Swim Meet Guide: A Family-Friendly Experience

Welcome to the exciting world of swim meets! These events are a fantastic opportunity for families to spend quality time together while supporting their athletes. We've put together some detailed guidelines to help you navigate your first few meets. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your coach.

Meet Participation

• Blue Crush (Legacy) athletes are encouraged to participate in competitions.
• A coaching fee of $7 will be added to each participant’s invoice for each meet after the first meet of the month. Championship events will have a $20 coaching fee.
• Participants are responsible for all fees associated with the events they register for. If an athlete does not attend a registered event, they are still responsible for the fees.

Before the Meet Starts

• Arrive at the pool at least 15 minutes before warm-up begins (or earlier for better seating). Warm-up times are posted on our website and emailed beforehand.
• Find a spot for your swimmer's gear. The team usually sits together, so look for familiar faces.
• Check in with the coaches. Parents typically aren't allowed on deck, so swimmers should check in themselves or with their coach. 
• Most meets are "pre-seeded," meaning no additional check-in is needed. Heat and lane assignments can be found in the program, which will be emailed out.  

Warm-Up and Waiting

• Swimmers should warm up with the team. It's crucial for preparing their bodies for competition.
• After warm-up, swimmers return to the team area or sit with you if they're younger. This is a good time for bathroom breaks, drinks, or settling in.
• The meet typically starts 10-15 minutes after warm-ups.

During the Meet

• Swimmers should know their event numbers, which are often written on their arms.
• Swimmers should see  their coaches before heading to their lanes a few heats before their event. In some meets, they may be called to the "clerk of course" or “bullpen.”

After Each Swim

• Swimmers should ask timers for their times and may need to do recovery swimming if available.
• Swimmers should immediately see their coach for feedback, which usually includes positive comments, suggestions for improvement, and more positive reinforcement.

Parental Support

• Encourage your swimmer by telling them how great they did. The coaches will handle technical feedback.
• Relax with your swimmer in the team area, and take breaks as needed.
• Before leaving, check with the coach to ensure your swimmer isn't needed for a relay.

Post-Meet

• Results are posted at the facility. Awards are collected by the coach and distributed later.

We hope this guide helps you enjoy the swim meet experience. Thank you for being a part of our Blue Crush Family!