SWIM MEET BASICS

Going to your first swim meet is a little intimidating. What do you bring? Where do you go? What do you do when you get there? Help! There can be a very steep learning curve!

The following tips will help prepare you and your child for a more enjoyable meet experience.

*Our swim meets have sign-up deadlines. Frequently, sign-up deadlines are weeks prior to the actual event. Please understand this is a multi-step process and we enforce deadlines to make sure we don't get shut out of a meet.

What do I need to bring for my swimmer?

  • Race suit: I know it's obvious, but I have had kids show up without one! Bring a race suit and a spare one, just in case.
  • Goggles: Not a new pair, a tried and true, trusty pair of goggles and a back up pair just in case!
  • Swim cap: Everyone needs a BEAST swim cap. Children with short hair do not have to wear caps. No non-BEAST caps please! If you do not have a BEAST cap, ask a teammate or coach if they have an extra one.
  • Snacks/Drinks: Most meets allow coolers; many have concessions. Snacks: raisins, trail mix, Ritz bits w/peanut butter, Goldfish, grapes, small chunks of fruit or veggies, dry cereals, string cheese, beef jerky, protein bars, and dried fruit are good options! Don't forget to bring something to drink too- water is a must, and bring a Gatorade or electrolyte drink for extra hydration!
  • Extra towels/dry clothes: Extra towels are a must. After every event your swimmer will be wet and need to dry off. Generally, it’s a good idea to have a least one towel for every 2 events. Having a swim parka/sweats or similar clothing to wear over the swimsuit is also helpful in keeping warm and dry in between events. 

What should my swimmer do when they are not swimming?

  • Rest and sit with the team. Please try to avoid being on your phone- interact with the other swimmers/parents!

BEFORE THE MEET STARTS

1. Arrive at the pool at least 15 minutes before the scheduled warm-up time. This time will be emailed to you in the days before the meet.

2. Find the coach and check-in. This is your swimmer's responsibility. Make sure your swimmer checks in with their coach upon arrival! They will be given any special instructions and be told which lanes we will be assigned for warm up.