Why You Should Attend Swim Meets: The Value of Competition

Hello Swim Families!

As our first competition of the short course season is coming up in just a couple of days, I wanted to reach out to encourage you to participate in the other swim meets we will be competing in later this season, including the Legends Invitational in Wichita November 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th.

I am excited to announce that nearly 25 Marlins will be racing this weekend in Topeka—that is over 50 percent of our entire team!

For the newest members, I know a swim meet might seem daunting, but it is truly the best way to bond with teammates, and a great opportunity for parents to get to know one another. Swimmers not only sit with one another, but also cheer for and encourage one another. This is one of the best way for swimmers in different practice groups to get to know one another and create a more cohesive team atmosphere. When possible, we also arrange for team meals, giving swimmers another opportunity to bond outside of the pool.

Another stellar aspect of swim meets is relays! Being one of a group of four that are all contributing to the same race is one of the most fun and rewarding aspects of swimming.

Worried about not swimming fast enough or getting disqualified? Don’t be! Everyone has to start somewhere, and the coaching staff will never be upset with a swimmer for trying their hardest, regardless of the results.

Furthermore, one of the greatest aspects of competitive swimming is making friends on other teams and swimming at other amazing facilities around the state.

Also, swim meets are the best way for a swimmer to understand their improvement and growth. Swimming is an intrinsically measurable sport, and racing whenever possible creates a documented history of growth and development.

Finally, it’s fun to collect medals, ribbons, and trophies for your accomplishments. While this is far from the most important reason to race in meets, it is a fun bonus!

The registration deadline for the Legends Invitational in Wichita is October 30^th. After that, our next meet will be the Frosty Frolic in Topeka December 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd.

It’s okay if you can’t swim every day of a meet, just come and swim what you can, when you can! We understand your families are busy.

Please let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll see you at the pool!

-Coach Reid