General Information

Question: What is the mission of the swim club?

Answer: The mission of the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Club is to provide a positive, supportive, and challenging environment where swimmers of all ages and abilities can develop their skills, reach their full potential, and foster a lifelong love of the sport. We are committed to promoting excellence in swimming, personal growth, and teamwork while emphasizing discipline, respect, and sportsmanship. Through dedication and hard work, we strive to build a foundation of confidence and character that will extend beyond the pool, empowering our athletes to succeed both in and out of the water.

Question: How can I join the swim club?

Answer: To join the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team, your child will need to participate in a tryout at the beginning of either the long course or short course season. Tryouts are held at the start of each season, typically in September for the short course season and in April for the long course season.  Locations for tryouts are held at both Shenendehowa Aquatic Center and Shaker High School.  Should this change, it will be announced on our website.

Question: Are there any age or skill level requirements to join?

Answer: The team accommodates swimmers of varying ages and skill levels, so your child will be placed in the appropriate age group based on their ability during tryouts.  Swimmers must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the basic strokes (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly). While your child doesn't need to be a seasoned competitor, they should have the ability to swim across the pool.  

Question: What is the cost to join the swim club?

Answer: The cost to join the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team varies based on the group your child is placed in. Our team has different practice groups based on age and skill level, with each group having its own associated fees. These fees help cover the cost of coaching, pool rentals, and other team expenses.  See our website for additional information.  Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas - Current Fees

• Additional Costs:

  • ​Equipment - Swimmers will need to purchase their own equipment, which typically includes a swimsuit, swim cap, goggles, and other gear (such as fins or a kickboard), depending on the swimmer's group and training needs.
  • Out-of-Town Meet Accommodation Stays - If your swimmer participates in out-of-town meets, additional costs may include accommodations, transportation, and meals for your family. These costs will vary depending on the location and duration of the meet.
  • Meet Entry Fees - Each swim meet has entry fees, which are typically charged per event. These fees help cover the costs of hosting the meet and are required to be paid ahead of time.

Question: How can I contact the club for more information?

Answer:  For more information about joining the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team, practices, or any other inquiries, please feel free to reach out to our Head Coach, Chuck Dunham. He can provide you with all the details you need regarding the team, tryouts, season schedules, and any other questions you may have.  You can contact Coach Chuck directly at [email protected]. 

Question: Where and when are the swim practices held?

Answer: Swim practices for the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas are typically held at several local pools, with the most common locations being Shenendehowa Aquatics Center, Shaker High School, and Schenectady High School.  However, practices are not limited to these facilities, and the team may also utilize other local pools as needed. The specific practice locations and times will depend on your child's age group and training schedule.

Programs and Classes

Question: What types of swim programs or classes are offered?

Answer: The Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team offers a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of swimmers at different skill levels. Our goal is to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all athletes to develop and improve their swimming abilities.  

• Intro to Swim:  This program is ideal for younger or less experienced swimmers who are just starting to explore the sport. It focuses on building basic swimming skills, water safety, and comfort in the pool. Swimmers will work on stroke development and gaining confidence in the water.  
• Mini Competitive Training Group: This group is for swimmers who have mastered basic swimming skills and are ready to begin refining their techniques. This group introduces swimmers to the fundamentals of competitive swimming, including training for endurance, stroke mechanics, and race strategies, while still focusing on having fun and developing a love for the sport.  Swimmers in this group participate in local meets.
• Competitive Training Groups:  These training groups are designed for swimmers who are ready to take their skills to the next level and compete in swim meets. These groups focus on advanced stroke technique, race preparation, endurance training, and the mental aspects of competition. Swimmers in this group participate in local and regional meets, with opportunities for swimmers to qualify for higher-level competitions.

Question: Do you offer swim lessons for beginners or children?

Answer:The Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team does not offer swim lessons for beginners or children who are just starting out in the water. However, if your child needs beginner-level swim lessons, we are happy to provide information on local programs that offer these lessons.  Once tryouts are completed and we assess your child’s skill level, if it is determined that they would benefit from beginner swim lessons, we will include recommendations for suitable programs in the email with the results from the tryouts.  Our primary focus is on swimmers who are ready to join one of our team training groups, but we are here to support your child's swimming journey at every stage!

Question: Is there a master’s program for adults?

Answer: No, the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team does not offer a master's program for adults. Our programs are primarily designed for youth swimmers of varying ages and skill levels.

Swim Meets and Competitions

Question: Does the club participate in swim meets or competitions?

Answer: Yes, the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team participates in swim meets and competitions. Depending on their skill level, swimmers in the Mini Competitive Training Group and Competitive Training Groups can compete in local, regional, and higher-level meets. These meets/competitions help swimmers develop their skills, build confidence, and gain valuable race experience.

Question: How can I sign up for a swim meet or competition?

Answer: To sign up for a swim meet or competition, swimmers and their families will receive information from their coach about upcoming meets, including dates, locations, and registration details. Coaches will enter your swimmer in events based on their skill level and training progress. Meet entry fees must be paid in advance, and families are responsible for any additional costs such as travel, accommodations, and meals for out-of-town meets.

Question: What is expected of swimmers when attending a competition?

Answer: When attending a competition with the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Team, swimmers are expected to:

• Arrive on Time: Arrive early to check in, warm up, and prepare mentally for their events.

• Bring Required Gear: Pack essential items such as swimsuits, team caps, goggles, towels, and any additional equipment specified by the coach.

• Demonstrate Sportsmanship: Show respect to teammates, competitors, officials, and coaches, regardless of the outcome.

• Stay Focused and Prepared: Listen to coaches' instructions, stay aware of the event schedule, and be ready for their races.

• Support the Team: Cheer on fellow teammates and contribute to a positive, encouraging environment.

• Follow Pool Rules and Etiquette: Adhere to the rules of the hosting facility and meet organizers.

• Communicate with Coaches: Check in with coaches before and after races for guidance and feedback.

• Take Care of Personal Needs: Stay hydrated, eat healthy snacks, and rest between events.

These expectations help ensure a smooth, positive experience for all swimmers and promote personal growth and team spirit.

Equipment and Gear

Question: What equipment do I need to participate in the swim club?

Answer: To participate in the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Club, swimmers need the following equipment:

• Required Equipment:
  • ​Swimsuit: A competitive-style swimsuit appropriate for training and meets.
  • Swim Cap: Team swim caps are often required during practices and competitions
  • Goggles: Well-fitting goggles to protect the eyes and improve visibility underwater.
  • Towel: Bring at least one towel for drying off after practice or races.
• Additional Gear (Depending on Group and Training Needs):
  • ​Fins: Used for stroke technique, speed, and endurance training.
  • Kickboard: Helps isolate the legs for kicking practice.
  • Pull Buoy: Used to isolate the arms during stroke work.
  • Hand Paddles: Helps develop upper body strength and improve stroke technique.
  • Water Bottle: Staying hydrated during practice is essential

Your coach will inform you of any specific equipment requirements based on your child's training group.

Question: Do I need to buy my own swim gear, or is it provided?

Answer: Swimmers are required to purchase their own swim gear for the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Club. This includes essential items like swimsuits, swim caps, goggles, and any additional training equipment such as fins or kickboards, depending on their group’s needs.  

The club does not provide personal swim gear, but coaches will give guidance on what specific items are needed and may recommend trusted brands or local suppliers.

Membership and Billing

Question: What are the membership benefits?

Answer: Membership in the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Club offers several benefits for swimmers and their families, including:

• Access to Quality Coaching: Swimmers receive expert coaching from experienced and certified coaches who provide individualized instruction to help each swimmer improve their technique, endurance, and race strategies.
• Team Environment and Support: Being part of the swim team fosters a sense of community, camaraderie, and team spirit. Swimmers develop friendships, learn teamwork, and support each other during practices and competitions.
• Structured Training and Progression: The club offers a well-organized training program with age-appropriate and skill-level-specific groups. This ensures swimmers are constantly challenged and can make progress at their own pace.
• Opportunities for Competitions: Swimmers can participate in local, regional, and higher-level swim meets, giving them the chance to test their skills, gain experience, and pursue personal goals.
• Personal Growth and Discipline: The club promotes values like discipline, respect, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Swimmers gain confidence in their abilities, both in and out of the water, and learn important life skills that extend beyond the pool.
• Access to Club-Branded Gear: Through the team shop, members can purchase club-branded gear and merchandise to show team pride.
• Travel Team Opportunities: Swimmers who qualify for the travel team have the chance to participate in out-of-town competitions, furthering their development and expanding their competitive experiences.
• Family Engagement: Families become part of the Piranhas community, with opportunities to volunteer, attend meets, and support their swimmers.
• Health and Safety Focus: The club prioritizes the safety and well-being of all swimmers with well-established protocols, including supervision by trained coaches and access to emergency procedures when needed.

These benefits help swimmers grow both athletically and personally, creating a positive and encouraging environments for all members.

Parent and Volunteer Involvement

Question: Are there volunteer opportunities available for parents?

Answer: Parents can get involved in the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Piranhas Swim Club in several ways:

• Volunteer at Swim Meets: Parents are encouraged to volunteer at local swim meets to help with various tasks, such as timing, concessions, and set up/break down of the event. Volunteering helps ensure the meets run smoothly and fosters a sense of community.
• Assist with Team Events: The club holds social events and team-building activities.  Parents can help organize or participate in these events to support the team and build team spirit.
• Support Your Swimmer: Encouraging and supporting your swimmer during practices and competitions is invaluable. Your presence at swim meets, cheering for the team, and showing enthusiasm helps boost team morale.
• Join the Parent Committee: We have different committees that helps support the team in various ways all season.

Weather and Cancellations

Question: What happens if a swim practice is canceled due to weather?

Answer: If a swim practice is canceled due to weather, you will be notified as soon as possible. The team will communicate the cancellation through the appropriate channels, such as email, text, or the team’s communication platform. Make sure your contact information is up to date so you can receive these important updates.

Question: How will I be notified of a practice cancellation or schedule change?

Answer: If a swim practice is canceled or if the schedule is changed, you will be notified as soon as possible. The team will communicate the cancellation or change through the appropriate channels, such as email, text, or the team’s communication platform. Make sure your contact information is up to date so you can receive these important updates.