Potomac Valley Swimming
Level 1

Evaluation Guidelines for New BWST Swimmers: Join the BLUE WAVE Experience

Details and Instructions for the 2025-2026 Swimming Season

Becoming part of BWST means joining a team driven by excellence, growth, and community. To ensure each swimmer is set up for success, all new athletes are required to complete a swim evaluation. This process helps our coaching staff place swimmers in squads that match their skill levels and developmental needs. Below, you'll find everything you need to prepare for your evaluation and take the next step toward joining the BLUE WAVE ohana.

Who Needs to Be Evaluated

  • All prospective swimmers must complete an evaluation before being placed in a squad. This step allows our coaching team to assess key areas such as skill level, technique, endurance, and readiness for team training.

Note: BWST is a competitive swim team—not a learn-to-swim program. Swimmers should already be proficient in basic swim strokes to be eligible.

Evaluation Start Date

Location of Evaluations


Evaluation Process

What to Expect

During the evaluation, swimmers will be asked to demonstrate proficiency in:

  • Freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly
  • Basic diving techniques
  • Endurance and overall comfort in the water

The evaluation is designed to be thorough but supportive, ensuring swimmers feel comfortable while showcasing their skills.

What to Bring

Swimmers should arrive prepared with appropriate swimming gear, including:

  • Swimsuits suited for competitive swimming
  • Swim cap (optional but recommended for kids with hair at or past shoulders)
  • Goggles
  • Towel

After the Evaluation

Following the session, coaches will review swimmer performances and assign squad placements based on individual readiness and growth potential.

You’ll receive your results on the same day, along with:

  • Squad assignment
  • Training Schedule
  • Team expectations and next steps

More Than Just Technique

  • At BWST, we value confidence, curiosity, and a strong team spirit. Evaluations are not only about technical skills but also about showing your enthusiasm and commitment to becoming part of the BWST team.

Need Help or Have Questions?

  • Reach out anytime to: Coach Gabe - [email protected]
  • For mid-season enrollment inquiries, Coach Gabe is your go-to contact as well.

Joining BWST is more than joining a team—it’s stepping into an environment where hard work meets encouragement, and every swimmer has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Welcome to the BLUE WAVE! 🌊