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Old Church Otters Swim Team

Swim Team Handbook

Use this digital handbook to learn all about the OC Otters Swim Team!

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INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

REGISTRATION

MEET THE COACH

WELCOME & COTACTS

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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Quick Access

WELCOME & CONTACTS

(PAGES 1-8)

TIME TO VOLUNTEER!

(PAGES 59-72)

MEET THE COACH

(PAGES 9-12)

CONCESSIONS

(PAGES 73-80)

REGISTRATION

(PAGES 13-20)

LET’S CELEBRATE!

(PAGES 81-84)

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

(PAGES 21-28)

TIME STANDARDS

(PAGES 85-88)

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

(PAGES 29-34)

READING THE RESULTS

(PAGES 89-100)

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

(PAGES 35-50)

CHAMPS

(PAGES 101-104)

INCLEMENT WEATHER

(PAGES 51-58)

SPONSORSHIPS

(PAGES 105-107)

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MORE SWIM MEET DETAILS

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WELCOME & CONTACTS

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WELCOME

The Old Church Community Center sponsors a swim team to provide an environment that fosters fun, fitness, proper swimming technique, and competition. Team participation promotes sportsmanship, self-esteem, self-discipline, accountability, and social interaction among a wide variety of age groups.

Our goal is to encourage swimmers to strive for personal excellence in a spirit of goodwill and fair play.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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WELCOME

The OC Otters offer a competitive swimming program for swimmers age 5 to 18. Our coaches strive to implement proper swimming technique while improving efficiency in each athlete throughout their swimming experience.

To qualify for swim team, a swimmer’s family must be in good standing with Old Church Community Center - meaning dues are paid in full.

Swimmers must be competent at making it unassisted for one length of the pool (25 yards) at the end of the first week of practice.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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WELCOME

The final determination is decided by the coaching staff in collaboration with the swim team coordinator.

The first week of practice is a “trial” week for new swimmers, and allows the coaches to work with each swimmer in order to gauge proficiency, safety, and improvement in the water.

Please join us in supporting our children and dedicated coaches and parents for the 2026 swim season.

Our expectation is that all spectators will act as positive role models, creating a friendly and uplifting environment for both our team and the visiting teams.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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CONTACTS

The Old Church Community Center swim team is a member of the Greater Richmond Aquatic League (GRAL). We abide by the rules of this league as well as our community center by-laws. Information about GRAL can be found on their website, including their mission, divisions and division times, meet schedule, top times of the season, Champs qualifying times, records and more.

www.gralva.com

Contact Information

Head Coach: Courtney Hurtubise, ocswimteam@gmail.com

OC Swim Team Coordinator:

Amy Owen, arowen1@gmail.com

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MEET THE COACH

Courtney Hurtubise is in her 14th year as Head Coach of the Old Church Otters. She has been a competitive swimmer since she was five years old - swimming summer league, high school, and as a Division 1 athlete for the University of Tennessee.

Her coaching experience dates back to 2003, with experience as both a summer league coach and high school swimming coach.

As a coach, Courtney spends time focusing on teaching the proper techniques for the four competitive strokes while also encouraging athletes to grow out of their comfort zone and reach new heights.

Courtney and her husband, Jim, are passionate about serving Old Church Community Center and currently have a daughter and a son on the swim team and a college age child who swam for OC for years!

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

REGISTRATION

MEET THE COACH

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MEET THE COACH

Connor Brooks

Part Time Assistant Coach

Connor is an Old Church Otter who has been swimming for years and has shown amazing leadership on the team. He is great at encouraging our swimmers to be their best, and his knowledge of the sport makes him more than capable of guiding even our youngest Otters to improve their skill and technique. He has lifeguarded at OCCC, provided swim lessons, and managed the pool at American Family. He is a member of the varsity swim team at MHS and also swims year-round for the Hurricanes.

Taylor Whitlow

Assistant Coach

Taylor Whitlow has served as our Assistant Coach for our 12 and under swimmers and will not be a full time assistant coach. Taylor has been swimming for the past 10 years, has served as a junior coach at Mechanicsville Recreation Association, and was part of the OC Otters coaching staff during the 2023 swim season. She has participated in year-round swimming, and has swam for Hanover High school. She has repeatedly qualified for Champs and made Hawk Invitational and Regional times. She enjoys helping younger swimmers learn proper technique while also developing a passion for the sport.

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REGISTRATION

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

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REGISTRATION

Early Bird Registration

Now - April 24, 2026

$110 first swimmer, $75 each additional swimmer

Regular Registration

April 25 - May 16 , 2026

$135 first swimmer, $75 each additional swimmer

Late Registration

After May 19, 2026

$160 first swimmer, $75 each additional swimmer

Families interested in registering a swimmer for the OC Otters swim team can do so through the mail, or in person.

Old Church Community Center

PO BOX 182

Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Access the 2026 Registration Form Below:

2026 Registration Form

**Please Note**

that before a swimmer can

register for swim team, membership dues for the year must be paid in full.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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REGISTRATION

During in-person registration, you will have the chance to:

  • meet the coaches
  • complete forms and provide payment for swim team (cash, check accepted)
  • try on swim team apparel (suit)
  • sign up for volunteer opportunities
  • learn more about the OC Otters swim team

In-person Registration Opportunity:

April 24, 2026

5:00 - 7:00 PM

OCCC Clubhouse

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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PRACTICE SCHEDULE

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MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

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REGISTRATION

When registering a swimmer for swim team, please be ready to provide the following information:

  • swimmer’s name (first, last, middle initial) and date of birth
  • swimmer’s t-shirt size
  • contact information for family members wishing to receive swim team communications (emails & phone numbers)
  • swimmer’s primary care doctor

(please be ready to provide name, and phone number)

  • any allergies or medical issues that the coaching staff needs to be aware of

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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REGISTRATION

Financial Investment Breakdown

REQUIRED INVESTMENTS

MEMBERSHIP

PAID IN FULL

REGISTRATION

Early Bird

($110 first swimmer, $75 each additional swimmer)

Regular

($135 first swimmer, $75 each additional swimmer)

Late

($160 first swimmer, $75 each additional swimmer)

CONCESSION DONATIONS

$50

(Venmo/Cash/Check - OR - food/drink donations at each of the 3 home meets)

OPTIONAL INVESTMENTS

TEAM SUIT

~ $60

GOGGLES

~ $20

GOGGLE BUNGEE

~ $5

SWIM CAP

$5

SWIM FINS

(RECOMMENDED FOR 8 YEARS AND UNDER SWIMMERS)

~ $25

KICK BOARD

~ $15

BANQUET

~ $15 PER FAMILY

(in form of food donation only if participating)

CHAMPS SHIRT & SWIM CAP

$27

($15 SHIRT / $12 CAP)

SWIM-A-THON

YOU DECIDE

SWIM TEAM SWAG

YOU DECIDE

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SWIM TEAM APPAREL

Quality Competition Goggles:

Proper competition goggles are more functional in a competitive setting and last longer than standard

goggles. We recommend

name brands like Speedo

and TYR.

Goggle Bungees:

Bungees allow the transition

time from the “training”

setting to the “competition” setting to occur more efficiently during practices and meets, and tremendously reduces typical goggle issues during diving.

Recommended Swim Apparel

(Not Mandatory)

Swim Fins:

Swim fins are used regularly during practice. While we do have some on site, they are well loved and not in the best shape. We recommend that 8 and under swimmers have their own

fins to ensure proper fit.

If you need help with

sizing, please see a

coach.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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TIME STANDARDS

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

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MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

WELCOME & COTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

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SWIM TEAM APPAREL

Registered swimmers receive a free OC Otters t-shirt with all Otters’ names printed on the back!

At swim team registration, swimmers will be able to try on suits for sizing. Families can then order suits online through SwimOutlet. There will also be goggles, goggle bungees available for purchase. Our team suits are used for a two-year cycle, so if suits are worn only at meets (which is recommended), they should last two summers, unless the swimmer outgrows it.

Purchasing any swim team apparel is always optional.

Female team suits tend to run between $50-$60, and male suits between $30-$40.

If you choose not to purchase a team suit, please do your best to find a swimsuit that closely matches our OC Otter colors of royal blue and black.

Whether at practice or during a meet, all suits worn should be a fitted, competitive style suit.

(no ruffles, tankinis or board shorts)

CLICK HERE TO ORDER A SWIM TEAM SUIT

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

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SWIM TEAM APPAREL

Swim Cap:

Team swim caps will be available for purchase at the start of the season. Caps cost $5. They are required at all meets for females and males with long hair. Caps during practice are recommended as they prevent long hair from getting in the swimmers face and improve breathing technique. Swimmers choosing not to wear a cap to practice need a hair tie

to contain their long hair.

* Swimsuits and swim caps worn during meets

cannot have the name or logo of a different

swim team.

Kick Boards:

Swimmers (especially 8 and under swimmers) use kickboards regularly during practice to allow swimmers to focus on their kicks, strokes, and breathing techniques.

All recommended swim gear can be purchased at:

www.swimoutlet.com

or another outlet of your choosing.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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PRACTICE SCHEDULE

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SWIM TEAM APPAREL

Team Swag:

There will be an

opportunity to purchase

additional team swag for

swimmers and their fans. These items may include wearable items like tank tops, t-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, shorts, hats, etc.

We are working to set up a team swag shop through SwimOutlet. We will communicate when that is open!

Champs Swag:

Qualifiers for Champs will have the opportunity to purchase an Otters Champs t-shirt and silicone Champs cap.

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PRACTICE SCHEDULE

THIS YEAR

May 18 - 22, 2026

(Monday - Friday - Evenings Only)

5:00 - 5:30 PM New 8U Trial Swimmers

5:30 - 6:00 PM Returning 8 and

Unders

6:00 - 6:45 PM 9 - 12 year olds

6:30 - 7:30 PM 13 and up

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

Practice Expectations

While there are no set practice minimums or maximum requirements, it is encouraged that your swimmers try to make it to at least three practices per week. This will allow them time to incorporate what the coaches are trying to teach, develop a conditioning base, as well as bond with their teammates and coaches. Swimmers are allowed to attend as many practices per week as they choose. Please have your swimmer at the pool in enough time to have their caps and goggles on before the start of practice. This will ensure everyone gets the maximum benefit out of their practice time, with limited interruptions to other swimmers.

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

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MEET THE COACH

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SWIM TEAM APPAREL

INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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PRACTICE SCHEDULE

Beginning June 1

Morning Practice

(Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday)

8:15 - 9:15 AM 13 & Up

9:00 - 9:45 AM 9 - 12 Year Olds

9:45 - 10:15 AM 8 & Under

(Fridays)

8:15 - 9:15 AM All Ages

9:30 - 10:15 AM Ribbon Ceremony

Evening Practice

(Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)

6:00 - 6:45 PM 8 & Under

6:45 - 7:45 PM 9 - 12 Year Olds

7:15 - 8:15 PM 13 & Up

May 26 - 29, 2026

(Tuesday - Friday - Evenings Only)

5:30 - 6:00 PM 8 and Unders

6:00 - 6:45 PM 9 - 12 year olds

6:30 - 7:30 PM 13 and up

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

FOR ALL SWIMMERS

(NEW & RETURNING)

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CHAMPS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

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PRACTICE SCHEDULE

Practice Schedule Modifications:

Friday Morning Practice

Optional

Starting June 5, 2026

8:15 - 9:00 AM All Ages

9:30 - 10:15 AM Fun Friday / Ribbon

Ceremony

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In-Person Registration

April 24, 2026

5:00 - 7:00 PM

OCCC Clubhouse

Parent Information Session

May 21, 2026 6:00 PM

OCCC Clubhouse

  • Look at the team handbook
  • Look at how to read meet results
  • Learn about volunteering at swim meets
  • Learn about certifying for an officials position
  • Learn about SwimTopia for the 2026 season

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READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

The OC Otters will participate in both home and away swim meets.

Directions and meet specifics will be emailed out the week of the meet by the swim team parent representative.

Please remember that for home swim meets, volunteers are needed in

multiple capacities.

Watch for a sign up

genius to sign up

for volunteer

opportunities.

2026 MEET SCHEDULE

Wednesday, June 3, 2026

Goochland YMCA @ OCCC

Wednesday, June 10 ,2026

OCCC @ The Federal Club

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

OCCC @ The Dominion Club

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Pebble Creek @ OCCC

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Wellesley @ OCCC

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

OCCC @ Goochland

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

  • 5:45pm: Timers and Officials Meetings (all timers should attend meeting, whether first or second half workers - more information in “Time to Volunteer” section)
  • 6:00pm: Meet Starts
  • 8U are the first events
  • 9+ relays are the last events
  • All individual events in between
  • 6:00pm: First half volunteers
  • 9:00pm: Estimated Meet End

If volunteering for the second half of the meet, listen for an announcement by meet officials at event 27.

General Home Meet Timeline

  • 4pm: OC Pool Closes for Meet, Meet Setup Begins
  • 4:30pm: Swimmers and Volunteers Check In (home and visiting teams)
  • 4:45-5:10pm: Old Church Swimmers Warm-up
  • 5:10-5:35pm: Visiting Team Warm-up (at away meets, OC will have this second warm-up time slot)

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

    • Coaches make the meet entries for each swimmer and relays based on swimmer ability and team needs (entries are input the Monday prior to the meet)
    • Each swimmer may swim 3 individual events and one relay per meet (based on ability and team needs)
    • Use Swimtopia to notify the swim team that your swimmer will not be at a meet (the sooner the better so coaches have all the information needed to determine the meet lineup ahead of Monday meet prep)

General Meet Information

    • Meets run roughly from 6-9pm, however check in begins at 4:30pm.
    • Meets are held on Wednesday’s, except possibly the first and the last meet.
    • Meets rescheduled due to rain will occur on Thursday. Meets are rarely canceled ahead of time, the goal is to get the meet in on Wednesday, even if it is delayed. Please show up to the meet venue even if the weather is debatable.

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSEE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

9-12 Year Olds Swim

  • 100 IM
  • 50 Backstroke
  • 50 Breaststroke
  • 50 Butterfly
  • 50 IM
  • 200 Free Relay (4 Swimmers)

(each athlete swims 50 yds)

13-18 Year Olds Swim

  • 100 IM
  • 50 Backstroke
  • 100 Breaststroke
  • 50 Butterfly
  • 50 IM
  • 200 Freestyle Relay (4 Swimmers)

(each athlete swims 50 yds)

GRAL Odd Meet Format

Meets 1, 3, 5

(aka “odd” meet)

8 and Unders Swim

  • 100 Freestyle Relay (4 swimmers)

(each athlete swims 25 yds)

  • 50 IM
  • 25 Backstroke
  • 25 Breaststroke
  • 25 Freestyle
  • 25 Butterfly

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSEE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

9-12 Year Olds Swim

  • 100 Freestyle
  • 50 Backstroke
  • 50 Breaststroke
  • 50 Butterfly
  • 50 Freestyle
  • 200 Medley Relay (4 Swimmers)

(each athlete swims a different stroke for 50 yds)

13-18 Year Olds Swim

  • 100 Freestyle
  • 100 Backstroke
  • 50 Breaststroke
  • 100 Butterfly
  • 50 Freestyle
  • 200 Medley Relay (4 Swimmers)

(each athlete swims a different stroke for 50 yds)

GRAL Even Meet Format

Meets 2, 4, 5

(aka “even” meet)

8 and Unders Swim

  • 100 Medley Relay (4 swimmers)

(each athlete swims a different stroke for 25 yds)

  • 100 Freestyle
  • 25 Backstroke
  • 25 Breaststroke
  • 25 Freestyle
  • 25 Butterfly

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSEE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

SLIDESMANIA.COM

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

Meet FYIs

Each week you will receive an email from the Parent Representative with specifics of the meet logistics, timeline, events, and the address to away meets. Timeline is generally about the same for all pools.

Parents and athletes arrive at the designated pool for swimmer and volunteer check-in. A check in table for both is usually set up at or near the pool entrance.

Swimmers will receive a card with their events listed. Swimmers often like to use a sharpie to write events on their hands.

Please know, depending on last minute changes, coaches may need to adjust your child’s events (especially relays).

Ben Backstroke

8U 25 Free

8U 25 Fly

8U 25 Back

Keep Swimming To the Next Page for More Info

CLICK HERE

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READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

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WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

One parent from each family is asked to commit to volunteer for at least one half of EVERY meet. Some volunteer positions require a minimum amount of training or certification (please see “Time To Volunteer” section).

If you only have an 8U swimmer, we recommend you work the first half of the meet so you can leave when your swimmer is done.

Results for each event will be posted on the wall just outside of the game room entrance.

During home meets, Otter families sit on the side of the pool closest to the entrance and by the deep end. It is a good idea to bring additional seating (bag chairs, camp chairs, etc). Visiting team gathers on the shallow end / toddler pool side.

Meets generally run about 3 hours, if there are no weather delays. Families may leave when their swimmer is finished and their volunteer position is complete.

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSEE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

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SWIM MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILS

Concessions will be served as a fundraiser for the Otters at each home meet (away meets have concessions as well). We do ask families to contribute to our Otter Cafe, either through a cash donation of $50 at the beginning of the season (money will be used to purchase food and drink for concessions), or by donating food or drink items (they can be homemade) to sell at each home meet. No donations are needed for away meets.

Concessions can be paid for with cash. Away meets are likely cash only.

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSEE

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INCLEMENT WEATHER

Inclement Weather General Protocol

As you can imagine, the weather can wreak havoc on our summer swim practices and meets.

First and foremost, the safety of our swimmers and their families is always our main concern.

The lifeguards on duty, along with coaches, at any practice or meet are the ones that make the call to clear the pool for thunder or lightning. If thunder or lightning have been reported, all patrons must clear the pool deck for 30 minutes (from the last weather offense).

Practice Specific Weather Protocol

It is rare that practice is canceled ahead of time due to weather, unless an impending storm is imminent. Old Church is in a very unpredictable pocket for weather, and often what is happening in the surrounding areas is not occurring in Old Church. It is always the goal to be able to have practice, even if it is shortened or age groups are combined.

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CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

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MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

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INCLEMENT WEATHER

Swim Meet Inclement Weather Protocol

It is always the goal of the meet officials to complete the meet on the scheduled day, therefore all swimmers should arrive for the meet at the designated time, regardless of weather conditions.

Often times, a delay may mean sitting out a storm in your vehicle and waiting for it to pass so we, or the opposing team, do not have to return the following day to complete the meet.

Please note, Old Church Road can be dangerous when storms hit, as there is the potential for standing water and downed tree limbs. Please use your discretion when making decisions for your swimmers - especially swimmers that will be driving themselves or others.

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SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

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INCLEMENT WEATHER

Warm up and relays can be canceled in order to shorten the meet, however all individual events must be swam for a meet to count.

The meet referee, coaches and parent rep work very hard in challenging weather conditions to make the best decision for all involved.

It is very challenging to rework a meet on a different day due to all people involved, from the coaches, to the swimmers and parent volunteers and the facility requirements. Please understand there are many factors that play into weather decisions and GRAL does have some established rules that must be followed.

If a weather delay occurs, Please wait in your vehicles or in the clubhouse for further instructions. All official communication on decisions will occur through email.

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SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

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INCLEMENT WEATHER

Most of our meets occur on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, but if there is a weather cancellation, Thursday is most likely the makeup date. It is very difficult to make up a meet on the weekends due to the pools being open to the general membership. Thank you for your patience during these challenging delays.

swim meet today

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SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

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SWIM TEAM APPAREL

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

Work shifts are split into two halves.

First half volunteers must be on deck by 5:30pm and work through event 28.

Second half volunteers must be on deck immediately following event 28 through the end of the meet

If you only have and 8U swimmer, it is recommended that you volunteer for the first half so you can leave when your swimmer is done competing.

If your child is entered to swim in a meet, it is required that one parent volunteer their time for one half of every meet. Your child will not be permitted to swim in the meet until a parent/grandparent is signed up to work.

Swim meets are strictly volunteer run. It takes at least 60 volunteers from OC alone to run a home meet.

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SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

WELCOME & CONTACTS

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

Referee

  • works the full meet
  • main responsibility is to ensure that the meet is conducted fairly
  • begins the meet once all requirements are met and teams and volunteers are in place
  • signs off on all disqualifications
  • hears any contests about disqualifications from both coaches,
  • has the ability to overrule judgments
  • must remain on deck through the end of the meet and until the meet is finalized
  • One person required at home meets, none at away meets.

Strokes and Turns

  • works one half of the meet
  • observes each race to determine whether the swimmers have performed the strokes legally
  • this position holds the unfortunate, however necessary, duty of disqualifying swimmers for performing illegal strokes
  • Four people required at each meet, home and away.

Certified Positions

Certified positions require you to take a short online class (a total of just a couple of hours of your time) and pass a test (you can look up the answers) before performing duties. Most of these training positions do require “walking/shadowing” for a couple meets as further training and allows you to ask questions and learn before being an official volunteer. We ask parents who have been on swim team for more than two years to consider fulfilling these roles.

Thank you for your understanding of this participation requirement.

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

Head Table Worker

  • works half the meet to help verify results
  • label and file ribbons for each swim
  • Four volunteers needed for home and away meets.
  • Only Head Table worker needs to be certified.

Starter

  • works half the meet
  • calls each event up to the block and ensures a fair and legal start of each race
  • Two volunteers required for home meets, none for away meets.

Clerk of Course

  • works the full home meet
  • helps to organize all swimmers in their heats and lane for each event to help the meet run smoothly and remain on schedule.
  • Two people needed for home and away meets (away meets can be split into one person per half and you assist the other team as they are the main clerks).

Computer Rep

  • unofficial training required
  • works the whole meet at the computer table
  • sets up the meet, makes last minute entry changes, verifies and records times of each swim at the meet
  • updates the scores and finalizes the meet
  • submits results to GRAL
  • coordinates with the coaches prior to the meet and enters our home team entries into the system
  • informs the coaches of any mistakes as well
  • imports the opposing team’s entries and sets up the meet for home meets (prior to meet day, usually done on Monday evenings)
  • One main volunteer for the season to import entries and set up the meet, one additional volunteer needed for home meets to assist. Main volunteer

also works away meets to assist the home team.

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

Check In Coordinator

  • must arrive at home and away meets prior to the official team check in time in order to sign in athletes as well as volunteers
  • hand out cards to each swimmer with their events (these will be pre-printed already)
  • One volunteer needed for each meet, home and away. This job is complete once all swimmers and volunteers are checked in.

Timers

  • works half the meet
  • presses start and stop on a stopwatch to get the time of each swimmer in each race.
  • 22 volunteers needed for home meets, 16 for away meets.

Runner

  • works half of the meet
  • collects time and disqualification cards at the end of each heat to bring to the computer table for review
  • while it does not require running, it does involve a good amount of walking back and forth from one end of the pool to the other, every event
  • Two volunteers needed for home meets, none for away.

Non-Certified Positions

These positions require no GRAL training or course work.

Meet Director

  • responsible for arranging meet set up for the home club pool deck
  • coordinates all officials to run the meet efficiently
  • oversees that all required equipment and materials are available before the meet, including arrangements for the pool, pool deck, deck officials, starter and announcer, Clerk of Course, computer area, check-in tables and the table workers
  • ensures adequate lighting is a available for all stations and night swimming
  • One volunteer needed for each HOME meet and must arrive at Old Church at 4pm.

Meet Set Up Crew

  • must arrive at the HOME meet at 4pm
  • help set up the pool for the meet (this includes running the speakers and power, setting up flags and ropes around the pool, putting in blocks, setting up clerk of course, and other miscellaneous things that need to be done.
  • Two volunteers needed for home meets, none for away.

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

INCLEMENT WEATHER

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

PLEASE NOTE

Volunteer positions that have volunteers not on the pool deck do allow the volunteer to leave and watch their child swim in an event and then return to volunteering.

It takes 60+ volunteers from our team if no one works both halves of the meet (except the referee).

As a team, we usually have about 55 families total, and that is only if every family attends every meet. So, as you can imagine, it is impossible to run an efficient meet without the help and volunteering from EVERY SINGLE FAMILY. Please know that we understand the challenges of watching younger children or only having one parent be able to attend a meet, however, to be a part of this team, it is a requirement to volunteer at every meet your child swims in.

Table Helpers

  • works half the meet
  • helps verify results
  • helps label and file ribbons for each swim
  • Four volunteers needed for home and away meets.

Concessions

  • works half the meet
  • helps with set or break down of the Otter Cafe
  • ensure distribution flow of food during the course of the meet
  • determine purchase totals & collects money from customers
  • 6 volunteers needed for home meets, none for away.

Clean Up Crew

  • must stay upon the completion of the swim meet to make sure the pool deck is clear of all trash and tables and chairs are replaced in their original spots
  • help break down the pool by replacing ladders, pulling lane lines and dropping the flags, breaking down sound equipment and power as well as putting the pool ropes away (for home meets only)
  • Four volunteers are needed for home meets, two for away meets.

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

INCLEMENT WEATHER

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

Swim Team Volunteer Positions

The Otters have an unofficial board which is composed of volunteers who fulfill one of several roles available. Please let the head coach or Board Liaison know if you have any questions or would like to fulfill one of these roles.

Board Liaison

  • An official Old Church Community Center Board member
  • attends monthly OCCC Board meetings
  • communicates between the swim team coordinator, head coach, and OCCC Board

Swim Team Coordinator

  • Works to coordinate the events of the swim team.
  • Works with coaching staff to make decisions for the team.
  • Liaison between parents and swim team committee.
  • Communicates with families regarding swim team happenings

Computer Representative

  • inputs registration data at the start of the season
  • imports meet entries for each meet and uses the team software to create the meet
  • updates the data of each event throughout the meet
  • submits meet results to GRAL for verification

GRAL Representative

  • Otter representative to GRAL
  • attends virtual monthly meetings
  • maintains communications between GRAL and the swim team
  • delivers team registration and fees to GRAL
  • One volunteer needed for the entire year.

Parent Representative

  • coordinates with the opposing team by sending out the meet invitation to the visiting team as well as forwards the meet invitation to our team when we have an away meet (The meet invitation is a pre-set template that just has the updated information for each meet, including check in times, directions, pool information, etc.).
  • responsible for communication with the coaches and meet referee in deciding weather delays and rescheduling of meets
  • One volunteer needed for the entire summer season.

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

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TIME TO VOLUNTEER

Head of Concessions

  • plans, purchases and sells concessions for the Otter Cafe (huge team fundraiser).
  • One volunteer needed for the entire summer season.

Volunteer Coordinator

  • works each meet to coordinate and fill volunteer positions for every home and away meet through paper sign ups and Sign-Up Genius.
  • One volunteer needed for the entire summer season.

Champs Coordinator

  • helps coordinate all things Champs related
  • required by GRAL to attend a coordinator meeting toward the end of the season, before Champs
  • in charge of designing and ordering t-shirts and caps for Champs qualifiers
  • distributes Champs information to all qualifiers
  • coordinates things with the coaches to help Champs run smoothly
  • One volunteer needed the last 3 weeks of the season and must attend the Champs meet as well.

The swim team board always accepts volunteers and has other roles available as well:

  • ording team t-shirts
  • arranging for trophies/medals/plaques
  • coordinating team banquet

we appreciate our volunteers!

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

CONCESSIONS

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CONCESSIONS

Meet Concessions

Every meet offers concessions to the athletes and families. We have three home meets each season in which the Otter Cafe operates in the clubhouse.

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This is a huge source of income for our swim team, and is only made possible by the donations of swim team families.

For away meets, concession donations are not required.

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INTRO

MEET THE COACH

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

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CONCESSIONS

Concession Donations Options

Each family is asked to pick one of the following donation options for concessions:

Option One: $50 donation

  • a one time donation due by the last day of regular registration (May 31, 2023)
  • goes toward the purchase of chips, drinks, snacks, pizza, and Chick-Fil-a to sell in the Otter Cafe

Option Two: Food Donations

  • required for each home meet
  • may provide store bought or homemade items (pasta salad, cut fruit, baked goods, etc.)

Homemade goods add a personal touch to the food options we offer in the Otter Cafe, and are ALWAYS hot items that sell quickly!

If you have the time and enjoy cooking, please consider this option for concession donations.

A Sign Up Genius will be shared prior to each home meet for families choosing option 2 to sign up for concession donations.

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INTRO

SECTION A

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

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CONCESSIONS

Cookies / Brownies

Pasta Salad (Bowl)

Italian Ice

Drinks

(soda, small Gatorade, water)

Cash Only Accepted

PLEASE HAVE SMALL BILLS TO USE

The Otter Cafe Menu

BBQ

Pizza (By the Slice)

(cheese or pepperoni)

Hamburgers

Hot Dogs

Chips

Candy

Fresh Fruit (Bowl)

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INTRO

SECTION A

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

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CONCESSIONS

Otter Cafe Pre-Orders

Sometimes for each home swim meet, you can pre-order certain main dish food items.

If this is an option, it will be communicated via the Parent Rep email that goes out to the team providing details about the meet.

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  • Cash Payments Due At Pick-Up
  • All pre-ordered food items should be picked up from the Otter Cafe by the end of the first half of the swim meet.

INTRO

SECTION A

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

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LET’S CELEBRATE

Fun Fridays

Every Friday 9:30 - 10:15 AM

Come celebrate with the team as they gather after an optional shortened morning practice. Coaches will highlight notable swims from the week, recognize achievements, and hand out ribbons from the week’s meet.

Your child does not have to attend the morning practice on Friday in order to come to the ceremony. Friday practice and Ribbon Ceremony are completely optional.

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Bigs & Littles

The Old Church Otters swimmers participate in a Big Brother/Sister program each summer. Each 10 and under swimmer is paired with an older swimmer for the season. The goal of this program is to build relationships between the older and younger swimmers on the team, as well as allowing younger kids to have someone to look up to, learn from, and be cheered on at meets. While each year swimmers are assigned new Big & Littles, it is our hope that the relationships will continue through the years on the team.

Ways to Support Your Big/Little

  • Make a sign to give them at each meet
  • Bring them a snack or candy at each meet
  • Bring them a drink at each meet
  • Cheer them on when they swim
  • Interact during practice and swim meets

INTRO

SECTION A

REGISTRATION

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

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LET’S CELEBRATE

Swim Team Banquet

July 16, 2026 6PM

Come celebrate a successful 2026 summer swim season! The pool is open to swimmers as well as the membership at this time, so feel free to bring your swimsuit.

Each family participating is asked to bring a (side dish or dessert to share). The team will provide the main dish and a cake. Coaches will recap the season, share some awards with the swimmers, and hand out team trophies/medals/plaques.

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Team Pictures

June 15, 2026 6PM

Say cheese! Come be a part of the team photo and take advantage of having your swimmer(s) photographed. Packages available. Pricing will be shared prior to the date.

Swim-A-Thon

June 15, 2026 7:00 - 8:00PM

Help raise money for the OC Otters by swimming! Swim team members collect flat pledges or pledges per lap. They then swim, swim, swim to see how much they can raise for the swim team! This is such a fun time for all and a great

way to support the

team!

INTRO

SECTION A

SECTION B

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

LET’S CELEBRATE

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TIME STANDARDS

UNDERSTANDING SWIM MEET TIME STANDARDS

GRAL has an established set time standards which are modified every two years.

Time standards can be found at:

2025-2026 Time Standards

DID YOU KNOW?

  • There are 5 age groups
  • 8 years and Under
  • 9-10 year olds
  • 11-12 year olds
  • 13-14 year olds
  • 15-18 year olds
  • Old Church is a YARD pool
  • There are 5 divisions of time standards for
  • each age group
  • each event, male and female
  • both meters and yards (each pool varies either 25 yards or 25 meters).

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SECTION A

SECTION B

SWIM TEAM APPAREL

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

LET’S CELEBRATE

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

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TIME STANDARDS

  • Divisions are
  • Novice (N)

(anything slower than the Advance Standard)

  • Advance (ADV)
  • Junior Varsity (JV)
  • Varsity (V)
  • Senior Varsity (SV)

It takes a Junior Varsity, Varsity or Senior Varsity time standard to automatically qualify for Champs.

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SECTION A

SECTION B

SECTION C

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

LET’S CELEBRATE

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

TIME STANDARDS

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READING THE RESULTS

GRAL scores 6 places deep in all divisions in all individual events. Due to there being 5 divisions in each age group of each event at meets, it is possible to have -

  • 5 first place finishes

in the same age group (one per division)

  • 5 second place finishes

in the same age group (one per division)

  • 5 thirds place finishes

in the same age group (one per division)

  • 5 fourth place finishes

in the same age group (one per division)

  • 5 fifth place finishes

in the same age group (one per division)

  • 5 sixth place finishes

in the same age group (one per division)

Results will be posted at each meet and final results will be emailed once the meet has been verified by GRAL.

Each swimmer earns points in the division they were listed at when they entered that particular meet. If they swim a faster time and move up a division, you will see that in the results, and the following meet, they will be entered and scored in their new division standard.

Entry times will always be the fastest time the swimmer has had in the past 2 years. If they swim slower one meet, their faster time will still be used as their entry time.

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SECTION A

SECTION B

SECTION C

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

MEET SCHEDULE & DETAILSE

TIME TO VOLUNTEER

INCLEMENT WEATHER

CONCESSIONS

LET’S CELEBRATE

TIME STANDARDS

SPONSORSHIPS

CHAMPS

READING THE RESULTS

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READING THE RESULTS

EVENT #

SWIMMER’S GENDER

AGE GROUP

DISTANCE SWAM

SC = SHORT COURSE

UNIT OF MEASURE

STROKE

TIME STANDARDS BY DIVISION

DIVISION SWIMMER ENTERED IN

FINISHING PLACE AFTER MEET VERIFICATION

SEED TIME

- the entry time (fastest time swam by the swimmer in that

event in last 2 years)

- NT will mean No Time (the athlete has not completed the

swim in that distance, in an individual event legally yet)

TIME THE SWIMMER SWAM THE EVENT & DIVISION THAT TIME ALIGNS WITH

POINTS EARNED TOWARD TEAM TOTAL

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FAST, BRIANNA

DIVER, DEEPSY

WAVE, AQUA

FINS, SILVER

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READING THE RESULTS

In this event, this swimmer swam the fastest time overall. So, when watching the race, she beat all of the other swimmers. However, she is the second swimmer listed because she entered the meet with a Junior Varsity time and the swimmer above her entered with a Varsity time. Each is scored in their respective divisions.

CLARIFYING THE RESULTS

This is an example of how 4 swimmers in the same event all earned first place and therefore each earn 7 points for their team.

For this swimmer, her final time is faster than the first swimmer listed. This swimmer came in second overall, however, due to the fact that she entered the meet in the advanced division, she placed first and earned points for the team in the advance division.

This swimmers final time placed her fourth overall, however, since she was in a different division from all other athletes, she earned a first place finish in her novice division.

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DIVER, DEEPSY

FAST, BRIANNA

WAVE, AQUA

FINS, SILVER

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READING THE RESULTS

The coaches receive DQ cards at the end of the meet. If a swimmer is disqualified, they will not receive a time or placing in the meet. It is the responsibility of the coaches to meet with swimmers (and probably their parents) and explain what the infraction was and how to address it.

Generally, the coaches will not enter a swimmer in an event if they are not legal in the stroke. If the swimmer is close to legal, or is occasionally legal, the coach may enter them to see how they do.

UNDERSTANDING DISQUALIFICATION

Each stroke and each event has set standards as determined by USA Swimming and GRAL of how the stroke must be swam.

The Strokes and Turns Judges are tasked with watching each swim in their zone and looking for infractions. If a judge spots an infraction, they will raise their hand and discuss it with the Meet Referee. If it is decided that the infraction stands, a DQ card will be written out with the swimmer name, event and infraction.

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READING THE RESULTS

Sometimes a swimmer just really wants to swim an event, even if they aren’t legal, and the coach may enter them. Sometimes the coach has more faith in a swimmer's ability than the swimmer has in himself, and the coach may enter him in an event to encourage building confidence, breaking down mental barriers and pushing limits.

This swimmer entered the meet with no time in this event (NT = has not legally completed this stroke in this distance, individually). He did not complete the swim legally in this meet, which means he disqualified his event (DQ). He does not earn a time or a placement in this event and his coach will receive a DQ card explaining his infraction. He and his coach will address the issue.

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QUICK, BARRY

SPEEDER, JOHN

MERMAN, SHAWN

MARINA, FISHER

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READING THE RESULTS

THINGS TO CONSIDER

  • Please have your swimmer find a time to meet with a coach to explain his/her infraction
  • DQ can be a painful and frustrating process, for swimmers and their parents. There are going to be tears, probably on both sides. However, it is a great opportunity to learn and grow and really understand the breakdown of the stroke, and an opportunity to improve.

  • Strokes and Turns Judges do not want to DQ kids, however, it is a necessary evil. If the swimmer performs an infraction once, the judge will likely let it go (they will look away to another swimmer and pretend they didn’t see it). When the judge looks back, if the infraction is repeated, the swimmer will get DQed.
  • All stroke rules apply to all ages. This means an 8 year old is held to the same standard of legality as an 18 year old swimmer.

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CHAMPS

CHAMPS SWIM MEET

July 18-19, 2026

Hosted at SwimRVA in Chesterfield

Champs is a meet at the end of the summer in which swimmers must meet a qualifying standard in at least one individual event to attend (exception is relays).

The time standard is a Junior Varsity (JV) time or faster in the current season.

(see “Time Standards” section)

The meet alternates each year between being swum in yards and meters.

CHAMPS FYIs

  • Swimmers may qualify in any event at any of the six regular season meets.
  • Swimmers may not qualify for an individual event through a relay swim.
  • Teams are allowed to build relays at Champs with non-qualified swimmers, as long as one swimmer on the relay is a qualifier in the stroke they swim on that relay. (EX: If we only have one swimmer qualify in the 50 fly in 11-12 age group, we can still make a 200 Medley relay by bringing 3 non-qualifiers to fill out the rest of the relay, as long as the qualified swimmer is the fly leg of that relay. Therefore, it is possible for a swimmer to swim at Champs without qualifying individually, however they would only be able to compete on the relays they are a part of.)

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CHAMPS

Champs Practice

(qualifying swimmers & relay fillers)

TO BE DETERMINED

Champs t-shirts and caps may be purchased prior to Champs.

  • The 10 years and under swimmers compete on Saturday
  • 11 year olds and up swimmers compete on Sunday
  • There are two sessions each day, and the relays are at the end of each session (Free in the morning session, Medley in the afternoon session).
  • Swimmers can swim up to 4 individual events and 2 relays.

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SPONSORSHIPS

Team Funding

The Otter swim team is a small, self-funded community within Old Church Community Center. The money that we raise through fundraising and sponsorships, along with registration fees, is what keeps our program running. Fundraisers are built into the everyday happenings of the team for the most part, however we do a swim-a-thon annually as well as some other activities occasionally (Papa John’s orders, spirit nights, etc.).

Participation in meet concessions, team pictures, purchasing team swag and team suits are all ways that the Otters incorporate fundraising into our team functions.

Sponsorship

We reach out to local businesses in the community to seek sponsorship donations. If you or your business are interested in supporting the Otters, please let the swim team coordinator know.

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Thank you!

On behalf of all of the OC Otters, we thank you in advance for all you will do to help make this swim season a success!

Go Otters!

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