Welcome to the Modesto Mavericks! Below are some answers to some of the most common questions from new and returning families. 

General

Q: What ages can join the swim team?
A: Swimmers typically range from ages 5-18. Children should be comfortable in the water and able to swim one length of the pool unassisted.

Q: When is the swim season?
A: Our season runs from April to July. Practices usually begin in April, and meets begin in May and are weekly.

Q: Do swimmers need to try out?
A: We do hold try-outs, usually the day before the first practice. The coaches want to make sure that everyone can swim at least one length of the pool unassisted. 

Q: What does Event, Heat, and Invitational mean?

A: This link has a list of all the swimming lingo, a lot of it you'll hear and some of them you won't but this is a really good list. https://www.gomotionapp.com/gulthst/UserFiles/File/Swim%20Team%20Playbook%20Glossary%20of%20Terms.pdf

Practices & Meets

*Please also refer to our Documents page for the Swim Meet Survival Guide*

Q: How often are practices held?
A: Practices are held Monday-Thursday by age group. Check the practice schedule for your swimmer’s age group.

Q: What should my swimmer bring to practice?
A: Swimmers should be in a swimsuit (1 piece for girls and jammers/briefs for boys), goggles, swim cap, towel, and a water bottle. Flip flops/Crocs are recommended for pool deck safety.

Q: Are swim meets mandatory?
A: Meets are not mandatory

Q: Do I have to purchase a team suit?

A: You do not have to purchase a team suit, your swimmer can wear an all black suit or a black and teal suit. 

Q: How many swim meets do we need to attend to make it to championships?

A: Your swimmer needs to attend at least 4 swim meets (Invitationals count) and have participated in at least 2 events each meet.

Q: Can my swimmer swim with a different age group?

A: No, your swimmer needs to stay with their own age group because they will also be swimming with their age group during meets. Please reach out if there are some major concerns (disabilities, etc) and we can get you in contact with a coach.

Q: What time do swim meets usually begin?

A: Swim meet check in usually begins at 7am and the meet begins at 8am. Dual meets can usually go until 2pm and Invitationals/Championships can usually go anywhere from 4pm-6pm.  

Parent Involvement

Q: Are parents expected to volunteer?
A: Yes. Our meets are run entirely by parent volunteers, and we rely on every family to help things run smoothly. We require each family to volunteer for one shift at every meet their swimmer attends. There are a variety of roles available, and we’ll provide the training you need—no experience necessary!

Q: How do I sign up to volunteer?
A: Volunteer sign-ups will be available online. You’ll receive an email when they open and reminders before they close.

Q: Do I have to volunteer for the fireworks booth?

A: Yes, we require every family to volunteer for 3-4 hours (usually thats 2 shifts). If you will be out of town, please reach out to the board asap and we can figure out an alternate plan. 

Q: Is there any fundraising related to the fireworks booth?
A: Yes. Each family will have the opportunity to sell presale scrips—these are vouchers that customers can use to buy fireworks at our booth. It's a great way to raise funds ahead of the 4th of July. We’re currently updating the process for this season, so please keep an eye out for more details. 

Q: When does the booth open and where is it located?

A: Our booth opens July 1st-July 4th. It is located on the corner of Hatch Rd and Richland Ave in front of the DD's Discounts store.

Costs & Registration

Q: How much does it cost to join the team?
A: Registration fees are $255 for one swimmer, for additional swimmers or a High School team swimmer please see our registration info page. This covers coaching, facility use, meet entry fees, and team equipment

Q: Are there any discounts or scholarships?
A: We offer discounts for multiple swimmers in one family and limited financial assistance on a case by case basis. Contact us at [email protected] for more information.

Contact & Communication

Q: How does the team communicate, and how can I contact someone if I have a question?
A: We use a few different methods to keep everyone informed and connected:

• Team Email: For official announcements, schedules, and general communication.

• Facebook: For quick updates

• Facebook Messenger: Direct messaging with board members

• GroupMe: For real-time updates, reminders, and quick team-wide communication—especially helpful on meet days.