Mandatory Parent Participation — FAQs
Meets run on volunteer power. Here’s the why, what, and how — so our swimmers can race and our community can thrive.
1) Why do I need to participate?
Swim meets and events cannot run without parent volunteers. Each role you fill helps the entire session function safely and on time. When every family takes a shift, no family has to carry multiple roles and the meet day experience improves for everyone.
- Meets require many roles (timers, hospitality, runners, safety marshals, admin support).
- Shared participation keeps monthly dues lower and reduces burnout.
- Great modeling for athletes: teamwork, service, and accountability.
2) Why does MAKO host meets?
- Responsibility: New Mexico Swimming expects teams to help provide competition opportunities.
- Affordability: Hosting offsets costs so we can keep dues lower for families.
- Access: Ensures local opportunities for our swimmers to race a full slate of events.
3) “I need to be there for my swimmer.”
We hear you — and we’ve built options that work:
- Learn the ropes: We’ll train you for any role so you can volunteer and support your swimmer.
- Choose shifts wisely: Pick sessions when your athlete isn’t racing, or select roles near the blocks.
- Tag-team: Partner, older sibling, or relative can cover a shift.
Without parent help, there are no meets — and no racing. Your role matters!
4) Do I help if my swimmer isn’t competing?
Yes. Everyone benefits from lower dues and a strong meet‑host program — everyone contributes. Bonus: bring your swimmer to cheer teammates and learn meet flow.
5) Out of town — do I still owe the opt‑out fee?
Yes. Hosting is expensive and opt‑out fees help cover essential costs when a family cannot serve a shift. We always prefer volunteer time, but financial support still helps the meet run.
6) I don’t know how to do these jobs — what should I pick?
We’ll train you. Start with beginner‑friendly roles and grow as you get comfortable:
- Great first roles: Session Timer, Hospitality Runner, Meet Runner.
- Next steps: Head Timer, Safety Marshal, Admin Assistant, Program Sales.
- Advanced (training required): Administrative Official, Meet Director, Computer/Colorado Timing Operator.
Reminder: Please sign up for your volunteer slot as early as possible. Early sign‑ups help meet leadership plan staffing, improve flow, and reduce day‑of stress for everyone.
