Parent Information-Swim Team at a Glance
Welcome Piranhas Families!
We are so glad you decided to join our team!
Being new on a swim team can feel overwhelming sometimes -- there are a lot of moving parts and it will be like no other sport you've participated in. Don't worry, we've got you! We'll help you get settled in.
Our team typically has over 100 swimmers, 4-5 dedicated swim coaches, and everything is run entirely by volunteers. It takes every parent to help practices and meets run smoothly and to keep all of our kids having fun in the water! Part of a successful swim season requires a commitment not only from your children, but from you as well. Our goal is for our children to love the sport of swimming!
Your first week of swim practices and the swim meets can be confusing because you don't know what to expect. Please don't be shy -- ask your fellow parents about whatever might seem confusing to you. There is always a veteran swim parent that can help you! Please feel free to email us anytime at: [email protected]
Below you will find some tips that we hope will answer any questions you may have.
The team website has a lot of information! Some things to look for:
- Practice Schedule Tab: You will find detailed information about the practice schedule here.
- Meets and Events Tab: You will find the calendar for the entire swim season. Please subscribe to our Piranhas Google Calendar.
You will also find:
- What to Expect at a Swim Meet: how long they last, what to bring, etc.
- Attendance: You will be able to declare your attendance for EACH SWIM MEET. You MUST declare whether or not your child will be in attendance for each meet.
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Heat Sheets: Heat Sheets are a document that lists out the order of events at a meet, and includes the heat and lane assignments for each swimmer.
- Heat Sheets will be posted on the website for each meet and sent out in the Announcements Chat of our WhatsApp Community.
- Please PRINT AND HIGHLIGHT your child's name for EACH EVENT so that you know when they are swimming.
- Various team outings
- Piranhas End of Season Banquet and Awards will take place after the City Championship Meet in July. Date TBA.
PRACTICE TIPS:
- We recommend labeling EVERYTHING with a permanent marker.
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Swimmers should wear a one-piece swim suit, goggles, and a swim cap.
- The team suit will last longer if it's only worn at meets.
- Please do not let your swimmer(s) wear bikinis or rash guards (These are never used for competitive swimming).
- For religious exemptions, please speak with your coach.
- Bring a water bottle and a towel.
- All practices and most swim meets will occur outdoors. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before entering the water.
- Parents can sit on the chairs throughout Piedmont Hills Club or you can bring your own.
- Parent/Legal guardian must stay for the entire duration of practice for swimmers ages 10 and younger. This is for the safety of everyone.
- Coaches are exclusively focused on the swimmers during designated practice times and meets. If parents have questions or want to speak to their child's coach, please schedule a time to meet with them before or after practice.
MEET INFORMATION:
- Meets are 1-2x per week in June and July, typically on Mondays and Thursdays.
- Meets typically start around 3/4pm and end around 7PM.
- Please expect to arrive to the meet at least 30 minutes prior to the start time for warmup.
- The specific time your family will need to arrive for the meet will always be emailed and posted 1 day prior to the meet.
- All families are highly encouraged to volunteer for at least one swim meet during the season. Volunteering makes the day go by faster!
- The volunteer shifts and needs will be posted on the website as we get closer to our swim meets.
- Most swimmers will swim 2 individual events and possibly 1-2 relays depending on the needs of the team. All swimming-related decisions will be made at the discretion of the coaching staff.
- The 2026 City Championship Meet is the last swim meet of the season, and will be held on July 18-19 at the Westside Natatorium. In order to compete in this meet, your child must be able to swim 25 yards unassisted. Coaches are not allowed to swim with your child for this meet. More information to follow as the date approaches.
