Pups Program/Pre-Team
Bow MarS Sharks Pre-Team or “Pups Program,” is for swimmers ages 5 and older as of June 1st.
In this fun and safe setting Pups swimmers will be working towards competing in their first meet during the summer season. Once a swimmer is able to complete a 25 meter swim without stopping or assistance, they will have the option to move to the Sharks Swim Team.
In order to help you assess your child's readiness for the Pups Program, use the following skills as a guideline:
1. Swimmer has had swim lessons prior to Pre-Team.
2. Swimmer can enter and exit the pool on their own.
3. Swimmer can front or back float for 15 seconds.
4. Swimmer can hold on to the side of the pool for 2 minutes.
5. Swimmer can retrieve objects waist deep.
6. Swimmers must swim 5 strokes of freestyle or backstroke without stopping & assistance
7. Swimmer will be safe in the water without an adult within reach.
8. Swimmer can listen and follow coach’s direction without consistent redirection;
9. Swimmer is excited and willing to be a part of the Pups program and will attend practice without incident on the majority of days.
***THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR BASIC SWIMMING LESSONS***
Details:
*Pups swimmers will experience all of the team aspects of being a Shark. They are invited to participate in all of the social activities for the team and are encouraged to attend meets to cheer for the Team.
*Pups swimmers are registered as part of the team through the standard registration process.
*Parents of Pups swimmers will still have a volunteer commitment to the team.
*Parents or caregivers of Pups swimmers must remain at the pool during practice.
*Pups swimmers are not required to purchase a team suit, but can do so if they choose. They are also welcome to show their team support with Sharks Gear.
*Practice times will be during the 6&under practice time; 11-1130am. While practice will be offered 5 days a week, we understand that not every child will practice every day. We would like the swimmers to participate a few days a week at a minimum so that they feel a part of the team and are comfortable with the practices. Pups swimmers will have dedicated coaches/mentors who lead their practices.
We want to ensure your child is safe in the water and Pups is the beginning of a life-long love of swimming and love for the Sharks!
If you have any questions or are wondering whether Pups is right for your child, please contact The Parent Reps.