SWIMMERS-All About Swim Meets

“It's a good idea to begin at the bottom in everything except in learning to swim”

 All About Swim Meets- A Guide for Swimmers

What equipment should I bring?

When representing your club, all swimmers must wear the team swim suit and cap.  If possible, have available an extra pair of googles, an extra GSH cap and a backup swimsuit just in case!  Don't forget your team shirt, track pants, sweatshirt, GSH warm-up suit etc. to keep you warm between swims.  Bring two towels, one for drying off between races and one for getting changed with later.  Make sure your name is on all items- team shirts and suits all look alike!

What should I eat and when?

Before: eat a meal at least 2 hours before your scheduled warm-up time.  Examples: cereal (low in sugar), toast, bagels, pancakes (not too much sugar), juice and fruit.

During: Bring a water bottle and drink lots of water!!  Diluted sports drinks, fruit juices, energy bars (small amounts at a time) crackers, fruits, veggies, yoghurt etc.

After: A well balanced meal (protein and carbs) such as spaghetti and meatballs, steak and potatoes etc.

When should I be there?

Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes prior to the start of warm-up.  Find your coach and check in with them.  Your coach will be glad to go over the events you will be swimming.

How do we warm-up?

Each group will try to warm-p together.  Your coach will tell you exactly what to swim.  A few minutes before the end of the warm-up you will have a chance to practise starts off the block with your group.

What about after the warm-up?

Put on your t-shirt or sweat shirt, track pants etc. to keep warm.  Have something to drink and a bite to eat (not too much), and relax.

What do we do when we are not swimming?

Cheer and support your team mates!  This is an important part of being a team.  Stay out on deck so that you can hear when your events are being marshalled.  If the meet does not provide marshalling you will need to pay special attention to what events are currently in the water and when your events are scheduled.  Don't hang out in hallways, change rooms, or other far away places.  If you need to see your parents or go to the bathroom, go and come back quickly so you don't miss your swim.  Make sure you talk to your coach before and after your swim!

Respect the facility- put all garbage in the bins, follow all posted rules and respect and follow the directions of staff.

Respect the Officials and other swimmers- QUIET for the starts, stay in the water until everyone finishes the race, and don't laugh or make fun of others.  Please try to stay out of the way of the Officials.

Last but not least....HAVE FUN!!!!