OVERVIEW - The Gator swim team (ALGA) was established in 1979, is owned and operated by the nonprofit Alameda Swimming Pool Association (ASPA). Day-to-day management of the team is coordinated by a volunteer Parent Board. We offer a guided, age-group program for children ages five and up, from the novice level to elite competitive swimmers. A young person who becomes a member of the Gators learns the values of sportsmanship and teamwork. Swimming with the Gator Swim Team also enhances a child’s physical, emotional and intellectual skills.
MISSION - To develop the overall character, discipline in technical skills, and desire needed for each individual to maximize their potential. When a swimmer becomes a member of the Gators, he or she learns the value of sportsmanship and teamwork, and develops physical, emotional and intellectual skills that last a lifetime.
ELIGIBILITY - The Gators swim team is not intended to be a school of swimming instruction. In order to be accepted for membership, the swimmer should already be water safe and should be able to swim one full lap of the 25 yard pool non-stop and unassisted. The swimmer should be able to successfully complete a one hour workout. Acceptance is at the discretion of the coach. Qualifications for membership and required proficiency will vary depending on age. Once accepted, the swimmer is encouraged to attend workouts regularly. Workouts are held twelve months of the year. The exact hours of practice for each group depend on the season and pool availability.
TEAM GOALS - The Gator team philosophy is to develop each swimmer to his or her greatest potential. The coaching staff strives to teach, train, and motivate swimmers to achieve their personal best. We believe that their swimming experience will help them as they become young adults in today’s society. The development of healthy habits and a positive self-image are an important goal of our team. The Gator program works to instill in swimmers and understanding of and an appreciation for:
- Goal setting
- Goal achievement
- Self-motivation
- Team spirit
- Cooperation
- Time management
- Mental toughness
We believe the work and effort put toward achieving a goal is as significant as reaching the achievement itself. Our balanced coaching staff supports the development of the whole child. We expect these priorities from our swimmers:
- Academic excellence
- Dedicated swimming
- A wholesome social life
Organization and discipline are needed to succeed in today’s society. If the priorities listed above are distorted, a young person will not reach his/her full potential. With an organized life, we believe that swimmers can excel in academics, explore their swimming potential, and enjoy a wholesome, healthy life. Through swimming, our children can learn to be healthy, productive adults. This end result is as important as training young swimmers to reach for the Olympic Trials. Our policies and regulations reflect these goals.
