Find out what every swimmer and parent needs to know
about competitive swimming.
- How long does a swim meet last?
It's usual for meets involving clubs to last one or two days. Be
prepared for long days: take plenty of food and drink, and things
to keep younger children occupied. Treat it as a family day
out.
Competition pools may be 25 metres long, known as short course
(SC) or 50 metres long, known as long course (LC). The
international standard is 50 metres.
- What events will my child compete in?
The coach may enter your child into several events, depending on
his/her abilities in the four strokes and his/her age. Usually,
competitions take place for the following age groups: 10 and under,
11-12, 13-14, 15-16, 17-18.
To ensure the competition is fair and rules are enforced, there
are many officials based on poolside during a swim meet. Each has a
specific role, for example, marshall, starter, judge. Parents are
encouraged to volunteer to help with these roles, and can receive
appropriate training.