What to expect at a Meet

Read the meet package!  Everything you need to know is in the meet package.

NEW Swim parents:  The first meet can be a lot.  Be there to help your swimmer and see what it's all about.  Although the club wants you to help officiate, get you and your child comfortable first.  Once you've got a meet (or three) under your belt, then sign up to be an official.

Scratches - If you are/were planning to be at the meet, but something happens and your swimmer needs to miss a race/session/day/entire meet; tell the coach ASAP.  Coach will scratch your swimmer from races.  

When should you get there?  At least 15 minutes before warmup. 

What should you do?  Check in with coach.  If you can't find coach, find your teammates.  Note:  Parents aren't allowed on deck during a meet.  

Finding out when your child swims:  Coach will have heat sheets.  Coach or older swimmers will help the younger swimmers get organized.  Alternatively, Meet Mobile, an app you can purchase that is used to provide unofficial race results during meets, will provide heat information. 

What to bring

  • Swim suit
  • Goggles
  • Riptides Swim Cap
  • 1 - 3 towels - this depends on your child. They will want to dry off after warmup and every race. Some swimmers use a single towel all session, others will go through all three.
  • Optional - deck shoes
  • Additional clothing/Swim Parka - Your swimmer may get cold and want to stay warm between races. They still need dry clothes at the end of the day too. Make sure everything is labelled! With all the athletes together, gear can get stuffed in someone else's bag by mistake.
  • Entertainment - books/games/activity or colouring books,etc. Bring electronics at your own risk.
  • Food/snacks
  • Water bottle

Tips for Parents

  • At your child's first swim meet, the priority is to have fun!  It sets the stage for the rest of their swim season.
  • Dress for a warm, humid pool.  Some facilities have good ventilation, others do not.
  • Bring something to do.  There can be a lot of time between races and you may want something to keep yourself busy.
  • Many facilities have bleacher seating which is great to start the day, but by the end of the meet may be uncomfortable.  Depending on your needs, you may want to purchase bleacher or stadium seats, or seating pads of some kind.  (Your winter jacket may be enough of a cushion.)
  • Time between sessions:  The time between morning and afternoon sessions of a meet can be several hours depending on when your child swims.  Make a plan for that time; whether it's heading back to the hotel for a nap, lunch & shopping, mini golf with your teammates, or killing time at the swim facility.   Being prepared will help you get through the day.
  • Spare gear for your swimmer - always have a spare swimsuit, goggles and cap.  Kids forget/lose/break things.  Having a spare packed is less stressful than trying to go shopping because your child forgot their swimsuit.