Overview of UMAC's Programs
The Upper Merion Aquatic Club (Marlins) is a member-run non-profit organization (501c3), administered by an elected Board of Directors. Our mission is the development and expansion of swimming and diving as a sport, as part of a wellness regimen, and as recreation for all age groups. We are not just a team, but also a community of parents and swimmer/divers. Through our programs, we promote the development of our swimmers and divers as athletes and as individuals; we aim to produce well-rounded young people who combine a life-long love of the sport with enhanced levels of self-discipline, personal responsibility, sportsmanship, and community-mindedness. Any swimmer or diver who demonstrates good character and dedication to the sport will always be welcome on our team.
Swimmers participate in the Suburban Aquatic League, with practices starting in September and meets running from November through early February.
In addition, we have our popular swim development programs that are broken into two parts, Swim Lessons and Minnows. These run in the spring usually starting in the middle of February and ending Memorial Day. These programs focus on teaching children to become strong swimmers as well as preparing them for competitive swimming.
We also offer two extended season sessions in the spring for those looking to continue training and compete in USA meets, Silver Champs, Junrior Olympics, and more.
Schedule of Programs for 2024-2025
REGISTRATION: Opens September 3, 2024
REGULAR TEAM PRACTICES BEGIN: September 16, 2024
SAL COMPETITIVE SEASON: Sept through the SAL Divisional and/or League Championships (late Jan./early Feb.)
EXTENDED SEASON: TBD
MINNOWS: TBD
SPRING CLINIC: TBD
Fall and Winter Programs
SAL SEASON: Our SWIM TEAM competes in the Suburban Aquatic League. We have six swim practice groups, from Developmental Group 1 (for swimmers new to competition) through Group 4 (for advanced swimmers who have demonstrated mastery of the key elements of the sport and dedication to the team); see our Practice Group descriptions and associated fees under separate tab.
Swim and dive team practices begin the week of September 16, 2024 and run through the SAL championships at the end of January . Swim meets are held on Saturday afternoons, beginning in November. Please note: all Marlins team members are expected to attend SAL meets.
MINNOWS: Starting in early February, this twice-weekly program is for children ages 5 - 8 who love to swim but are not quite ready for the competitive team. In small group 30 minute sessions, swimmers build endurance and master their strokes. In-person registration required; swimmers must come ready to get in the water and swim so instructors can evaluate their ability.
EXTENDED SEASONS: These programs are offered for current Marlins who wish to extend their competitive seasons through the end of March. Swimmers must join USA swimming, and will be competing in two or more USA meets, culminating either in Junior Olympics or the Silver Championships. Both programs begin after the SAL season is over and continue through March.
Spring Program
SPRING CLINIC: Our Spring Clinic includes swim lessons, dive lessons, and team training for swimmers and divers who are already on the team. It runs for five weeks, ending Memorial Day weekend, and provides an excellent "warm up" for summer swim competition.
