Forrester Woods Swim Team

Welcome to another Forrester Woods Waverunners swim season! The goal of the Forrester Woods Waverunners is to provide a safe and fun environment for young swimmers to learn competitive swimming while providing a constructive outlet for youngsters during the summer. The swim team is a 100% volunteer based organization and relies on parent support not only in getting their children to practice and meets on time, but also officiating/working at each meet, helping organize and run social events and fundraisers, and encouraging our kids.

SAIL, or the Swim Association Invitational League, originated in 1964 with a swim meet involving 3 neighborhoods under the Greenville Parent-Youth Association (PYA). Willard Metcalf, then the PYA's recreation chairman and a former collegiate swimmer, is credited with initiating SAIL. By 1967, ten neighborhood pools participated in the PYA summer swim meets, leading to the formation of SAIL as an independent entity in September 1967. The founding meeting, chaired by Metcalf, included various individuals such as Bruce Buchanan, Dotty Hartnett, and others. Over the years, the league grew significantly, with four pools involved in 1964, ten in 1967, 21 in 1975, and 26 in 1984. Presently, 37 pools participate, involving around 4,500 swimmers from over 1,700 families. The league's structure evolved over time, initially organized into three divisions (red, white, and blue) in the early 1970s, with a fourth division (green) added in 1976. Further expansions included the gold division in 1982 and the purple division in 1992. The SAIL website is sail.swimtopia.com

The Forrester Woods Swim Team is a member of SAIL. SAIL provides an administrative structure whereby member teams in the Greenville, South Carolina area may participate in a competitive swim situation of equal opportunity for all. The Forrester Woods Swim Team operates in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of all SAIL standards of participation, administration, and ethics.

Forrester Woods Swim Team is a non-profit, parent run organization. Every parent must volunteer in order for the team and meets to operate. Our team is a member of Swim Association Invitational League (SAIL). FWST has been serving the neighborhood of Forrester Woods and surrounding communities as a SAIL member since 1977. The FWST is pleased to provide a summer swim program for its athletes.

Mission Statement

To provide the best possible instruction, training, and competitive opportunity for swimmers of all abilities and interest levels. To provide opportunities for social and emotional development. To have fun and enjoy swimming as both an individual and team sport. To instill an appreciation for values of high self-esteem, hard work, and a sense of good sportsmanship. To motivate swimmers to achieve the most for themselves; to be the best they can be.

Philosophy

Teamwork: FWST is a team that is built upon the commitment, support, and participation of the Board, coaches, swimmers, parents/guardians, and the community at large. FWST believes that its success in achieving the team’s goals is dependent upon the cooperation of all members.

Coaching: FWST is committed to providing comprehensive, expert swim/stroke training by an experienced coaching staff. In addition to swim training, FWST promotes the practice of healthy lifestyle habits, such as good nutrition and sleep. Our head coach holds a current First Aid and CPR Training certification.

The Swimmer: FWST believes that each swimmer is an individual with different backgrounds, needs, and goals. The team focuses on the development of positive self-esteem and individual goal setting. The team encourages swimmers to represent FWST by participating competitively during the season and to consider competing on a year round swim team with a local organization. FWST believes that all members should model team spirit and sportsmanship.

Goals of FWST

• Build self-esteem
• Improve swimming skills
• Generate healthy competition, respect and sportsmanship
• Encourage self-discipline and commitment
• Respect individual differences
• Promote camaraderie and team spirit

The team uses as many forms of communication as possible (website, email, social media, SwimTopia alerts etc.).

For any questions about the Forrester Woods Swim Team, please send an email to [email protected] or contact any board member.

TEAM WEBSITE

https://forresterwoodswaverunners.swimtopia.com/

FWST's website houses most of the information you will need for the season including: registration, practice schedules, meet schedules, volunteer signup, meet signup, social calendar, team handbook, coach contact information, volunteer training, etc.

E-MAIL

E-mails will be sent via SwimTopia to inform parents/guardians and swimmers of upcoming events, such as swim meets, team social events, volunteer events, etc. Be sure to keep your e-mail address current on the website. If you need help updating it, please see the Contact Us link on the website.

**Please feel free to email the board at any time. We encourage open communication. All board members are listed on the website under the About Us section and a contact us email address is provided.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook – Forrester Woods Swim Team – Closed group to members only

Instagram - @forresterwoods_swimteam

** We encourage parents and swimmer to join these groups as we will post reminders on social media in addition to email.

SWIMTOPIA (PHONE APP)

All parents (and older children) should download the SwimTopia application. There is a free and paid version, but the free version is REQUIRED as this is how we will send very time sensitive and important notifications such as weather delays and practice cancellations. It is also required that you enable NOTIFICATIONS so that you receive this information from us. The app is also where much of the information for the season and the meets are available to you such as: Heat Sheets, Swimmer’s Times, Calendar of Events, Volunteer Commitments, etc. Some of this information is only visible to paid subscribers. We encourage you to pay for the membership for the swim season.

All families are responsible for enrolling their swimmers through the team website (Login with your user ID & Password Forrester Woods Swim Team ). If there are issues with registration, please contact a board member for help. Please ensure that all parent contact information is correct (email & cell phone). A copy of each swimmer’s birth certificate is required to be on file with the team. If you are new you need to provide a COPY of your child’s birth certificate upon registration.

Registration is open to residents and members of Forrester Woods and Forrester Woods Estates . If you are a non-resident you must pay the pool membership fee to be a member of the summer swim team. Memberships are limited and available on a first come, first serve basis and the forms can be found at Forrester Woods or Forrester Woods Estates.

Registration opens on March 1st for all FW and FWE residents as well as returning swimmers. If the board deems it necessary, registration may open at a later date to any new, non-resident swimmers.

Registration covers all practices, meets, SAIL dues and insurance, team t-shirt, participation trophy and ribbons.

The registration fees include a concession donation fee per swimmer.

SAIL determines the assignment of the Swimmer(s) to a group based on the child’s age on May 31. The Swimmers practice times will be based on the age group they fall into..

AGE GROUPS

The Forrester Woods Swim Team is comprised of swimmers in the following age groups:

Guppies (generally 4 to 7 years), 8 & Under (generally 6-8 years), 9/10, 11/12, 13/14, and 15-18.

PRACTICE GROUPS

FWST practice groups have been developed to maximize the growth and development of swim techniques for its swimmers of all levels. Swimmers of similar age and abilities will be grouped together to reach the goals set for each level. Practices are divided into the following groups:

• 8 & Under
• 9-10
• 11 & Over
• Guppies

SAIL determines the assignment of the Swimmer(s) to a group based on the child’s age on May 31. The Swimmers practice times will be based on the squad descriptions above.

The coaches determine a swimmer’s placement based on the swimmer’s ability. During the first week of practice, the head coach will determine if a child should start on the Guppy Team or the Waverunner Team. Coaches will also determine what lane the child swims in at practice. Lane assignment and age group placements are done to meet the needs of the swimmer and of the team.

At the sole discretion of the head coach, swimmers may be moved into different practice groups based on technical ability. This move would be optional and communicated with the parents. The board and coaches carefully consider all practice group sizes and structure. Under no circumstances should parents request swimmers to practice with a different group based on convenience.

ASSESSMENTS FOR NEW SWIMMERS

Coaches will assess new swimmers to ensure they can meet the requirements for the big swim team. Swimmers must be able to put their face in the water and swim the length of the pool (25 meters) without touching the bottom, sides, or lane ropes. For swimmers under 6 to qualify for big team, they must be able to swim 2 strokes legally.

If a swimmer does not meet the requirements for big swim team, it is in the swimmer's best interest to participate on Guppy Team for the season. If a refund is preferred in lieu of joining the Guppy Team, the refund will be in full, less the SAIL required insurance fee. Swimmers ages 10 and older will be evaluated by the coaching staff the first 3 days of practice, if a swimmer is unable to safely and adequately swim at the level of his or her age group, the swimmer will be removed from the team for the season and a refund will be given, less the required for SAIL insurance fee.

GUPPIES

The Guppy Team develops swimmers to advance to the Waverunner Team. Guppies will be taught basic strokes, but this is not intended to replace swimming lessons. A guppy should be fully potty trained and able to jump into the water voluntarily, put their face in the water, and make forward progress for at least 20 feet (half of the short width of the pool). No floaties or swimmies allowed. We will allow a couple of days for guppies to get acclimated to being back in the pool, but this guppy 'test' must be completed within the first 3 days or practice. A parent or guardian must stay with their guppy for the entire practice and meet.

If your swimmer isn't quite ready for Guppies but you're interested in lessons, please reach out to our Guppy Coordinator for a list of available instructors.

Guppy team expectations:

• All swimmers should wear goggles.
• They need to be comfortable in all areas of the pool they will be swimming in.
• They need to be comfortable with their HEAD in the water (this does not mean just a splash on the face).
• There should be some forward progress ability with doggie paddle type stroke (at least 20 feet or so).
• There should be some progress on their back with kicking and arm movement.
• They need to have a productive flutter kick on both front and back. The child should not be vertical in the water at any time during practice; they should be horizontal or inclined.
• If the child cries every practice then this is not for them.

Any requirements are for the safety/happiness of the swimmer.

Please remember Guppy Team is not a lesson or water adjustment class.

Guppies have 4 meets on Saturday morning at 9 am. All guppies should arrive to the pool deck ready to swim 15 minutes prior to the start of the meet.

NEEDED EQUIPMENT

• Practice Suit(s) (one piece for girls, jammers or briefs for boys)
  • ALL swimsuits should adhere to the standards of modesty and decency set forth by USA Swimming, NCAA Swimming and Diving, and FINA.
  • The suit while used must follow the body shape and be worn in “good moral taste”.
• Goggles- These can be purchased from any sport/swim retailer or through our Team Store.
• FWST Team suit (or another color coordinating suit – solid black or orange/black)- The team suit can be purchased online through our Team Store.
• FWST Team Cap (Or plain cap. A logo other than the team’s will result in disqualification. If the cap has a brand logo, it will need to be turned inside out)

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

• FWST Team/Fan Apparel
• Folding chair for swim meets
• Sharpies for writing events on swimmers
• Towels
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen

Be sure to put your child's name on all belongings, including goggles and t-shirts.

Swimmers are expected at all times to follow the directions and instructions of the coaching staff. A respectful attitude toward coaches and teammates is required.

The goals of the FWST are to promote respect and sportsmanship, self-discipline and commitment. Therefore, abusive language, lying, stealing, and/or vandalism will not be tolerated. FWST expects swimmers to conduct themselves in an orderly, courteous, dignified, and respectful manner. This requirement refers to their actions toward other swimmers, coaches, parents, officials, and all others.

During meets it is expected that swimmers behave appropriately in the tent area as well as anywhere on deck or the general pool area. It is the responsibility of the parents, not the tent parent volunteers to manage inappropriate behavior. If swimmers are behaving inappropriately, it will be brought to the parents’ attention.

Since the swim team members represent the Forrester Woods community when they are at swim meets or at social events, swimmers are required to exhibit proper behavior. They should demonstrate good sportsmanship toward other swim teams. Because the swim team is composed of many age groups, older swimmers should remember that the younger swimmers look up to them, and should accordingly, act responsibly (e.g., refrain from abusive language, be encouraging, friendly and helpful).

Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at FWST and will not be tolerated. Bullying is counterproductive to team spirit and can be devastating to a victim. FWST is committed to providing a safe, caring and friendly environment for all our members. If bullying does occur, all athletes and parents should know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. Anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell a coach, board member or athlete/mentor.

The following is a general listing of offenses and the required or recommended disciplinary actions which should be taken as a result of such offenses being committed.

Level 1 Offense:

Not listening or not following directions

• General horseplay
• Distracting others
• Disrespecting others
• Poor sportsmanship
• Late to practice or not being prepared to start practice on-time

Action to be taken: Parent notified. After 3 level 1 offenses, swimmer will be suspended from all practices, meets, and swim team events for 3 swim days. Should the behavior continue, the matter will be discussed with the board for possible further suspension or possible termination from the team. 

Level 2 Offense:

• Inappropriate language
• Not keeping hands to themselves
• Lying
• Blatant disobedience
• Interference with the progress of another swimmer during practice or at any other time

Action to be taken: Parent notified. Immediate removal from the current practice or event. After 2 total offenses, swimmer will be suspended from all practices, meets, and swim team events for 3 swim days. Should the behavior continue, the matter will be discussed with the board for possible further suspension or possible termination from the team.

Level 3 Offense:

• Destructive behavior/vandalism
• Inappropriate or unruly behavior, including fighting or striking another person
• Use or possession of any drugs, alcohol, tobacco or any other illegal substance
• Stealing
• Sexual harassment

Action to be taken: Parent notified. Immediate removal from the current practice or event. Swimmer may not participate in swim team events until the board has met with parent and coach. Possible swimmer expulsion.

This code shall be in force for all FWST swimmers during practice, during swim meets, and at events sponsored by, or in which, FWST Swim Team is represented. Consequences for the above actions (or others not specifically listed) will be handled according to the outlined levels above or as deemed appropriate by the coaches and board.

The FWST board of directors reserves the right to suspend or terminate the team membership of any individual whose behavior places FWST in an unfavorable light or jeopardizes our participation in any pool use or sporting event. All swimmers are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and act as appropriate ambassadors for the team. They should act as role models for other swimmers at all times.

Parents will be notified at minimum via email of any behavioral incidents that take place during practices, meets, social events, etc. 

SAIL CODE OF CONDUCT

As a member of SAIL, Forrester Woods Swim Team (swimmers, parents, volunteer, coaches and Executive Board members) must adhere to the following SAIL Code of Ethics:

• As a participant, I will refrain from all personal action that might provoke other participants, spectators, or officials to unsportsmanlike conduct.
• As an individual, I will refrain from offensive or abusive language and will confine myself to proper remarks at the proper time to officials in charge.
• As a participant, I will respect the dignity of the meet in which I am engaged, the officials, the opponents, and the communities they represent.
• As an individual participant, parent, coach, team, league representative or league officer, I will do nothing that would give myself or my team an unfair advantage over another participant or team.
• As a coach or parent, I will not engage in nor permit actions which will interfere with the operation of the league or its meets; nor will I intrude upon the area of the league and meet officials.
• As a meet official or league officer, I will return courteous answers to legitimate questions and recognize remarks made by authorized persons. I will not allow any acts by others which do not uphold the standards set forth in the by-laws of the league.
• As a participant of the meet, I will maintain an attitude of true sportsmanship.
• As a member of SAIL, I pledge myself to create a mature, healthy, and fair atmosphere for all swimmers at all times.

FWST PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT

As a Parent of Forrester Woods Swim Team swimmer, I will abide by the following code of conduct:

1. Demonstrate good sportsmanship by conducting myself in a manner that earns the respect of my child, other swimmers, parents, officials, and the coaches at meets and practices.
2. Not coach or instruct the team or any swimmer at a practice or meets, except to reinforce the lessons of the coach.
3. Let the coaches know and note on the website in a timely manner if my family will miss any meets during the season.
4. Maintain an open line of communication with the coaching staff and Swim Team Board, sharing ideas, concerns, etc. as they arise.
5. Direct all questions or concerns regarding decisions made by meet officials during meets to a member of our coaching staff.
6. Comply with the Clerk of Course rule during meets that the swimmer line-up benches and bullpen are for swimmers only, unless I am assigned to volunteer in that area.
7. Understand that criticizing, name calling, using abusive language or gestures directed toward the coaches, officials, and/or any participating swimmer will not be permitted or tolerated.
8. Per SAIL rule, I understand that it is not allowed to take pictures of swimmers behind the blocks.

FWST SWIMMER CODE OF CONDUCT

All FWST swimmers will abide by the following code of conduct:

1. I will conduct myself with dignity and respect for others and for the property of others.
2. I will be on time for practice and meets.
3. I will comply with all team rules.
4. As a matter of team pride & courtesy to meet hosts, pool facility operators, lifeguards, and swimmers, I will leave the team area in a neat & clean condition at the conclusion of each practice session. I understand this also applies to pool rest rooms and pool decks, etc.
5. I will practice and teach good sportsmanship.
6. I will promote positive team spirit and morale.
7. I will offer congratulations and encouragement to other swimmers including those on the other team.
8. I will support my teammates at practice and at competition. Working together as a unit will benefit each team member and is an important part of FWST spirit.
9. I will follow verbal directions of the coaching staff. At no time will disrespectful attitudes or abusive language by any swimmer be tolerated.
10. I will respect the rights and space requirements of other groups using the swimming facility
11. I will follow the Code of Conduct at home and away meets where FWST is represented.

PRACTICE POLICIES

Attendance and participation at practice is essential.

• Swimmers of similar age and ability will be grouped together to reach the goals set for each level. Siblings may have different practice session times. Swimmers must practice with their designated age groups. On a limited basis, coaches may ask some swimmers to move to a higher-level practice based on ability only. This is optional and only if agreed upon by coaches and parents.
• Swimmer should arrive on time in their swimsuit, goggles and cap (if desired).
• Practices generally run Monday - Friday.
• MORNING PRACTICES ARE CLOSED TO PARENTS
• Afternoon practices are open during normal pool hours once the pool is open to members. Pre-pool season, afternoon practices are closed to parents.
  • Young swimmers want their parents’ approval. If a swimmer is aware of a parent watching practice, it is natural for some of their attention to be directed toward the parent. However, for the swimmers to learn as much as possible, it is imperative that the coaches maintain the swimmers’ attention during practice. We ask that parents never communicate with their children during practice or compete with the coach for his/her attention.
• If you need to speak with a coach or swimmer, please do so outside of practice hours so that coaches and swimmers can focus.
• No practice on Memorial Day.

WEATHER POLICY

Practice will be held in light to moderate rain, however, practice will be called if lightning or thunder starts. You will receive a notification via SwimTopia of any cancellations.

To receive text alerts announcing practice/meet changes, postponement, or cancellation due to bad weather please download the free SwimTopia Mobile App and allow notifications. Share this info with your swimmers who have cell phones so they can stay informed as well.

If you do not have the app or do not allow notifications, you will receive alerts as an email. Please check for those during inclement weather.

SWIM MEET POLICIES

One of the main purposes of swim team is to ultimately compete in swim meets. For many new swimmers, taking the first step and going to their first competitive meet is a big undertaking. Our coaches understand this and are happy to share information about each meet and help make your child comfortable.

We encourage all swimmers to attend swim meets and compete in events. Swim meets provide an opportunity for the swimmers to measure the progress of their training and practice. Swim meets are also a social time, which enables the swimmers to build friendships with fellow teammates.

• Swimmers must remain in the tent area during the meet. If they leave the tent area they must notify the head tent parent. Swimmers should remain aware of the current event lining up so that restroom and concession breaks can be planned accordingly.
• Meet Attendance: If you are unable to attend the swim meet, you must still register as “not attending”. We need to know this information when the meet is being built.
• All swimmers who commit to a meet should strive to participate in the events they signed up for. If they are unable to make a meet or an event, they need to inform the coach who can scratch them or replace them in any relays if necessary.
• Swimmers must compete in at least 2 regular meets in order to compete in the Divisional meet.
• FWST is bound by SAIL's meet template. All of the divisions follow the same rules that are set by SAIL when they enter the meets into SwimTopia. All teams seed meets the same way and based on the same rules.
• Maximum Entries: Swimmers are currently limited to 3 individual events and 2 relays max. Parents choose 3 individual events to enter each of their swimmers in. SwimTopia will automatically seed the relays. The coaches have the ultimate say on swimmer events and relays.
• Seeding: Seed times from the previous year may be used in the present year for all meets except the Divisional meets.

For more information regarding SAIL's Technical Rules, please view the SAIL Technical Rules

For more information on how SwimTopia organizes meets and times, SwimTopia has a comprehensive help section HERE

RELAY POLICIES

• The 'A' relay team is automatically generated based on the fastest combination of swimmer times and DQ history.
• The ‘B’, ‘C’, etc. relays are also automatically generated based on the next fastest swimmers, but coaches have discretion to override and will not always represent the next fastest times.
• The relay team that swims an event at Divisionals will be the team that swims it at C&C (even if a swimmer’s divisional time puts them faster than one of the Divisional relay swimmers), unless someone from that team has 'opted' no for C&C, becomes ill, or injured.

If you have any questions about how relays are generated, many answers can be found directly on the SwimTopia help section. Automatic Relay Generation

Please let the coaches know as soon as possible if your swimmer has been assigned to a relay and is unable to swim.

The Forrester Woods Swim Team (FWST) Executive Board and committees provide organizational leadership. These volunteer groups of swim team parents are responsible for all phases of team activity, from hiring coaches to running meets. Because the success of the swim team depends on volunteer help from all parents, your help is always needed and appreciated! To help with any committee, contact a committee chairperson. Or if you have any questions about opportunities please contact one of the FWST Co-Presidents.

BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS

All activities of the Swim Team are governed by an Executive Board with additional assistance from Board Members and Committee Chairs. These positions are filled on a volunteer basis – your interest in filling a position is always valued.

• President(s) – The president is the chief operating officer of the Swim Team. He/she presides at all meetings, signs and executes any and all documents and instruments which may be required on behalf of the Swim Team, coordinates all activities with the other officers and committees, and performs any and all acts that might be required of a president of a similar organization. The president is responsible for all written communications dealing with the Swim Team and or appoints a designated officer to do so, including reports to the Home Owners Association, and email newsletters for the Swim Team members. All swim coaches/trainers report directly to the president.
• Vice-President -The vice-president performs the duties of the president in the absence of the president. If the president deems it necessary for carrying out all duties, more than one vice-president may be appointed. The president will define the duties of each vice-president.
• Secretary – The secretary records the minutes of all meetings of the Executive Board and maintains and acts as the custodian of all records of the Swim Team.
• Treasurer – The treasurer is the custodian of all funds of the Swim Team, proposes budgets, prepares financial statements, and presents reports as called for by the president and/or Executive Board. The treasurer is authorized to reimburse other board members for monies spent on behalf of the Swim Team. The board must have approved the expenditures, and the treasurer must receive proper documentation.
• SAIL Representative(s) – The SAIL Representative(s) carries out all duties required by the SAIL organization and represents the Swim Team at all SAIL meetings and functions. In addition, the SAIL Representative(s) acts as a link between the Swim Team and SAIL.
• Team Computer Operator (TCO) - The TCO(s) prepare the meet entries, are responsible for entering in swimmers’ times from the timer sheets, identifying any issues, enter in DQ information, score the meet, print out ribbon labels and other Meet Reports as necessary.
• Clerk of Course (CoC) - Responsible for the flow of the meet. The Clerk of Course works with the TCO to combine any heats in advance of the meet. During the meet, the CoC ensures that swimmers are where they need to be, in the correct heats and lanes. Overall, along with the Starter and Referee, ensures the meet runs smoothly.
• Volunteer Coordinator (s) – The volunteer coordinators secures and coordinates volunteers needed for each swim meet. Ensure certification training is communicated to parents and proper training for each position is completed prior to volunteer sign up. Coordinates volunteer position to set up pool deck, parking, and bull pen for swim meets. In addition, ensures all items needed for away meets arrive and are set up to include tents, microphone/bullhorn and event sign.
• Concessions Chair – At each home meet, concessions are sold as a major fundraiser for the Swim Team. The concessions committee coordinates all activities related to the selling of concessions. The concessions committee requires parental assistance at all home meets.
• Spirit/Social – This committee plans and orchestrates spirit, social, and family-oriented activities throughout the swim season. The purpose of the spirit committee is to build and strengthen team unity in an effort to be supportive and encouraging for all children participating on the FWST. Extra help or ideas for activities are always appreciated for this committee.

SWIM TEAM BOARD ROLE

• Meets monthly (January – July) to plan and discuss all swim team activities.
• Sets dues based on budget for upcoming year.
• Reviews Financials & evaluates any needed expenditures.
• Hires coaches and sets compensation.
• Handles any discipline problems elevated above the coaches.
• Manages grievances that are elevated above the coaches.
• Coordinates and plans with other swim leaders within the division.
• Coordinates and plans within the division leaders and Greenville SAIL Board

HEAD COACH’S ROLE

• Meets with the Board to discuss the coaching responsibility according to the rules and regulations of the organization.
• Conducts all swim practices, time trials, and attends all swim meets.
• Attends parents’ meetings and board/league meetings, when necessary.
• Corrects errant swimmers at swim team practices, meets, and time trials.
• Contacts parents in the event a behavior problem should occur and reports the issue to the Board.
• To the best of their ability, the coach will be responsible for enhancing swim team members’ ability to perform the various strokes used in swim meets, in such a manner as to encourage and enhance self-improvement.
• Acts as a leader in promoting team spirit and demonstrates a positive attitude.
• Performs their duties in order that the purposes of the FWST organization be promoted.
• Holds a current First Aid and CPR Certification. May be required to hold a Safety for Swim Coaches Certificate or Lifeguard Certificate (See safety section).
• Ensures that swimmer’s events (individual and relays) are marked correctly in SwimTopia prior to the meet seeding.

ASSISTANT COACH’S ROLE

• Assists the head coach in the responsibilities noted for the head coach.
• Acts as a leader in promoting team spirit and demonstrates a positive attitude.
• May be required to perform additional duties, as needed, at the direction of the head coach.
• Holds a current First Aid and CPR Certification. May be required to hold a Safety for Swim Coaches Certificate or Lifeguard Certificate (See safety section).

JUNIOR COACH’S ROLE

• Assists the head coach and assistant coach.
• Acts as a leader in promoting team spirit and demonstrates a positive attitude.
• May be required to perform additional duties, as needed, at the direction of the head coach.
• Works with Head and Assistant coach to grow and train in their coaching abilities.
• Holds a current First Aid and CPR Certification

In order to hold a swim meet, volunteers are required to work in a variety of areas. THE REQUIREMENT IS TO HAVE EVERY FAMILY VOLUNTEER EVERY MEET YOUR CHILD SWIMS. Every family must commit to work one meet half per parent (a single parent family must commit to one half per meet, a two-parent family must commit to two halves – one parent may work both halves or each parent may work one half each).

Please review the job descriptions that follow and think about the ways that you can share your talents and skills with the team. Everyone will be asked to contribute, and there will always be someone to work with who can show you all that you need to know. IF YOU DO NOT VOLUNTEER, YOU ARE PUTTING YOUR CHILD IN JEOPARDY OF NOT GETTING TO SWIM IN THE MEET AND/OR FUTURE MEETS. If you would like to become a SAIL certified official, there are clinics held for jobs that require certification (see a board member about upcoming SAIL certification classes.) Please let a member of the Board know if you have an interest in filling any position included in this handbook, including year long board positions.

Parents are required to sign up for volunteer jobs via SwimTopia by noon the Saturday prior to the swim meet. Sign-ups will be located on SwimTopia under Meets and Events, Signup Calendar. Parents are also required to help set up, clean-up and teardown. For home meets please help put all team gear away, reset deck lounge chairs and tables and ensure all belongings and trash are picked up. For away meets, please ensure we leave the tent area as we found it. Pick up all trash and belongings.

If you are unable to meet your volunteer commitment, it is YOUR responsibility to find a replacement and communicate the change to the volunteer coordinator or a board member.

VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

The volunteer positions include the following:

Referee – SAIL Certification is required(classroom training). This job requires a thorough knowledge and understanding of USA and SAIL rules and commitment to the swimmers of fair and competitive conditions. The principal function of this job is to see that a meet is properly conducted according to the rules. This person has the authority to be judge, jury, and arbitrator of all problems and protests that may arise during a swim meet. To serve as Referee, a person must be certified in all six areas: Referee, Starter, Stroke & Turn, Timer, Records, and Clerk of Course. To serve as Referee, a person must attend classroom training for: Referee, Starter, and Stroke & Turn.

Starter– SAIL Certification is required(classroom training). This job gets the swimmers up on the starting blocks, announces the stroke, and begins the electronic start. The home team provides the Starter; the visiting team provides Assistant Starter. To serve as a Starter, a person must attend classroom training for Starter and Stroke & Turn.

Stroke & Turn – SAIL Certification is required (classroom training). This job observes swimmers as they swim to enforce the rules of each stroke. Each team must provide three (or more) Stroke & Turn judges for each half of a meet. Knowledge of swim strokes is extremely helpful but not required.

Clerk of Course – SAIL Certification is required (classroom training). The Head Clerk(s) of Course must attend SAIL classroom training. Head Clerk of Course works with the computer operator the day prior to the meet to organize the meet. Head Clerk of Course handles all (day of meet) scratches of absent swimmers and combines heats as necessary. Assistant Clerks keep the swimmers in proper order and move them up to the starting blocks in a timely fashion using a heat sheet as reference. The visiting team usually provides at least 1 clerk of course to assist the home team. Organizational skills are needed by the head clerk.

Timer – SAIL Certification is required (online training). For each lane there are 3 timers with stopwatches and 1 timer to record the results on the time card. The timer that records results must have legible handwriting. The teams provide watches and time cards. The home and visiting team each provide half of the timers needed. The Head Timer(s) must be SAIL certified as a Chief Timer.

Recorder– SAIL Certification is required(online training). The Head of Records must be SAIL certified. Recorder writes down all times from each timer in their lane for each heat onto the timer sheet.

Computers- SAIL Certification is required (online training) The computer operator merges the events between the two teams when it is a home meet to have the event line up. The operator will print labels and give to Head of Clerk of Course to be placed on blue cards. They also set up computers and inputs swim times given by the records into the computer software.

Ribbons – SAIL Certification is required (online training). The ribbons committee members affix swimmers’ labels onto ribbons for each finisher. The ribbons are then filed into each swimmers file.

Runners – SAIL Certification is required (online training). Pick up time sheets from the recorders and takes them to computers..

Tent Parent– NO SAIL Certification is required. Tent Parent volunteers stay with the swimmers during the meet and oversee the area where swimmers gather between events. They line the swimmers up by event using a heat sheet as reference and make sure they go to the Clerk of Course on time. While the Tent Parent’s role is to maintain order, it is not the Tent Parent volunteers' responsibility to manage the behavior of the swimmers.

Hospitality/water carriers – NO SAIL Certification is required. This committee is responsible for serving water to home and away volunteers during the meet.

Setup/Cleanup – The home pool area must be readied for the meet by removing furniture etc. and reset at the end of the Meet for the neighborhood’s use the next day. Parents are required to assist in these tasks. You are expected to fulfill this duty along with “every family’s obligation to volunteer every meet your child swims in”.

If you are unable to perform your volunteer assigned duty, YOU are responsible for finding a replacement to cover your family’s shift responsibility and

and notifying the volunteer coordinators.

SAIL TRAINING

Training dates will be sent out via email as soon as dates are set by SAIL.

• All Starters must take both Stroke & Turn and Starter classes.
• All Referees must take S&T, Starter, and Referee classes.
• Everyone must take the appropriate online tests.
• Everyone must sign in when they attend a class or else they will not be certified.
• When registering for your volunteer position for each meet you will attest of completion of the appropriate completion of training.

ADDITIONAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteers are needed to help our social events run as smoothly as possible. Please refer to the Signup Calendar on the website to find out about ways you can help with our social events.

GET INVOLVED

The Swim Team organization is more than swimmers. This is a strictly volunteer organization and there is always a need for more volunteer help! We welcome you to join the Swim Team Committee…NOW is the time to offer your much needed talents!

PARENT KICK-OFF MEETING

At the beginning of the season the team holds a Parent Kick-off Meeting to welcome everyone and give details about the upcoming season.

This short meeting will include a short introduction by the Board of Directors, a few words from the Head Coach, and a brief question and answer session.

SWIM TEAM PRACTICE SCHEDULE

Big Team will start practice in the afternoon in early May. Morning and afternoon practice will start once school is out. Practices continue up until Divisionals, and then are invitation only for C&C swimmers until those meets

Guppy practice starts after Memorial day.

Schedules will be posted on Swimtopia. An initial practice schedule will be released prior to registration. However, some adjustment may be made to the schedule based on registration numbers.

Swimmers should be at the pool 5-10 minutes before their practice session is to begin. Swimmers should be no more than 15 minutes early, but should have enough time to get settled and ready for practice. Practice will begin as scheduled, weather permitting. Any cancellation will be communicated through the team app. As a general rule, practice will be held if it is raining (unless it is accompanied by lightning/thunder or if it is extremely cold).

Parents are asked to refrain from talking to the coaches during practice sessions. The coaches have only the practice time to work with the swimmers, and their focus is on the team. Please feel free to email the coach through swimtopia and they will contact you as soon as they are able or please contact a FWST Board member.

SWIM MEETS

One of the main purposes of swim team is to ultimately compete in swim meets. For many new swimmers, taking the first step and going to their first competitive meet is a big undertaking. Our coaches understand this and are happy to share information about each meet and help make your child comfortable.

We encourage all swimmers to attend swim meets and compete in events. Swim meets provide an opportunity for the swimmers to measure the progress of their training and practice. Swim meets are also a social time, which enables the swimmers to build friendships with fellow teammates.All swimmers who commit to a meet should strive to participate in the events they signed up for. If they are unable to make a meet or an event, they need to inform the coach who can scratch them or replace them in any relays if necessary.

Swimmers must remain in the tent area during the meet. If they leave the tent area they must notify the head tent parent. Swimmers should remain aware of the current event lining up so that restroom and concession breaks can be planned accordingly.

Successful Swim Meet Tips (See Preparing for a Swim Meet on our website for more detailed information):

• Show up on-time (for warm-ups & events)
• Write the swimmers events on their arm or leg with permanent Sharpie marker. If possible do this at home, before the swimmer warms up (oily or wet arms are difficult to write on). Mark Event #, Heat #, Lane #, Stroke/Distance. Note: Aerosol sunscreen will remove sharpie.
• Swimmers should know who the tent parents are and follow their instructions. Tent parents line swimmers up for their events, so failure to pay attention to tent parents, will result in missed events.

Swimmer Time ResultsResults for each swim meet can be found at https://greenvillejournal.com/2023-swim-association-invitational-league-results/.

During swim meets, there are 60 individual events, plus 20 relays. Boys and girls in age groups from “8 and Under” to “15 to 18” (15/18) compete in individual events: Short Freestyle (Short Free), Individual Medley (IM), Breaststroke (Breast), Long Freestyle (Long Free), Backstroke (Back) or Butterfly (Butter or Fly). They may also compete in the Medley Relay and/or the Freestyle Relay.

Events at swim meets are scheduled by age groups. An event is the unique combination of age, sex, and stroke, such as: “9/10 Girls Short Free”. Each event may have several heats, depending upon the number of swimmers. Each swimmer can swim up to, but not more than, 3 individual events and 2 relay events per meet.

Parents will go to swimtopia and confirm that the swimmer will be available to swim at the next meet. Parents can select which events the swimmer would like to swim and make any notes to the coach to help with final selection. However, the final decision will be up to the Coach. Parents must volunteer at every meet in which their swimmer is participating. Any questions about this matter needs to go to the Volunteer Coordinator.

The coaches will let the swimmers know what time they need to be at the pool to warm up before each meet. Please allow sufficient travel time so that the swimmers arrive on schedule, especially when we are visiting other teams. Arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled warm up time allows the children time to get settled and get ready to go in the water.

DIVISIONAL MEET

The Divisional Meet will be held on Friday and Saturday at the end of the season.

Our swimmers will be competing against all of the other teams in the Division to try to achieve the highest possible score. The swimmers are allowed to swim in up to 3 events (individual) and 2 relays. The coaching staff will determine the best possible events for all swimmers, and will establish relay teams (medley and freestyle) for each age/gender group.

The highest scoring team is the Divisional meet winner. The Quality Point winner is calculated by dividing the total amount of team points by the number of swimmers participating from that team.

To be eligible to swim in the Divisional Meet a swimmer must have participated in at least two (2) dual meets and have a completed Intent To Swim Form (one form per family) on file with Head of Records. This form will be distributed at registration and must be correctly completed for swimmers to be eligible to swim in Divisional and C/C. The same form is used for both Divisionals and C/C and must be completed and on file for all swimmers regardless if you are swimming in these events.

All FWST swimmers are strongly encouraged to participate in the Divisional Meet!

CHAMPIONSHIPS AND CLASSICS MEETS

Championships and Classics will be held Saturday and Sunday after Divisionals at Westside Aquatic Center. All of the swimmers’ times from all six Divisional meets are computed to rank the swimmers for SAIL Championships and Classics eligibility.

We will be sending out information and clear instructions to all applicable swimmers (new and old) in regards to practice times; special events; what to expect the day of, etc… Please remember a completed Intent to Swim Form must be completed for a swimmer to eligible to swim in Divisionals or C/C (please refer to the Divisionals section for more information).

The Championships (held on Saturday) seed the 17th through the 40th ranked swimmers in the county in each age group per each stroke. There are Relays at Championships. The 9th -16th place relay teams from divisional results will compete at Championships in the Medley and Freestyle Relays. (Each team may have only one relay of each event/gender/age group in the top 16).

The Classics (held on Sunday) host the top 16 times in the county per event in male and female age groups. As is tradition, the top 8 relays teams from divisional results will compete at Classics in the Medley and Freestyle relays.

At the completion of SAIL Championships and Classics, all swimmers receive medals for each event they competed in, including relays. The high point swimmers overall at classics receive trophies (swimmers who win every individual event).

AWARDS CEREMONY

The swim team season would not be complete without holding our annual Awards ceremony. This is the time to pass out awards, recognize coaches, and reflect on the season’s accomplishments. We leave this celebration looking forward to next season! As more details are known for these ceremonies, information will be passed on to you.

IRON WAVE

Waverunners have the opportunity to earn the Iron Wave distinction each season. Iron Wave is successfully and legally completing each of the individual events offered in a swimmers age group. Concessions will not be made for swimmers who miss meets due to travel or illness. If a meet is rained out, the coaches may elect to make adjustments at their discretion.

RELAYS

The 'A' relay team is automatically generated based on the fastest combination of swimmer times. The ‘B’, ‘C’, etc. relays are also automatically generated based on the next fastest swimmers, but coaches have discretion to override and will not always represent the next fastest times. The relay team that swims an event at Divisionals will be the team that swims it at C&C (even if a swimmer’s divisional time puts them faster than one of the Divisional relay swimmers), unless someone from that team has 'opted' no for C&C, becomes ill, or injured.

WHAT TO BRING TO A SWIM MEET

There are a number of items that you should bring to a meet for your swimmer(s) in order for him/her to perform at their best. Please remember to label all items, especially your swim team t-shirt as everyone has the same shirt.

Here are some suggestions:

• Team Swim Suit
• Goggles – at least two pairs is recommended in case one breaks
• Team Swim Cap – May need 2 if one rips (Caps MUST be either completely blank without brand logos or contain the swim team logo)
• Team T-Shirt (optional)
• Change of Clothing – T-shirts, shorts, shoes/flip-flops, sweatshirt / sweatpants (for chilly evenings).
• Towels – bring extras.
• Water Bottle – drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated. Soda drinks contain carbons that may upset your stomach if you are nervous.
• Food – Bring light, healthy snacks such as trail mix, fruit, bagels, fruit juices (Gatorade, Power Ade, etc.)
• Money for concessions (optional)
• Something to keep busy during events (books, games, etc. Please no electronics for 10 & Under Swimmers!)
• Buddy Gift
• Backpack or Bag to hold swimmer’s gear
• Rain gear (Examples: poncho, large trash bag to cover chair, rain jacket, etc.)
• Sunscreen/ Bug Spray (optional)
• Folding Chair- For Swimmers in the tent area and parents on the pool deck.
• Don't forget your FWST Spirit and be ready to swim fast!!!

PARENTS REMEMBER: NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE ALLOWED DURING SWIM MEETS AND NO SMOKING ON DECK.

SAFETY

During all team practices at least one coach certified in CPR and Safety for Coaches OR a certified lifeguard must be present in order for water practice to occur. If this condition is not met, only dry land practice will be held. This level of safety is in alignment with the requirements of USA swimming. Each year, the board will determine which coaches should be certified based on their availability and schedules for the summer to ensure our coverage is maximized for the highest standards of safety during practices.

LOST & FOUND

You are strongly encouraged to label all of your swimmers’ equipment and clothing. Labeled equipment found at practice can easily be returned to the swimmer. Unlabeled equipment found around the pool deck will be placed in the lost and found area. Swimmers should keep all personal belongings on the pool deck during practice sessions in a bag with their name on it. It is recommended not to bring valuable personal items to the pool to prevent it from being damaged. The team is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

BUDDIES

At the beginning of the season, each swimmer will be paired with another swimmer as a buddy. Typically, boys 11 & up are paired with a boy 10 & under and girls 11 & up are paired with a girl 10 & under. During the season buddies will encourage each other and participate in fun organized activities. These activities will promote interaction among the older and younger swimmers and help create a fun and encouraging culture on our team. The buddies may make a poster for their buddy, learn the team cheer with their buddy or bring their buddy a small “buddy gift” before each meet as some examples of the activities during the season.

FUN FRIDAYS

Ribbons will be awarded for all individual events and relays at 9:00am on the Friday morning following the meet (except when variations are noted). They will be handed out by the Coaches along with donuts. This is a great opportunity for swimmers to get feedback on strokes and times along with encouragement from teammates and coaches.

DRAG DAY

This is a fun practice the week of Divisionals where swimmers can wear costumes, pajamas, or extra clothes to create “drag” when they are swimming.

CONCERNS

As in any organization involving significant numbers of families FWST cannot always be all things to all people. Although conflicts in our club are few, they occasionally arise, and we have a protocol for dealing with them.

If you have a concern about administration of the team, coaching, finances, other swimmers behavior, other parents/guardians behavior, or other related matters, please contact the board. Your concern will be taken to the following board meeting and mediated. A member of the board will follow up with you.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Prevent Swimmer’s Ear: Use drops every night if you think this will be an issue
• Pre-meet Stress: New Swimmers are often very anxious before their first meet. Assure your swimmer that it’s their participation that counts, not their speed. They will have contributed to their team simply by swimming. If your child is having trouble, let a coach know! They have all been there and have helped others through their worries.
• Pay attention to your child’s nutrition: Swimming is an endurance sport, both during practice and during meets. If there were ever a time to stress healthy eating habits and proper hydration, this summer is it.
• If you have no idea what you are doing, ASK. Other, more experienced parents are always willing to help.

GENERAL NOTES FOR PARENTS

Swimmers must know that while practice is fun, it is not a social event. If they are at the pool during practice time, they must practice. Please do not bring your swimmer, if they aren’t going to practice with the team.Encourage! Encourage! Encourage! Teach your swimmer to focus on stroke technique and improving on individual times, NOT on getting ribbons.

Have patience with your swimmer. It takes time to develop each stroke. Bringing your child to as many practices as possible will further their stroke development and help to build confidence as they prepare for meets. Remember that morning practice time is closed to the general pool membership and to parents, so morning practice lends itself to more time in the pool and better, more focused practice. Please have your swimmers try to attend both morning and afternoon practice.

CLOSING

We hope this Handbook was helpful for you and we welcome suggestions to keep this a dynamic document to help parents and swimmers for years to come.