Welcome to Rockford Riptide Swim Team!

Mission Statement: "To introduce children to the benefits of competitive swimming and encourage our athletes to reach their highest level of potential in and out of the water while demonstrating exceptional character, leadership, and sportsmanship skills."

Rockford Riptide – Where Passion Meets the Pool!

At Riptide, we’re more than just a swim team - we’re a powerhouse of dedication, teamwork, and excellence! Led by our dynamic head coach and dedicated parent board, we’re on a mission to build strong swimmers and an even stronger community. 

Whether you're just starting out or training for the next level, our club is designed to challenge, support, and inspire. Many of our swimmers make waves at the high school and collegiate levels, and we’re here to help you do the same.

Dive in, get involved, and let’s make a splash together!

Riptide Swim Seasons – Train, Compete, Excel!

At Rockford Riptide, we swim year-round with two distinct seasons designed to develop endurance, technique, and competitive edge.

Short Course Yards (SCY) – August to March

• 25-yard pool format
• More turns, which help build speed and improve technique

Long Course Meters (LCM) – April to July

• 50-meter Olympic-sized pool
• Fewer turns, allowing swimmers to build endurance and refine stroke technique
• The format used in Olympic competition

No matter the season, we’re here to help our swimmers level up and reach their full potential.

Riptide Club Structure

Rockford Riptide is built on two core programs:

Junior Riptide [JRR] – For new swimmers learning stroke techniques.
USA Swimming – For experienced swimmers who have mastered legal competitive strokes.

We train and compete as one team. Junior Riptide swimmers may participate in USA meets.

Progression Levels

• JRR Group 2 → JRR Group 3 → JRR Group 4 → USA Black → USA Orange → USA Senior
• Swimmers typically remain in each group for at least one Short Course Yards season. Coaches determine progression; advancement is not guaranteed.

Commitment Expectations

• Swimmers are expected to attend practices regularly and compete in two or more meets.
• Riptide is a competitive swim team, not a swim lesson program.

Stay Connected & Take Action

Easily access the most important team resources:

• Register Now – Sign up for Rockford Riptide (Team Unify)
• Meet Schedule – View upcoming meets and competition details
• Practice Schedule – Stay up to date on practice times and locations
• Volunteer Opportunities – Sign up to support our team (Sign-Up Genius)
• Join Our Facebook Group - The best place for updates, team discussions, and parent-to-parent support.