Marlin Prep

Marlin Prep, our pre-swim team group, is a transitional program bridging the gap from swim lessons to our competitive swim team for ages 5-14. Marlin Prep runs concurrently with DSMY Marlin swim teams. This program is not offered in the spring/summer.

Evaluation Requirements for Entry into Marlin Prep

  • Good Listening Skills
  • Steady and effective flutter kick
  • 25 yards freestyle with side breathing/face in the water (without stopping)
  • 25 yards backstroke (with a horizontal body position and coordinated flutter kick along with arms out of the water)

Practices Per Week & Length

  • 2 practices per week
  • 45 minutes per practice
     

Fall/Winter 2023-24 Season Details

  • Wednesdays and Fridays
  • 17 weeks from September 13 - January 26
    • ​No practices November 22 or 24
    • No practices December 20, 22, 27, or 29
  • Optional participation in up to 2 YMCA meets
  • Program cost: $478 (or 5 installments of $95.60)
  • Program cost includes season and tech fees
  • YMCA membership required

Spring/Summer 2023-24 

Marlin Prep is not being offered during the spring/summer season. 

Marlin Prep Equipment Needs

Your own: competitive swim suit, swim cap, competitive goggles, water bottle, towel and kickboard. Our team vendor is Elsmore Swim Shop in Urbandale.

Locations Offered

Waukee Family YMCA

Group Outcomes (per DSMY Athlete Progression Model)

Course Emphasis &
Water Skills

 

  • Short course (25 yard) emphasis
  • Stroke technique & kicking based
  • Fine tune side breathing
  • Introduction to breaststroke and butterfly
  • Introduction to flip turns and racing starts
  • Understanding of swimming language and practice etiquette
Character Development
  • Introduction of core values, team concept
  • To be a part of a FUN and safe environment
Meets and Competition

  • Prep Seasons will have a short practice "meet" to introduce the concept of competition
Group Goals
  • Progression to a swim team training group
  • Focus on the development process
Volunteering for Hosted Meets Guidelines

Required to help with home meets with a variety of positions available:

  • timer
  • runner
  • hospitality/concessions,
  • meet setup/break down
  • timing computer consol