About Us
The "FISH Masters" name was coined and registered in 2008, and was the evolution of the Dutchess County Bluefish, who have been swimming together at the Poughkeepsie Middle School for over six years. We like to say that the name is an acronym for "Federated Independent Swimmers of the Hudson." The new name and organization are allowing FISH to grow to become a strong regional force in the Hudson Valley.
We have about 20 active team members who swim regularly and another 10 or so who come occasionally or seasonally. Swimmers of all levels are welcome to join us.
We are members of US Masters Swimming's Metropolitan LMSC and often join them for meets and clinics in the New York City Metro area. Any local swimmer who wants to compete in Masters meets is encouraged to register for our team with USMS, even if you practice elsewhere. Our team captain is Scott Woolley.
The following is from the Metropolitan LMSC website:
United States Masters Swimming (USMS) is an organized program of swimming for adults which has nearly 43,000 members, a few of whom are in their 90's and even 100's, but anyone 18 or over can join. It is not necessary to have previous experience in competitive swimming. USMS, Inc. is the National Governing Board which provides the administrative structure for Masters swimming.
The country is divided into eight regional zones comprised of smaller groups called Local Masters Swimming Committees (LMSC). LMSC's in turn are composed of smaller groups (clubs or teams and unaffiliated swimmers). Metropolitan LMSC, Inc. is a part of the Colonies Zone
As an individual, you may choose to join a team or club and enjoy the camaraderie and structure of the group. Competition is optional. Only 35% or so of Masters swimmers compete in swimming meets on a regular basis.
For those who are serious competitors, there are an incredible number of opportunities to test your skill and conditioning. Pool meets, lake and ocean open water swims, postal meets, special events and international championships are all part of an ambitious program of Masters swimming.
Masters swimming in New York City, Long Island and the Lower Hudson Valley (which includes Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester Counties) is governed by the Metropolitan LMSC which itself has over 1,700 members on almost 3 dozen teams.
You can register for FISH at the USMS registration site.