Frequently Asked Questions

What should we bring for swim meets?

Please bring goggles (and maybe a backup pair), swim cap, sandals/flip flops, towels (typically one to dry off and an additional towel or blanket to sit on between events), water and snacks, books or games to pass the time between events, and, proper jackets/pants/sweatshirts to wear between the pool and car.

What should my swimmer do when we arrive at the meet?

Your swimmer should report to the bullpen area prior to warmups to meet the coaches. Swimmers can set up their towels and prepare for the meet. Swimmers should have his/her event information written on the arm.

What should parents/spectators do during meets?

Please go to the designated spectator areas to watch the events. During home meets (and some away meets depending on the home team rules), no spectators will be permitted on the pool deck. The only way a parent can access the pool deck is by volunteering to help with the meet. You can keep track of the results, if connectivity allows, via the MeetMobile app.

What should we do when my swimmer has completed all of his/her events?

When your swimmer has completed all of his/her events for the meet, they can clean up their things in the bullpen area. Feel free to continue to cheer on your fellow Sharks once you have finished your events.

What is a “DQ”?

If your swimmer has “DQ” instead of a time in MeetMobile, it means your swimmer has been disqualified for that event. The coaches will give your swimmer feedback regarding any DQs. Common ways to DQ:
- Freestyle – false start, missing the wall on a turn, touching the bottom, pulling on the lane line
- Backstroke – pulling on the lane line, rotating shoulders
- Breast stroke – arms dropping below hips, incorrect kick, improper pullout
- Butterfly – arms not in sync, incorrect kick

What is a "Qualifying Time"?

Swimming has time standards that are occasionally used for qualifying for specific meets. For example, swimmers must swim an Ohio Short Course Junior Championship Qualifying Time or faster in order to compete at the Ohio Junior Championships in March. Click here for Junior Championship Time Standards. Other meets may require a specific time such as a "B" time or "A" time to compete. Click here for Motivational Time Standards.

When will my swimmer receive his or her ribbons for meets?

Awards/Ribbons are distributed at the discretion of the host team for fall/winter swim meets. Either refer to the "Awards" section of the meet book for each meet (found on the meet registration page) or ask coaches if swimmers should expect awards for meets.

What happens at the end of season banquet?

During the end of season banquet, all of the swimmers, divers, coaches, and families recognize and celebrate the success of the swim and dive team throughout the season. You won’t want to miss it!