PARENTS 101

Parent help is crucial to the operation of a competitive swim team. Parents are required to volunteer a minimum of 20 hours per season. This may be in the form of timing, computer operation, admissions, fundraising, etc.

Parent Volunteers

Home (@ Flushing YMCA) meets require a minimum of ~35 volunteers to run the meet smoothly.  If your swimmer is participating, you will be asked to support a position for the team, such as a timer, a runner, a marshall, concessions, or admissions. 

Definitions of Positions (see Volunteer Job Descriptions)

• Admissions - Swim meets charge for spectators to view the meets. Sometimes the meet program (heat sheet) is charged extra with the price of admission.
• Timers - On the pool deck behind the starting blocks using a stopwatch (or other timing device and/or plunger) to capture the time of the swimmer in your lane and record it. You will get wet. : )
• Runners - collect all timers sheets. 
• Marshals - The adult(s) who control the crowd and swimmer flow at a swim meet.
• Concession Stand/Snack Bar Attendant/Worker - Responsible for the point of sale of goods at the snack bar. Positions to help with set up and clean up are also available.
• Computer Operator (requires some training) - Includes, loading the meet program, verifying that the heats are full and seeded correctly, and help capture electronic times.