Osprey Aquatics FAQ

Questions About Our Team

If you are new to the team we hope some of the following information will help you acclimate. But please, don't hesitate to talk to one of the other families. We're here to help

Who can join the Osprey Aquatics swim team?

The team is open to all swimmers ages 5 and up who can swim the length of a 25 yard pool unassisted. At times there is a waiting list depending on age and ability of a swimmer so as not to overload a particular practice group.

How do I sign my child up for the swim team?

First step is to follow the Membership Info button on the left of the General Info page.

We'll be away on vacation for part of the season. Can my child still join? Does my child have to swim all year? Can I get a refund of dues?

Swimmers may join the team anytime throughout the season (space available). We do not however prorate or put dues on hold for time away from practice.

When do my monthly dues have to be paid?

Monthly dues are due on the 1st and late on the 20th of the month. Any dues mailed after the 20th should include a $20 late fee.

What equipment do I need?

You will need to provide your own swimsuits, goggles, and cap. Otherwise the team provides all training equipment.

Are records of attendance kept?

Each coach keeps a record of daily attendance. A compilation comes out on a monthly basis, tracking swimmers with 85% or better attendance.

Can my child's practices away from the team count towards the team's attendance?

A swimmer who practices away from our team with another USS team will receive credit for practices attended. If they complete a pre-determined workout without the benefit of a trained coach they will receive one half day for each workout completed. Up to three weeks worth of practice maximum.

Is attendance at Saturday practices required?

No practice is required by the coaches at any time. Swimmers set their goals and are guided by the coach on how to attain them. The coach may encourage the swimmer to attend a certain amount of practice in order to achieve the goals that they have set, but when it comes down to it, it is the swimmers commitment that decides whether Saturday practice (or any practice) is required. Also, some groups have an attendance requirement, if a swimmers wishes to practice at a certain level they must commit to the practice schedule of that group.

Why can't parents be on deck during workouts?

During practice, it is important that both coaches and swimmers be free of outside distractions. Parents on the deck will naturally draw their child's attention during practice, and this distract the swimmer from focusing on the practice. Parent's are free to fview practice from the stands or behind the rail.

Can my child get school credit for swimming on the team?

Some schools allow athletes to use outside activities as “Independent Study” (usually to replace a PE class) This is entirely up to the school. For a swimmer to be in our “Independent Study” program we require at least 4 full practices per week of at least 1.5 hours. Our program has been accepted by the school district based on this requirement. We only accept dedicated swimmers into the Independent Study program and a committment of 4 days per week would be the minimum.

Can my child get an excuse to miss PE at school for swimming on the team?

See above. That would be an issue to take up with your school.

How do I know if practice is canceled?

Practice is rarely canceled. If this does happen there will be an email blast and a note in the file if there is time. If the practice is canceled at the last minute (do to situations beyond our control) there will be a note at the pool.

My child is struggling to keep up, what can I do as a parent?

A swimmer who attends practice less that 4 days per week will probably be in this category. Most swimmers need 3 days per week to stay where they are. Encourage your swimmer to attend practice regularly. They can also do dry land drills, and stretching at home to keep them strong and flexible. More than likely if you notice this it has already been noticed and is being dealt with by the coaching staff. If it seems to be a real problem for your child, feel free to discuss your concerns with your child's coach.

Does the team require us to sign up for Escrip?

Escrip is a fantastic painless fundraiser. It is not required, however, we strongly encourage it.

Can my child attend a practice other that his own, if it is more convenient?

Practices are set up for specific age and ability. When a swimmer is unable to attend his regular practice going to another groups practice is not a substitute. Each practice is specific to the particular group it is written, any other practice is not really set up to handle a swimmer who is more or less capable than the group.

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