No matter how old we get, it's still hard to be the "new guy." This page (created in part by last-year's new parents) is designed to help make that a little easier!
The first thing you should know as a new parent is ask questions! You are not being a pest! We (the veteran parents) EXPECT that you will have questions. Additionally, any Booster Member will be happy to answer your questions!
Tips for new families:
STAY informed: Visit the website and check your mailboxes & email often!
A weekly email will be sent to all families. Please make sure we have your email address!
Ask questions.
You will need ID cards for you and your swimmers to enter the Natatorium. Show your drivers license at the front desk, and they will provide you with a card. Swimmers will also need IDs to check in to the YMCA and Akron U.
Read your handbook.
Click on all the links in the website...it's a wealth of information!
Here are some questions that first-year parents had last year. Some answers can be found at the FAQ page (just click the question) if not, the answers will be below the question.
What are the divisional, league and zone meets and how do the kids qualify?
Where can I get those bungee straps for my goggles?
They are cool, and they do help! You can get them from Coach Dale.
What should I expect at the first dual meet? What is the process?
Rather than repeating all the information here, I will refer you to your handbook...section "How to survive a a CFYN Swim meet."
How can I tell if my swimmer is in a point-scoring heat or exhibition heat?
In a dual meet, the first heat (or race) in any event is the point-scoring heat. Heats 2, 3, 4 etc. are exhibition (non-point scoring) heats. Exhibition swimmers are swimming to improve their times. The goal is for time/technique improvement whether swimming in a scoring heat or and exhibition heat. In invitational or championship meets, EVERYONE is in a scoring heat.
How do I read the lineups?
This is a great question, but can't really be explained here. Best thing to do is ask your Buddy Family or a veteran standing nearby.
What is a DQ (disqualification)-besides ice cream?
Ah...the dreaded DQ! First of all, it happens to EVERYONE! Most officials don't like to disqualify swimmers, especially when it's a little one.
Basically, if you do something illegal in your stroke, turn or finish, the official will disqualify (DQ) you. There are many different things you can be DQ'd for. Most occur in breast or fly. Common examples in fly or breast include: one-hand touch, scissor or flutter kick, fly arms that aren't moving at the same time. Examples in backstroke include: gliding on your flip turn or not finishing on your back.
What's the difference in ribbons and when should I expect to have them?
Swimmers in scoring heats will receive "place" ribbons (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.) Swimmers in exhibition heats will receive rainbow "participation" ribbons. Look for Personal Best Time ribbons during the second half of the season. Ribbons should be in your mailboxes within a week after the meet.
What's with all the terms: FLY, IM, DQ, Drill, Heat sheet?
Just like #4, I will refer you to the "TERMS" section of your Team Handbook.
How long do Dual Meets last?
It depends on several things...like team size and facilities. Some teams, like Lake West, have a large team and a 4-lane pool. Meets in 4-lane pools will take longer than meets in 6-lane pools. Meets in 6-lane pools usually last about 4 hours. Meets in 4 lane pools can last considerably longer. We will keep the website updated with information.