Expectations

Although swimming & diving are considered individual sports,

we place an emphasis on the team unity and good sportsmanship.

Any team is only as good as the people on it.

EXPECTATIONS FOR OUR SWIMMERS & DIVERS

1. You must be able to swim: The Niskayuna Modified Swim Team is not a swim lesson program. A swimmer should be able to swim 2 lengths of the pool to join the team. We will help each swimmer with stroke technique, strength and endurance.

2. Keep your commitments: We plan on each swimmer being available for all swim meets unless we are told that you are not available ahead of time. The meet lineup is started 3 days ahead, so contact the coach as early as possible.

3. Be on time for each practice. Swimmers should be in their suits ready to warm up at 5:00 pm. If you miss a practice, let the coach know in person the next day, why you were not present. (Emails are not required unless it is for multiple days). League policy states that swimmers must make 15 practices before they are allowed to swim in their first meet.

4. If you need bus transportation to the High School from a Middle School, you must go directly to the pool area and do your homework or sit quietly until practice begins. Swimmers who fool around during this time or disrupt the varsity practice in any way will not be allowed to ride the bus to practice. There are no 2nd chances, so please be sure that you can follow this rule if you need the middle school bus.

5. Swimmers are expected to ride the bus home from away meets unless a signed note from a parent is handed to the coach. District policy states that no sibling or friend or other swimmers parents may pick up students at away events (even with a note).

6. Jewelry is not permitted during swim meets. This includes earrings, bracelets, anklets, etc. Even a rubber band on your wrist could cause a disqualification.

7. Swimmers that have a team suit and/or team cap should wear them to each meet. They do not need to be worn during practice.

8. Good sportsmanship is expected at every practice and every meet. Poor sportsmanship may result in being taken out of a meet or taken off the team.

9. Pay attention to your coach: In order to maximize your gains, it is important to listen to and respect your coach.

10. Do your best: You will see the most improvement when you give the most effort. It is more important to do your best than to be the best.

11. Have fun! This is a great opportunity to make some friends, get in shape, refine your stroke techniques and support your school!

EXPECTATIONS FOR FAMILIES

1. There are a number of volunteer positions that help us run our meets. We are sure that there will be a job that is just right for you that will be lots of fun! If each family had a volunteer at 2 meets during the season, we should be able to cover the responsibilities. See the list of volunteer possibilities below.

2. Communicate your questions, comments, opinions or suggestions to the coach. We value your input. The best way to reach the coach is by email. For safety reasons, the coach should not be approached during practices or meets.

3. Complete and return all your forms ASAP. Forms must be submitted BEFORE the first swim team practice.

4. Model good sportsmanship to your swimmers.

Parent Volunteer Positions

At Meets

Timers at home meets

Scoring Table to tally events each swimmer swims

Announcer at home meets

Other

Bake cookies for after meets

Help at the End of Season Dinner

Team Party or Movie Night at your house