Your first swim meet “To-Do” List

 

The following is a list of things to do the night before the meet, during the meet, and when it is okay to leave the meet.  

 

BEFORE THE MEET:

  • Communicate with your coach the individual events you would like to swim (up to 3 events for most meets). Be sure to communicate if you be arriving to the meet late or if you will have to leave the swim meet early.
  • Declare your intent to swim in the meet (or UNCOMMIT to the meet) on the team website EVENTS page.
  • Be sure to sign up for volunteer slots, as well!   
  • Relays will be entered by the swim coaches
  • Know which pool/team you are swimming!
  • Eat a well-balanced meal and get a good night of sleep!  Hydrate well!

DAY of the MEET:

  • Eat a light breakfast and be sure to hydrate well.
  • Arrive to the pool 15 minutes before your warm-up time, especially if you are swimming a medley relay. 
  • Bring something to put on the ground to sit upon during the meet.   Bring chairs if you’d like to be more comfortable.  
  • Have your team parka and something for your feet.   
  • In your BACKPACK, be sure to pack two towels, dry clothes for after the meet, two swim caps, an extra pair of goggles, your team tee-shirt, sunscreen, and a water bottle.   Some light snacks are okay, too.
  • Use a Sharpie to write your events on your child’s hand or arm – event number, Heat and Lane (when those are known ahead of time).  It helps to name the event, as well (like IM, free, breast, back or fly)
  • Be sure to have your swimmer check in with your coach(es) before and after each race.   
  • For the 8 & Under races, coaches will be at the blocks with the kids ensuring they are in the right place and have a safe start.  
  • Cheer for your teammates when you are not racing or preparing to race.  
  • After your final race, you may leave the meet, if you are not in the final relay.   Of course, we encourage everyone to stay and cheer for your teammates until the bitter end!   Any meets that have inclement (cold or rainy) weather, you can leave once you are finished racing.  
  • You MUST compete in two swim meets (our Time Trials do NOT count) to be eligible to compete in the OMPA championship meet August 1-3.   
  • Junior Orcas that are ready can compete in the Meadow Mini Meet (July 13) and the Team Twice as Nice Family Affair meet (July 23)