I’m a returning LARPD Electric Eel. Does my athlete need to attend the evaluation? No. Returning Electric Eels do not need to attend an evaluation.
My athlete was on another swim team. Do they need to attend the evaluation? Maybe. Please email [email protected] with your athlete’s previous team and competitive experience (including how many years). We’ll review and let you know if an evaluation is needed.
What is checked during the evaluation? This is a swim team, not swim lessons. The evaluation ensures athletes are safe in the water. Athletes will be asked to swim:
25 yards freestyle with side breathing
25 yards backstroke
Is it okay if my athlete does not know all four strokes? Yes. Our coaches work on teaching and refining all four competitive strokes throughout the season.
Can my athlete switch groups or practice times after registration? No. We are unable to accommodate schedule changes. With the size of our program, athletes must remain in their assigned group and practice time for the season.
Practices & Equipment
What does my athlete need for practice?
Boys: jammer (no board shorts), Girls: one-piece swimsuit, Goggles, Swim cap (required if athlete has long hair), Fins, Towel
My child has a camp/vacation/sick/activity and I will be unable to come to practice. Is there a make up practice?
No. It is OK to miss a practice, attendance is not taken. There are no make up practices.
Can I request to switch practice times? I would like all my children to swim at the same time.
No. Unfortunately, we can not offer practice switching.
Meets & Competition
How do I register my athlete for swim meets? Meet registration is completed through our website.
What should we do when we arrive at a swim meet?
Set up your family seating area. Our team sits together; once the host team assigns our space, that information will be shared.
Athletes must check in at the Electric Eels Check-In table to receive a name slip. This helps coaches know who is present and ready to swim.
What should families bring to a meet?
Pop-up canopy (optional)
Chairs for family members
Water, snacks, and entertainment (books, cards, etc.)
Swimmers must bring: suit, goggles, and team cap (provided)
What is the typical meet event order?
Medley Relay (4 swimmers per team)
Freestyle
Butterfly
Breaststroke
Individual Medley (ages 9+)
Backstroke
Freestyle Relay (4 swimmers per team)
Each event runs by age group, from youngest to oldest.
Additional Helpful Questions
Does my athlete have to swim every event at a meet? No. Coaches determine events based on age, ability, and meet format.
Do I pick my athletes events at a swim meet? No. Coaches will do the meet entries. Athletes will be swim all events over the course of the season.
What if my athlete is nervous about their first meet? That’s completely normal! Coaches and teammates will help guide new swimmers through the process.
How is the Championship team selected? The rules of VSL state that athletes must attend at least 2 dual meets to be eligible. Each team may enter up to 2 athletes per individual event and 1 relay. From the eligible athletes, coaches will select the fastest possible lineup based on availability.
