Hello Mallard Parents,

This is the 30th year for the Neely Mallards Swim Team. Since many of you may be new to the swim team, I wanted to give you some tips:

SWIM REQUIREMENTS

In order to participate on the Neely Mallards swim team, your child must be able to swim the length (25 yds) of the pool unassisted (without a coach or parent in the water with them) in less than 3 minutes. Coach Madison will be evaluating the 6 & Under swimmers during May. If your child is unable to meet this requirement, we will recommend that he/she swim in the ducklings class. Your registration will be transferred to the Ducklings, and you will receive a check for the difference.

VOLUNTEERS

A member of each family is required to volunteer at EVERY meet your child swims in. The 6 & Unders will finish swimming early, so you will want to sign up to volunteer for first shift. These shifts tend to go fast, so I suggest you sign up now. You are also required to volunteer at ONE EVENT or for a second shift at a home meet. 

If you are uncertain of your child's swimming abilities, you may want to wait to sign up for a volunteer position until after swim practice begins.

SWIM PRACTICE

It is very important that your child shows up on time for swim. Your child's lesson is only 30 minutes. Please make sure he/she has goggles for practice. The first few weeks can be chilly, please bring an extra towel or robe or sweatshirt for after practice. I used to bring hot chocolate or warm apple cider to help warm up my girls. The weather can be chilly until the first swim meet, so please plan accordingly.

MEETS

Please instruct your kids to stay in the team area at meets. Swimmers are NOT permitted to play on any playgrounds or in any baby pools. We will have parent volunteers in the team area specifically assigned to the 6 & Under swimmers. You may want to bring an extra towel or chair for your child to sit on. You may also want to bring a plastic tub of stuff (legos, coloring books, cards, etc) to entertain your child during the meet. The kids tend to sit together and play.

If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Swim team is a great social event for the kids & parents. We have made so many great friends. I look forward to meeting you. 

See you at the pool soon!

Beth Ostapiuk

Swim Team Coordinator