New Parent Info

Welcome to SwordFish Swim Team! Our goal is to create a positive, supportive environment where competitive swimming becomes both a rewarding experience and a lifelong passion for your athlete—and an enjoyable journey for your family.

If you are new to the sport, the USA Swimming website is an excellent resource for learning more about competitive swimming, meet formats, and athlete development.

Step 1: Practice & Meet Gear

Practice Attire

To ensure safety, efficiency, and proper technique during training, the following attire is required:

• Girls: A fitted competition-style swimsuit

• Boys: A fitted competition-style swimsuit

  • Jammers (longer, cycling-style suits) or briefs (“Speedo”-style)

Please note: Surf, beach, board shorts, and non-fitted tankini-style swimsuits restrict movement and are not permitted for practice.

Meet Attire

At swim meets, all swimmers are required to wear:

• A competition (racing) suit

• The official SFS Team Swim Cap

Step 2: How to Sign Up for a Swim Meet

Ready to race? Follow these steps to register for a swim meet:

1. Log in and navigate to the SFS Calendar

2. Click on Team Events

3. Select the swim meet you wish to attend and carefully review any meet requirements or restrictions

4. Click “Attend”

5. If your swimmer is only available on specific days, use the notes section to indicate availability

Event Selection:
SFS coaches will determine and assign your swimmer’s events based on training, readiness, and meet guidelines.

Meet Registration & Fees Process

• After the sign-up deadline, an Initial Roster & Fees email will be sent to registered families

  • Parents should review the roster and submit any corrections or changes by the stated deadline

  • This is the final opportunity to withdraw your swimmer without incurring meet fees

• A Final Roster & Fees email will then be sent

  • At this point, families are financially responsible for meet fees, even if the swimmer cannot attend

• Meet fees will be posted to each member’s account and must be paid prior to the event

• SFS handles all meet entries and submits payment to the host team on your behalf

Step 3: What to Expect at a Swim Meet

If this is your first swim meet—welcome! It may seem overwhelming at first, but with a little preparation, it can be a fun and exciting experience for both swimmers and parents.

Not sure what a heat sheet is? Unsure how to “mark up” your swimmer? Follow the tips below and enjoy the day!

What to Bring to a Swim Meet

• Permanent marker (Sharpie)

• Highlighter and ink pen

• Extra towels

• Blanket for seating

• Foldable chairs (optional)

• Books, games, cards, or quiet activities

• Light, healthy snacks and drinks (if permitted)

• Extra goggles and SFS team swim cap

• Competition swimsuit

Preparing Your Swimmer for Racing

1. Download or purchase a heat sheet (event program)

2. Highlight or mark your swimmer’s name and events so you can easily follow along

3. Before each race, ensure your swimmer checks in with their coach

   • Coaches will confirm heat, lane, and staging details

4. After each race, swimmers should return to their coach to review performance and receive feedback

Helpful Parent Tip: Event Tracking Grid

Many parents find it helpful to create a simple tracking grid for the day:

This makes it easier to stay organized and ensure your swimmer is ready for each race.

We’re excited to have your family as part of the SwordFish Swim Team and look forward to a successful and rewarding season together!