How do I join the competitive team?
Please go the to home page and go to the TIDE MEMBERSHIP INFO TAB. Then scroll down to the HOW TO JOIN sub tab.
What steps do I need to do after completing the online registration?
There are three steps that a family will need to do before their child can start to practice.
1. Send in the first page only of your 1040 tax return to our Executive Director at [email protected]. Please cross out all account numbers.
2. Once that has been sent in, the family will be sent an email with information that their child will need to complete our IXL Diagnostic for those swimmers age 5 and over. We will also want their report card to also be sent in. All information regarding our IXL and report cards shoul dbe sent to [email protected]. This is all part of our Team ACHIEVE program.
3. Once that has been completed, another email will be sent that will ask you to complete a survey for your child as well as regsitering your child with USA Swimming.
How strong of a swimmer does my child need to be in order to join the Advanced competitive team?
They must be able to perform the Novice team (Orange) criteria. If they cannot swim the minimum, we have a swim lesson and Novice Green program to teach them the fundamentals until they are ready for the next step. The coaching staff will help you find the most appropriate program based on their skill level.
Where are practices located?
Our main practice locations are at the William-Emslie YMCA. We also occasionally utilize other facilities. This information can be found under the Practice Schedule tab at the top of our website.
How often are swim meets?
Swimmers can generally compete one or two weekends a month in age-appropriate settings suited to their competitive level. There are usually no swim meets in September and April.
How much do swim meets cost?
At Buffalo TIDE, all of our swimmers meet fees are included in the membership fee structure.
What if I am involved in other sports?
Most of our swimmers participate and thrive in other sports and activities. We offer multiple days of practice for all levels.
Is there a lot of travel involved?
Most of our meets are in the Buffalo area, although we do offer the opportunity for the team to travel to meets in other areas. As our swimmers get faster, they might qualify for swim meets hosted in a variety of locations throughout the country.
How do I sign up for meets?
The coaching staff will sign each swimmer up for their events. Most meets are on Saturday and/or Sunday. There are occasional Friday night ealy evening sessions from time to time.
