GLENMOOR STINGRAYS

1. WHAT TO EXPECT AT A SWIM MEET 

• Arrival Time: Fred will email each week with the timing and meet details. Typically, swimmers arrive ready to get in the pool (their team swimsuits should be on when they arrive). 
  • Note: Coaches have emphasized the importance of warm-ups in preparing swimmers for their events. To ensure peak performance and minimize the risk of injury, we strongly encourage all swimmers to arrive on time for the designated warm-up session. Warm-ups are part of proper meet preparation and participation; they are not “optional”. 
• Parking: Parking can fill up quickly at both home and away meets, so please plan to arrive early and allow extra time. 
• Check-In: Swimmers must check in at the registration desk to confirm attendance. 
• Warm-Ups: At the coaches' direction, the 8-and-under swimmers will need to be in the water at 7 a.m. That means caps and goggles on and ready to go! Warm-ups will run from 7 a.m. to almost 8 a.m., and we plan to get started promptly at 8 a.m. 
• Event Schedule: The meet will follow a scheduled order of events. Be prepared for some events to run faster or slower than expected. Swimmers will compete in heats based on their age and skill level. 
• Timeouts & Delays: Delays may occur, especially when there are many swimmers or technical issues. It's essential to stay patient and keep your swimmer hydrated and focused. 

2. WHAT TO PACK

• Swim Gear: 
  • Swim cap 
  • Goggles (extra pairs are a good idea) 
  • Swimsuit 
  • Towel(s): Since the swimmers will be in and out of the water several times, with little time for a towel to dry, it is always a good idea to have an extra towel. 
  • Flip flops or water shoes. 
• Clothing: 
  • Team shirt or warm-up jacket (if applicable) 
  • Comfortable clothes for downtime 
  • An extra change of clothes for after the meet 
• Snacks & Hydration: 
  • Water bottle (hydration is key!) 
  • Healthy snacks (granola bars, fruit, nuts) 
  • Sports drink (electrolytes are important) 
• Other Essentials: 
  • Sunscreen 
  • A blanket or chair for sitting around the pool 
  • Swim bag for organizing gear 
  • Sharpie (for writing event numbers on the swimmer’s arm) 
    • Each meet you will receive a sticker with the swimmer’s schedule 
  • Blanket or extra towel to stay warm 
  • Cash for the snack bar and spirit gear (home meets) 

3. WHAT TO WEAR

• Pre-Event: Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to change out of quickly. Most swimmers wear a team shirt and sweatpants or shorts. For home meets, we have a theme. 
  • May 9 | Pajama Day 
  • May 16 | Disney 
  • June 6 | Tie Dye 
  • June 20 | Beach Day 
• In the Pool: Swimmers should wear their team suit, swim cap, and goggles. 
• Post-Event: Bring a towel and warm-up gear (team parka or hoodie) to stay warm after races, especially if you are waiting for multiple events. 

4. WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK 

• Before the Meet: 
  • A light, nutritious breakfast (like oatmeal, toast, or fruit) at least 2-3 hours before the meet. 
  • Avoid heavy, greasy foods and dairy that could make swimmers feel sluggish. 
• During the Meet: 
  • Keep it light. Healthy snacks such as granola bars, crackers, fruit, and veggies are great. 
  • Hydration is key—sip water or an electrolyte drink throughout the day. 
• After the Meet:
  • A balanced meal with protein and carbs (e.g., sandwich, pasta, or chicken with rice). 
  • Continue drinking water to stay hydrated and replenish after racing. 

5. WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE MEET 

• Heat & Event Numbers: Each swimmer will be assigned to heats based on age and skill level. Make sure to write down the heat number and lane for each race.
  • NOTE: Shepherds will assist younger swimmers in reaching the correct lanes and heats. However, swimmers ages 11 and up are expected to take responsibility for getting themselves to the blocks on time for their events. 
• Coaching: Swimmers will receive support and encouragement from their coaches before, during, and after each race. 
• Racing: Swimmers may race multiple events, so be ready for breaks in between. 
• Cheering: Parents and teammates should cheer on the swimmers. It’s a positive environment where everyone supports each other. 
• Job Assignments: Always ensure your shift is covered. There are two shifts for home and away meets. Typically, Shift 1 should be ready by 7:50 a.m.; Shift 2 varies, so plan to be close by, especially once you see backstrokers in the water. 

6. POST MEET

• Results: After each race, the results will be posted. Times will be recorded for personal improvement, and swimmers can discuss their performance with coaches. 
• Socializing: Swimmers often enjoy chatting with teammates and other swimmers after their events, so don’t be surprised if there’s some downtime between races. 

7. GENERAL TIPS

• Be Positive: Encourage your swimmer no matter the outcome. Every race is a learning experience. 
• Stay Organized: Keep all gear in a bag so nothing gets lost. 
• Stay Comfortable: Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable throughout the day. Patience is Key: Swim meets can run long, so be ready to wait and bring activities (books, games, etc.). 

Most importantly: Have fun and create lasting memories this season!