directors

President - Jessica Maser                                    

Vice President - Fay Quiroz

Secretary - Sarah Scott

Treasurer - Shaundra Britton

SafeSport Representative - Nanette Arnell

SWAT Swim Club is proudly affiliated with USA Swimming, the national governing body for competitive swimming in the United States. USA Swimming sets the standard for athlete development, safety, and competition at every level – from beginners to Olympians.

As a USA Swimming-sanctioned club, SWAT follows all required training, safety, and conduct guidelines, including those from the U.S. Center for SafeSport. This ensures that our athletes train in a secure, supportive, and professionally regulated environment.

Membership with USA Swimming provides our athletes access to:

·       Official swim meets and time standards

·       National rankings and advancement opportunities

·       Educational resources and clinics

·       A nationwide community of athletes and coaches

Being part of USA Swimming means our athletes compete with integrity, pursue excellence, and grow in a community committed to both athletic and personal achievement.

Wyoming Swimming, Inc. (WYSI) is the governing body for USA Swimming in the state of Wyoming and serves as the Local Swimming Committee (LSC) for our region. As a proud member of WYSI, SWAT Swim Club benefits from the structure, support, and opportunities it provides to athletes, coaches, and clubs across the state. WYSI is dedicated to growing the sport of swimming by promoting safe, inclusive, and competitive environments for athletes of all levels – from beginners to elite athletes. It oversees sanctioned swim meets, ensures compliance with national standards, and offers educational and financial support for athletes and coaches. WYSI also organizes statewide competitions and development programs, giving SWAT athletes the chance to compete, improve, and connect with the broader swimming community in Wyoming.

SWAT Swim Club is fully committed to providing a safe, positive, and respectful environment for all athletes, families, and coaches. As a SafeSport Certified Club, we strictly adhere to the policies and training requirements set by the U.S. Center for SafeSport and USA Swimming.

The U.S. Center for SafeSport is an independent organization dedicated to ending abuse in sports. It oversees all athlete safety policies for Olympic and Paralympic sports and enforces codes of conduct to prevent emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct.

At SWAT Swim Club:

·       All Coaches and Board Members complete SafeSport training and background checks.

·       Our SafeSport Representative serves as a dedicated point of contact for concerns or violations.

·       We actively promote awareness, prevention education and clear reporting procedures.

·       We follow the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policy (MAAPP) to limit one-on-one interactions and ensure transparency.

We believe that every athlete deserves to train and compete in a space that protects their well-being and promotes trust.

All athletes must be current members of USA Swimming and must be officially attached to and registered with SWAT Swim Club to participate in practices, meets, and competitions. In addition, families are required to pay all USA membership fees and club dues and fees in full or remain up to date on payments to maintain eligibility. Only after these steps are finalized will athletes be considered active members of SWAT Swim Club.

Prospective members must first complete a swim evaluation with the Head Coach to determine eligibility and appropriate placement within the club.

Following the evaluation, SWAT Swim Club will provide a USA Swimming registration link to the athlete’s parent/guardian. USA Swimming registration is required for insurance coverage and participation in practices and competitions.

After USA Swimming registration is confirmed, a parent/guardian must complete the SWAT Swim Club registration process by accessing the Register for Team button at www.swatswimclub.com.

When registering, the parent/guardian will be prompted to review and agree to SWAT Swim Club policies including the Action Plan for Addressing Bullying, Codes of Conduct Policies, Grievance Policy, and Locker Room Monitoring Policy.

The parent/guardian must ensure that all dues and fees are paid or current. 

SWAT Swim Club membership requires USA Swimming annual membership fee, club annual membership fee, monthly club dues and if applicable, meet and competition fees. All fees and dues must be paid in full or kept current for athletes to remain eligible to participate in practices, meets, competitions, and other club activities. These fees and dues are essential to cover insurance, coaching, and other operational expenses necessary to maintain a high-quality program.

USA Swimming Annual Membership Fee

      Premium Athlete Membership - $78

      Seasonal Athlete Membership - $58

     Flex Athlete Membership - $28

      Outreach Athlete Membership - $7

SWAT Swim Club Annual Fee

      Annual Club Fee of $25 per athlete is assessed, with a maximum of $75 per family.

      Annual Club Fee will not be assessed for Outreach Athlete Memberships.

SWAT Swim Club Monthly Dues

       2 Nights per Week: Monday, Wednesday: Copper 1 through Silver – $60

       4 Nights per Week: Monday – Thursday: Copper 1 through Silver - $75, Gold, Jr. Nationals, Nationals – $90

Reattachment Fee

A $50 reattachment fee will be charged per athlete if a swimmer unattaches from SWAT and then returns to the club within 365 days. The fee must be paid before the swimmer can be reinstated.

SWAT Swim Club pricing is calculated so each month remains consistent, even when athletes attend fewer days due to holidays, school breaks, and unforeseen circumstances. Annual fees, monthly dues, and meet and competition fees are non-refundable.

Please see Appendix B for a detailed description of USA Swimming Memberships.

All SWAT Swim Club billing is managed through Intuit: QuickBooks. Monthly invoices are issued on the first of each month and sent directly to the primary email address on file. A text message notification is sent to the primary phone number on file to remind families that invoices have been issued and/or need to be paid.

Payments may be made online through the Intuit: QuickBooks system using ACH withdrawal, debit or credit card or by mailing a check to:

SWAT Swim Club

PO Box 1576

Green River, WY 82935

Families are responsible for keeping accounts current, as payment of all fees and dues is required for continued participation in practices, meets, competitions, and other club activities. Accounts with dues not received by the 10th day of each month will receive a courtesy phone call and/or text reminder. Any account that reaches 30 days delinquent may result in the forfeiture of the athlete's participation with the club. Questions regarding billing or payments should be directed to the SWAT Board Treasurer at swatswimboard@gmail.com.

If a family wishes to pause an athlete’s enrollment and avoid being billed for the upcoming month, they must notify the SWAT Board Treasurer at swatswimbaord@gmail.com no later than the 25th of the preceding month. 

SWAT Swim Club practices USA Swimming bulk renewal to streamline the annual registration process for all returning athletes, coaches, and officials. Instead of requiring each family to renew memberships individually, the club submits all eligible members in one batch through USA Swimming’s SWIMS portal for the new membership year, which begins September 1. This ensures that everyone is properly registered, insured, and eligible to participate in practices and competitions without interruption.

To make the process even easier, SWAT Swim Club bills each athlete’s USA Swimming membership fee through Intuit: QuickBooks in October, just like monthly dues and meet registration fees. Invoices will be sent by email and accompanied by a text notification to the primary email address on file. No additional action to complete the USA Swimming membership is needed unless otherwise notified. Bulk renewal helps keep our team organized, compliant, and ready for a smooth start to the season.

Please see Appendix B for a detailed description of USA Swimming Memberships.

At SWAT Swim Club, we believe a safe, respectful, and positive environment depends on the shared commitment of athletes, coaches, and families. To support this, our club has established Codes of Conduct for each group. These policies reflect the standards of SWAT Swim Club, USA Swimming, and SafeSport, and they outline the behaviors and responsibilities expected of all members.

    Athletes are expected to represent SWAT with integrity by showing respect, sportsmanship, and commitment to safety at practices, meets, and all club activities.

    Coaches serve as leaders and role models who place the well-being of athletes first, maintain professional standards, and uphold all USA Swimming and SafeSport requirements.

    Parents and Families are vital partners who support their children through encouragement, respectful communication, and active involvement in the team’s success.

By following these Codes of Conduct, every member helps create a team culture where athletes can thrive in and out of the pool.

Please see Appendix A for the complete Athlete, Coach, and Parent/Family Codes of Conduct.

SWAT Swim Club practices are held at the Sweetwater County School District #2 Aquatic Center at the Green River High School, Monday through Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., beginning September 2, 2025, and continuing for the duration of the school year.

Practice is not held when Sweetwater County School District #2 is not in session, including holidays, teacher workdays, and weather closures. In addition, the club does not swim during the months of March and August. Summer practices take place in June and July, with adjusted hours of 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

The team calendar on both the club website and Commit will always reflect the most up-to-date information regarding practice times and cancellations, and families are encouraged to check these sources regularly.

Please see Appendix B for the current Sweetwater County School District #2 calendar.

All athletes are required to bring the proper equipment to each practice to participate fully and safely. At a minimum, every athlete must have a swimsuit, swim cap, and goggles. Athletes should also bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during practice.

As athletes progress through practice groups, additional training gear – such as fins, kickboards, snorkels, and pull buoys – may be required at the discretion of the coaching staff. Coaches will communicate these needs in advance, so families have time to purchase the appropriate items.

In addition, all athletes are strongly encouraged to purchase the designated team suit by our first home meet, Shiver in the River, in January. All athletes are strongly encouraged to wear the designated team suit at all competitions, excluding Block Party Meets. Team suits, along with all other recommended and required gear, will be available for purchase through the team store on the club website. Coach Jen will assist families in selecting the correct size and style to ensure a proper fit for each athlete.

Athletes are expected to care for their equipment, label personal items to avoid confusion, and bring all required gear to every practice. The club is not responsible for lost or damaged equipment. Having the correct equipment ensures that practice runs smoothly and allows athletes to train and compete at their highest level.

Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for athletes to perform at their best in practice and competition. Athletes are expected to bring a filled water bottle to every practice and meet, and they should drink regularly throughout workouts to replace fluids lost through exercise. Staying hydrated helps prevent fatigue, cramps, and overheating, and supports faster recovery.

Nutrition also plays a key role in an athlete’s success. Athletes should eat balanced meals that include lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to provide lasting energy. Healthy snacks such as fruit, granola bars, yogurt, or trail mix are encouraged before and after practice or between events at meets. Foods that are high in sugar, grease, or caffeine should be avoided, as they can hinder performance and delay recovery. Just as importantly, athletes should only eat foods they know sit well in their stomachs, particularly on meet days, to prevent discomfort or illness during competition.

Families are encouraged to support athletes in developing healthy hydration and nutrition habits at home. By making smart choices with food and drinks, athletes will be better prepared to train, compete, and recover while building lifelong skills for wellness.

To help protect hair when swimming, it is recommended that athletes rinse their hair with clean water before entering the pool, as this reduces chlorine absorption. Applying a small amount of leave-in conditioner or hair oil before practice can also provide a protective barrier. Wearing a swim cap is strongly encouraged, as it helps minimize chlorine contact and reduces tangling, especially for those with long hair.

After every practice, athletes should rinse thoroughly and use a gentle shampoo formulated for athletes, followed by conditioner to restore moisture. Hair should be combed carefully with a wide-tooth comb to prevent breakage, and longer hair can be braided or secured under the cap to help avoid tangles. Taking these simple steps makes it easier to manage hair and helps keep it healthy throughout the season.

Swimsuits take a lot of wear and tear, but with proper care they can last much longer. After each practice or meet, rinse your suit right away in cool water to remove chlorine and sweat. Never leave it rolled up in a towel or swim bag, since that breaks down the fabric quickly.

Suits should always be washed gently by hand with cool water. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and washing machines or dryers, as these stretch and damage the fibers. To dry, lay the suit flat on a towel or rack, or use the suit dryers in the locker rooms. Just be careful not to leave suits in the dryer too long, since overuse can wear them out. Keep suits out of direct sunlight and away from heat.

We recommend having more than one practice suit to rotate between, and saving your official team suit for meets only. Even with the best care, swimsuits will eventually wear out, but a few simple habits can keep them looking and fitting better for much longer.

Tech suits are specialized racing swimsuits made with advanced fabric and compression technology to help reduce drag and improve performance. They are expensive, delicate, and designed for use in high-level competition, not everyday swimming.

For athletes 12 and under, tech suits are not allowed in practice or competition under USA Swimming rules. Athletes 13 and over may only wear tech suits at championship-level meets, such as State, Zones, or higher, and only with coach approval. They should not be worn at practices, dual meets, or regular invitationals.

Because tech suits break down quickly, they should be saved for key races and treated with extra care. Rinse immediately after use in cool water, wash gently by hand, and never use washing machines, dryers, or locker room suit dryers. Lay flat to air dry and avoid heat or direct sunlight. With careful use, a tech suit can last through a season of major meets.

Tech suits are specialized racing swimsuits made with advanced fabric and compression technology to help reduce drag and improve performance. They are expensive, delicate, and designed for use in high-level competition, not everyday swimming.

For athletes 12 and under, tech suits are not allowed in practice or competition under USA Swimming rules. Athletes 13 and over may only wear tech suits at championship-level meets, such as State, Zones, or higher, and only with coach approval. They should not be worn at practices, dual meets, or regular invitationals.

Because tech suits break down quickly, they should be saved for key races and treated with extra care. Rinse immediately after use in cool water, wash gently by hand, and never use washing machines, dryers, or locker room suit dryers. Lay flat to air dry and avoid heat or direct sunlight. With careful use, a tech suit can last through a season of major meets.

A Note for Parents

It’s natural for athletes to want the “fast suit,” but parents should know that success in the water comes far more from consistent training, good technique, and healthy habits than from gear. Tech suits are a financial investment, often $300–$600+ each, and their performance benefit is small if athletes are still developing fundamentals. That’s why USA Swimming restricts their use for younger athletes, and why SWAT encourages families to wait until a athlete is ready for higher-level meets before purchasing one.

If you are considering buying a tech suit, or wondering whether it’s the right time, please consult with Coach Jen before making the purchase. She can help determine if the athlete is at a stage in their development where a tech suit will truly be beneficial, and guide families toward the right options.

When the time is right, tech suits can be an exciting tool to help older athletes peak for big races. Until then, a durable practice suit and the official team suit are the best choices for growth, development, and confidence.

All athletes will be setting goals with a coach to explore their motives for swimming and to create a plan to enhance their swimming skills for personal development. Coaches can then build workouts and focus training to address each athlete’s specific goals. This will happen through technique refinement, cardio exercise, and flexibility with dryland, as well as striving to build our team dynamics. Goal setting will take place during the first two weeks of the new season, which allows time to sit with each athlete individually to obtain his or her goals.

Each athlete will receive a laminated card with his or her goals for the season. We wish athletes to keep this in their swim bag as a reference throughout the season. Every quarter of the season, we will be reviewing these goals to see if changes need to be made or if new goals need to be set. Parental support and encouragement will be beneficial and encourage athletes towards reaching their goals.

Copper 1

Requirements:100 continuous of each stroke, 200 free, show correct breathing for stroke, ability to sprint legal 25 free.

Learn: Increasing number of dolphin kicks, increase on continuous meters and speed, continued technique for all strokes, starts/finishes, continued sprint and relay work, improved block starts.

General Overview: Continue to build on mastery and stroke synchronization. Gearing up in competitive growth towards participating in meets. Technique and refinement will be worked on, and they will be challenged to work on those skills, so they become second nature. Building even more on teamwork and learning about leadership towards their competitive future.

Copper 2

Requirements:100 IM@2:30, 200 freestyle@4:00, legal flip turns, legal block starts, understands and executes relays.

Learn: Threshold sets (10x300 i.e.), increased distance/endurance and synced stroke development, stroke rate, swim speed increase, ability to denote a style they excel at(distance/sprints).

General Overview: Increased stamina, focus geared towards competitive side of swimming. Yardage will increase with harder sets. Challenging swimming with focus on technique and stroke synchronization. Practice with teammates will include racing one another, working together for relays and time sets to become more effective and efficient for the Bronze level.

Bronze

Requirements: Ability to change speed while maintaining stroke, continuous use of flip turns, ability to swim continuously without stopping for min of 300. *[for Copper 2 moving into Bronze-4x100 free @2:30, 100IM @2:50].

Learn: Improved stroke technique, time management skills, improved pace clock ability, develop meet routines and understanding, learn/develop lactate tolerance

General Overview: For the progression of Copper 2 as well as the entrance of middle school and high school new athletes, Bronze further pushes athletes to build on their endurance, speed, and entrance into more competitive events. Further mastery of all skills and improved mastery for those new to the sport. High focus on team building, their personal values as well as within the team. In-house competitive meets will be introduced to help drive their swimming journey.

Silver

Requirements: 5x100IM on@2:10, 5x50 fly @55, 5x100 free@1:10, 4x100 IM@ 2:05

Learn: Competitive drills, focus on refinement, endurance building, further focus on team building and leadership.

General Overview: Perfect place for competitive athletes to continue their path forward as well as those that swim for the enjoyment and their team of friends to challenge themselves more.

Gold

Requirements: Age 12 and above-6x100@1:30, 100 back@1:30, 100 breast@1:40, 5x50 fly@45, 6x100 IM@1:40

Learn: Greater endurance and breathing techniques, refine and perfect their pacing and stroke count for the events they swim. Focus on goals, decreasing split times as well as all around. Further diving into any stroke technique that need to be corrected or perfected.

General Overview: Goal oriented group with a split of highly competitive athletes and those that are willing to push their abilities overall. Highly motivated group with superb leadership skills. Introducing them into becoming mentors and leaders for the younger athletes.

Jr. Nationals / Nationals

Requirements: 12 and older, who have the desire to challenge themselves and the will to push their limitations towards competing in nationals- 100 free @1:10, 50 fly @ 35, 100 breast@1:20, 100 back@1:10. Must partake in mentoring/leadership with younger athletes. Attendance is vital to be the most effective in reaching goals at this level.

Dryland

All levels, Copper-Nationals will be 30 minutes dryland on deck before spending 90 minutes in the water.

Athlete Placement

SWAT Swim Club operates team practice groups based on varying levels of developmental progress, ability, and age. While athlete placement is always at the discretion of our coaching staff, certain requirements and test sets help determine proper athlete grouping. Test sets are a basic fitness component and benchmark, measuring the athlete's ability to sustain probable success in the next practice group. Testing also provides coaches, athletes, and parents with helpful feedback.

We are committed to providing a safe and productive training environment for our athletes. The coach’s discretion plays a major role in deciding which practice group is appropriate for each athlete. Therefore, passing the test set is not the only aspect when deciding if the athlete is ready for the next group. We will also reflect on the athlete’s age, social level, technique, and overall ability. Attendance at practices and participation in swim meets are also considered.

Athletes will continually be assessed throughout the year. If an athlete is unable to maintain the physical or mental requirements of a particular group, the athlete may be asked to move to a lower group or may be asked to leave the program. Coaches will conduct Promotion Testing at scheduled practice times throughout the season. Athletes are required to complete the distance in the set amount of time with the proper stroke and technique required for the next group.

Regardless of group placement, all members of SWAT Swim Club are asked to participate in weekly practices and home-hosted meets appropriate to the athlete’s practice group.        

SWAT Swim Club participates in a variety of swim meets throughout the year, ranging from local developmental meets to larger championship competitions. A seasonal meet schedule is created by the coaching staff and approved by the Board of Directors to ensure that athletes have appropriate opportunities to race at their level of training and experience.

The official team calendar, posted on both the club website and Commit, will always reflect the most current meet schedule. Families should check Commit regularly, as it provides detailed meet information packets, registration deadlines, and updates from the coaching staff. While the schedule is planned in advance, changes may occur based on host team availability, facility scheduling, or weather conditions. Updates and reminders will also be communicated through email and the Band App.

Athletes are encouraged to attend meets appropriate to their practice group, as recommended by the coaching staff. Championship and travel meets may require additional planning, and information about these events will be provided well in advance. 

Please see Appendix B for WYSI’s seasonal meet schedule (October 2, 2025- June 13, 2026), subject to change per WYSI.

Athletes are required to be in good standing as a USA Swimming member and attached to and in good standing with SWAT Swim Club to participate in a swim meet or championship competition. If USA Swimming and/or SWAT Swim Club membership has lapsed, members will be unable to sign up for a meet or competition.

SWAT Swim Club uses Commit Swimming for all swim meet registrations. The athlete’s age the day the meet starts will dictate which age group and events he or she is able to swim. To register, parents must log in to their Commit, select “Meets” from the menu, select the meet they want to register for, select the athlete(s) who will attend and which event(s) the athlete(s) will participate in. Families should then confirm participation and finalize registration. Coaches will make the final decision on specific event entries for each athlete.

The SWAT Swim Club entry deadline may be as much as one month prior to the start of the meet. It is important that families respond to meet sign-ups by the posted deadline so coaches can properly enter athletes and plan lineups. Late registrations will not be accepted. Any meet fees associated with entries will be billed to families through the club’s regular billing process.

If families have questions about meet registration or are uncertain whether their athlete should attend a specific meet, they should contact Coach Jen at swatswimcoach@gmail.com before the registration deadline.

SWAT Swim Club participates in Block Party Meets, a pilot program designed to provide athletes with fun, low-pressure racing opportunities outside of traditional USA Swimming competitions. These meets are held locally and focus on team spirit, creative events, and building confidence, while still allowing athletes to practice racing skills. Typical activities may include fun relays, novelty races, or team challenges alongside standard swim events.

Block Party Meets are open to all SWAT athletes, regardless of age or practice group, and participation is strongly encouraged as a way to gain experience in a relaxed environment. While these meets are less formal than sanctioned competitions, athletes are still expected to follow proper swimming etiquette, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and represent SWAT with pride.

Information about Block Party Meets, including dates, locations, and formats, will be announced through the team calendar, Commit, and the Band App.

Families are responsible for meet fees whenever their athlete registers for a sanctioned swim meet. These fees are set by the host team and typically include a per-athlete surcharge and per-event entry fees. Costs vary depending on the meet and the number of events an athlete enters.

In addition to host team charges, SWAT Swim Club assesses a $25 per family, per meet Coach Travel Fee to help cover expenses for coaches attending away meets.

During the open registration period in Commit, families may update their athlete’s meet commitment as needed. Once the registration deadline has passed, all meet commitments become final. At that point, meet fees will be billed through Intuit QuickBooks and must be paid in full prior to the meet. Fees will still be due even if an athlete does not attend the meet after the deadline.

Because the club is required to pay host teams for entries immediately after registration closes, all meet fees are non-refundable once the deadline has ended.

Meet information packets with fee details are posted with each meet in Commit, and families are encouraged to review these documents or contact Coach Jen with questions before registering.

Unpaid invoices may result in an athlete being held out of future meets until fees are current.

Attending away meets is an exciting part of competitive swimming, giving athletes the chance to race new opponents and experience different facilities. Families should plan ahead to make the trip as smooth and successful as possible.

Athletes are highly encouraged to attend at least two meets per season. These events are scored as a team meet, and the more athletes who go, the better chance we have of scoring points. If awards are earned from swim meets or championships, coaches will hand them out at practice in the following weeks or at the Winter Banquet in February.

Transportation to and from swim meets and lodging are not provided by SWAT Swim Club or the club’s coaches. Please see Forms at www.swatswimclub.com for permission forms for athletes not traveling and/or lodging with a parent or legal guardian.

Athletes are required to arrive at the pool at least 15 minutes prior to warm-ups so they have enough time to check in with their coach and prepare. Warm-up times will be posted in advance through Commit, email, and the Band App. Athletes must be respectful to their coaches, competitors, and meet officials, and they are expected to cheer for and encourage their teammates throughout the meet.

Parents are also asked to set a positive example by modeling good sportsmanship and supporting all athletes. Unless working the meet, parents are not allowed to be on deck. Parents are never allowed to be in the athlete locker rooms and/or changing rooms.

Heat sheets are usually available for purchase at the facility hosting the meet. Parents are encouraged to purchase one, highlight their athlete’s events, and track performance throughout the day.

Each athlete should bring:

·    Team suit – strongly encouraged for all meets except Block Party Meets.

·    Swim cap – team cap required, if unavailable, any competitive swim cap is acceptable.

·    Swim cap – take an extra swim cap.

·    Goggles – take two pair.

·    Water bottle – staying hydrated is essential.

·    Healthy snacks – fruit, granola bars, sandwiches, etc.

·    Clothing for between events – warm-ups, parka, t-shirt, shorts, flip-flops, and/or sweats.

·    Sharpie Marker – to write events, heats, and lanes on the athlete’s arm or leg.

By arriving prepared and following these expectations, athletes can focus on their performance while families enjoy the experience of being part of the SWAT community.

Events are timed using electronic systems with one or more backup timers who use stop watches. Should an athlete miss hitting the timing pad with feet or hands, the backup timer will help to ensure an accurate time for that athlete. Official race results are posted somewhere within the pool area, although the location varies amongst pools. Coaches will receive meet results within two weeks following the meet. Meet Mobile is an excellent app for parents and athletes to access race results.

Meet Mobile is a mobile app used at many swim meets to provide heat sheets, live results, and event updates. Families can download the app on their smartphones and follow along with their athlete’s progress throughout the meet. The app allows you to see when events are scheduled, which heat and lane your athlete is in, and view official times shortly after each race.

Please note that Meet Mobile is operated by a third-party provider and may require a small subscription fee or charge for full access. Not all meets use Meet Mobile, but when available, it can be a valuable tool for staying informed in real time. Families should always remember that Meet Mobile is unofficial; the final official results are determined by meet officials.

Using Meet Mobile, in combination with heat sheets and communication from coaches, helps parents and athletes stay organized and prepared on meet day.

SWAT Swim Club participates in a variety of meets that fall under the structure of USA Swimming. Meets are designed to give athletes of all ages and abilities the opportunity to compete, develop, and progress through the sport of swimming. Below is a summary of the most common levels of competition.

Developmental or Intrasquad Meets

These are small, entry-level meets often held within a single club or among a few local teams. They provide newer athletes the chance to experience racing in a relaxed environment with shorter timelines and simplified rules.

Invitational Meets

Most of the meets SWAT attends fall into this category. Invitational meets are open to multiple clubs, usually within a region, and allow athletes to compete in a wide range of events. Some invitationals may require athletes to have a “BB time standard” or faster, while others are open to all athletes.

Championship Meets

Championship meets occur at the end of each season and usually require athletes to meet specific qualifying time standards. Examples include:

Winter / Summer Championships: Brings together the best athletes in the LSC who have achieved state-cut times.

Regional/Zone Championships: Features top athletes from multiple states or regions who meet qualifying standards.

Sectionals, Futures, Jr. Nationals, Nationals: These higher-level meets bring together elite athletes from across the country who have achieved very fast time standards set by USA Swimming.

Please see Appendix B for USA Swimming’s meet progression pyramid.

USA Swimming publishes motivational time standards for each age group and event every four years. These time levels help athletes set goals, track progress, and determine eligibility for certain meets. They range from beginner to elite.

B Time – A solid starting point above beginner times. Indicates the athlete is developing competitive skills and is faster than basic entry-level times.

BB Time – Next level up, showing an athlete is in about the top 55% nationally for their age group. BB times often qualify athletes for larger invitational meets.

A Time – Indicates the athlete is progressing well, roughly in the top 40% nationally. Many championship meets use “A” times as entry standards.

AA Time – A strong achievement, representing about the top 20% nationally. Athletes with AA times are often competitive at the state and regional levels.

AAA Time – An advanced level, placing athletes among the top 8–10% nationally. This is the standard many athletes aim for to be highly competitive within their state or region.

AAAA Time – The highest standard, indicating an athlete is among the fastest in the country for the age group. These athletes are typically qualifying for national-level meets.

Please see Appendix B for USA Swimming’s Motivational Standards.

SWAT Swim Club uses Commit Swimming as the official platform for registration, official club email delivery, team scheduling, meet entries, training data, and volunteer opportunities. Through Commit, families can view practice calendars, meet schedules, and group assignments, as well as receive official club updates. Commit also allows athletes and parents to track attendance and progress, helping athletes stay engaged with their training. Families are expected to maintain an active Commit account to ensure they remain informed and connected to team activities. Commit Swimming makes it easier for coaches and families to stay informed, involved, and on track for success.

In addition to receiving information through Commit, SWAT Swim Club uses the Band App to share announcements, newsletters, scheduling updates, and reminders. Families are strongly encouraged to join the club’s Band group to stay connected and up to date on practices, meets, volunteer opportunities, and other events. Parents may also list athlete contact information to receive messages, if the athlete is at least fourteen (14) years old. 

Please see Appendix B for the QR code to join the Band App.

SWAT Swim Club maintains an official Facebook page, SWAT Swimming, which is used primarily for marketing and community outreach including advertising, announcing and celebrating activities and events, and thanking our donating organizations and sponsors. We encourage families to like, follow, and share our posts to help spread the word about SWAT. Sharing content is an easy way to support the team by reaching potential new athletes, sponsors, and community supporters. While day-to-day team communications are handled through Commit and the Band App, Facebook serves as a public-facing platform to promote the club.

Communication between coaches and athletes must always be observable. Outside of practice, a parent or guardian must be included on all emails, texts, Band messages, and social media contacts. Please refer to the club’s MAAP for more information.

The SWAT Swim Club Board of Directors meets on the second Monday of each month at 6:30p.m. During the school year, meetings are typically held at the Aquatic Center’s Wet Classroom, while alternate meeting locations during the months of March, June, July and August will be announced in advance. Notice of each meeting will be posted at least ten (10) days prior, and the agenda will be made available to members during the week leading up to the meeting. These meetings communicate the club’s legal, financial, and organizational matters. All members are encouraged to attend and stay informed about club governance and operations.

SWAT Swim Club holds its Annual Parent Meeting each September to review important information about the upcoming swim year. During this meeting, the Board of Directors provides updates on club operations, policies, financial matters, and upcoming events, and the contents of this handbook are reviewed with families. In addition, Board of Directors elections are conducted at this meeting in accordance with the club’s bylaws.

Additional Parent Meetings may be scheduled throughout the year as needed to share important information regarding championship meets, home meets or other significant club matters. Attendance at all parent meetings is strongly encouraged, as they ensure that all families are informed, engaged, and prepared for the season ahead.

To ensure clear and efficient communication, SWAT Swim Club maintains three dedicated email addresses. Families are encouraged to use the appropriate contact for their questions or concerns:

Coaching Staff – For questions regarding practices, training, athlete performance, or meet information, please email swatswimcoach@gmail.com.

Board of Directors – For matters related to billing, policies, meetings, or general club operations, please email swatswimboard@gmail.com.

SafeSport Representative – For any SafeSport – related concerns, including questions, policy clarifications, or reporting of violations, please email swatswimsafesport@gmail.com.

Please know that all matters, particularly those related to financial inquiries and SafeSport concerns, will be handled with the utmost care, respect, and confidentiality. 

The SWAT Swim Club website, swatswimclub.com, serves as an official resource for families and athletes. The website includes the team calendar, practice schedules, and club announcements, as well as important governance documents such as the SWAT Swim Club Bylaws and Handbook. It provides access to SafeSport information, including policies, reporting procedures, and resources for athletes and families. Families should use the website as a reliable source for club information, policies, calendars, and SafeSport materials, and check back regularly for updates.

The SWAT Swim Club Team Store is located on the club website at swatswimclub.com. Families can use the store to purchase the official team suit, which is strongly recommended for all sanctioned competitions (excluding Block Party meets). The store also carries a variety of recommended and required gear, such as caps, goggles, fins, kickboards, and other training equipment, as well as optional team apparel for athletes and families.

Coach Jen will assist families in determining the correct size and style of suit for each athlete to ensure a proper fit. Ordering through the Team Store ensures consistency across the club and provides families with convenient access to approved gear.

As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, SWAT Swim Club relies on membership dues, fees, fundraising, donations and volunteer support to operate. Because the club does not receive steady outside funding, family involvement is essential to maintaining affordable programs, running successful meets, and providing a safe and positive experience for athletes. Volunteering ensures the club can keep dues affordable, host high-quality meets, and provide athletes with the support they need to succeed. Every role, large or small, contributes to the success of the program and helps sustain SWAT Swim Club’s mission to develop athletes in a safe, positive, and competitive environment. Below are the primary ways families can volunteer, with explanations of how each role functions.

Home meets require significant volunteer support. Roles include:

·    Timers – operate stopwatches or timing systems for assigned lanes; training is provided on-site and no prior experience is needed.

·    Head Timer – oversees all timers, provides backup timing if a lane misses a start and ensures timers are properly equipped and supported.

·    Runners – transport results, lane slips, or paperwork between the timing system, officials, announcer and timers. This rose is especially important in keeping the meet running smoothly.

·    Announcer – provides clear race announcements, and shares important meet information with athletes, coaches and spectators.

·    Stroke and Turn Officials – certified USA Swimming officials oversee the conduct of races, ensuring compliance with technical rules; requires background check, and certification process through USA Swimming.

·    Referees – act as the lead officials in meets, responsible for ensuring all events are conducted fairly and according to USA Swimming rules; requires background check, and certification process through USA Swimming.

·    Administrative Officials – manage the technical side of the meet, including timing systems, entries, results, and official paperwork; requires background check, and certification process through USA Swimming.

·    Meet Administrator – oversees meet logistics and coordinates with referees, officials and coaches to ensure smooth operations; requires background check, and certification process through USA Swimming.

·    Concessions & Hospitality – staff the hospitality room and provide food for officials and coaches, and support guest teams.

·    Setup/Cleanup – assist in preparing the pool area, moving equipment, and returning everything to order after the meet.

While the host team manages logistics, visiting teams often provide volunteers. SWAT parents are generally required to serve as timers in at least one lane during a meet. All sign-ups for timers will take place prior to the meet on Commit. Parents may also be requested to provide general team support during an away meet, ensuring our athletes are supervised, encouraged, and safe.

Volunteer Officials – becoming a certified USA Swimming official is a valuable way to help all athletes in the sport of swimming. Officials must complete online training, pass a background check, and shadow experienced officials before being certified. Officials help ensure fair competition and are crucial for the success of both home and away meets.

Volunteer Coaches – parents with appropriate swimming backgrounds may serve as assistant or support coaches. All coaches must be registered members of USA Swimming and complete required background checks, Athlete Protection Training, and certifications (such as CPR/First Aid and Safety Training for Swim Coaches).

Fundraisers (raffles, swim-a-thons, sponsorships, etc.) and community events are vital sources of revenue. Parents may help by organizing, promoting, or volunteering at these activities. Event volunteers may also help with team banquets, clinics, or special team functions.

Parents may serve on the Board of Directors or serve on committees focused on areas like fundraising, communications, or meet preparation and management. Leadership roles require consistent participation and decision-making in support of club operations.

Parents may help distribute information, update bulletin boards, or assist with digital communication.

Parents may help create and manage posts for the club’s Facebook, Instagram and other platforms to promote team events, recognize athlete achievements, share community outreach, and advertise for the club.

Strong teams are built not only in the pool but also through friendships and shared experiences. Parents can volunteer to plan and organize team bonding activities, such as group outings, holiday parties, team dinners before meets, or other social events. These activities help athletes form stronger connections, foster a positive team culture, and create lasting memories beyond competition. 

Since SWAT Swim Club is a family-supported non-profit organization, every household is required to contribute time to team operations. Volunteer service is tracked through Commit, with each job assigned a specific number of credits based on the time and responsibility involved. Families are expected to earn at least 10 credits each year between September 1 and August 31. It is the responsibility of each family to monitor their own credits to ensure they meet this requirement. At the close of the season, any family that falls short will be assessed a fee of $10 for each credit not completed, to be billed through the club’s standard billing system. This requirement ensures that the workload is shared fairly among all families and that the club can continue to operate programs, events, and meets, without placing the burden on only a few.

Please see Appendix B for the Volunteer Google Form QR Code