Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need to know how to swim to join?

The first step is to have the swimmer evaluated by our coaching staff. The evaluation will indicate if the swimmer is ready for our competitive swim team, or if the swimmer should have additional swim lessons.

How long is the season?

Our fall/winter season runs from mid-September through mid-February.  Our spring/summer season runs from mid-April through mid-July.

When are practices?

Our practices are typically Monday through Friday, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., although the times are subject to change.  Individual practice times are determined by the practice group the swimmer was placed in.

Does my child have to attend all practices?

No.  We understand the challenges of juggling homework, work and other commitments.  You and your child decide what best fits into your schedule.  Generally, we encourage swimmers of all ages and ability levels to attend at least three practices per week to build endurance and skills.

Is there a volunteer commitment for parents?

As in any sports activity, the success of the team not only depends on the skills of the athlete and coach, but on the support system provided by volunteers as well. In order for us to host meets, parental involvement is a requirement. 

There are many ways to assist the team: Timing during swim meets, acting as Safety Marshal, helping at the Concession Stand, setup and tear down before and after meets, and many other duties necessary to keep our club running.

Is there a minimum parental involvement requirement?

A designated number of sessions will be required each season based on the number of meets our club will host.

Will someone train us for the different positions?

Absolutely!!!! Though none of the tasks are hard, we recognize they can be intimidating the first time.

You will always be briefed on how to carry out your responsibilities before you do them.

What if I am unable to fulfill my parental involvement requirements?

Our first hope is that swim families will participate, but we recognize that circumstances can prevent some from fulfilling their obligation in person. For those who can’t fulfill their parental involvement obligations, a buyout in the amount of $400 for the season, or $50 per individual session is available.

Any family not meeting their parental involvement requirements will be assessed a fine of $75 per missed session which must be paid in full prior to the end of the season.

Are there any fundraising obligations?

In addition to parental involvement requirements, each swim family is also required to raise $500 via fundraising.

This can be achieved through garnering swim team sponsorship or any other team-sponsored fundraising activities. All dollars exceeding the $500 required amount will result in a 25% credit to the swim family to be applied toward any swim fees (i.e. registration, meet fees). For those not wishing to participate in fundraising, an up-front buyout of $500 can be made at the time of registration.

How do I get in touch with Board Members or Coaches if I have a question or concern?

Please utilize email.   The board's contact information is on the Contact Us page.

On that topic, PLEASE remember to never interrupt a Coach during practice. For the safety and effectiveness of our training program, all communication must happen prior to practice or at the completion of practice when the coach is off the pool deck.

Only those individuals with USA Swimming Credentials (Swimmers, Coaches, Board Members) are permitted on deck outside of swim meets and club sponsored events.

What are the different types of meets?

HFSC participates in two types of swim meets: dual meets and USA meets.

• Dual meets are team meets in which HFSC swims against another club in the South Suburban Swim Conference. We also participate in the end of season conference meet. There is no entry fee for dual meets or the conference meet.  Conference meet participants are selected by our coaching staff.

• USA meets are bigger weekend meets. Swimmers have the opportunity to swim more individual events against swimmers from many other clubs. HFSC does host several of these meets every year and will be traveling to other meets as well. 

How much do USA meets cost?

There is a $2.00 surcharge per meet, plus individual event fees. The fee for individual events and relays range from $3.00 to $7.00 per event. Costs for a swimmer average approximately $15 to $30 per USA meet.

To accommodate these costs, the club sets up an Escrow Account for each swimmer.

Are swim meets only for the veteran swimmer?

NO! Dual meets are a great introduction to swimming in a meet. The swimmers stay on deck through the entire meet. There are teammates and coaches on deck to help the new swimmers.  

Most USA meets are for swimmers of all levels

The HFSC St. Nick’s meet in December is a great meet for a new swimmer.

What should my child bring to a swim meet?

It’s best to pack extra goggles, extra swim cap, two towels, sweatshirt/sweatpants or shorts to wear on the deck, healthy snacks (no candy!), drinks such as Gatorade or water.

Does my child have to compete?

No, though we would like for everyone to have the opportunity.  Dual meets are a fun and exciting display of athleticism and sportsmanship. Events are selected at the discretion of the coaching staff.

I still have questions about swim meets. Is there someone I can talk to?

Absolutely.  The coaches would be happy to answer questions (please remember to do so after practices, not on the pool deck), or you may contact any of the board members thru the Contact Us page.

Another resource for this is parents with older swimmers. They all went through the same experience, and had the same questions before.  They will be happy to share their experience and insights.

I have friends who are interested in joining, can they register mid-season?

Yes, they can, space permitting. Simply contact the Membership Director using the contact information on the Contact Us page.