CIA typically attends
one USS meet per month, from October through February. Swimmers are
encouraged, but not required to attend these meets. They are generally
two day meets, with three individual events and one relay each day.
Swimmers may swim only one day of the meet if they choose. Usually
the 10 and under age groups swim in the morning, and the 11 and up
age groups Swim in the afternoon. Occasionally, there are events scheduled
for Friday evenings. These events are usually longer in distance
and are for the older Swimmers.
Not all swimmers will receive
an award at a USS meet. There are normally three time categories -
A, B, and C. The top six or eight swimmers from each category will
receive either a medal or a ribbon. Swimmers should not be discouraged
if they do not receive an award. Every swimmer who swims a personal
best time will be recognized by the coaches at the next practice after
the meet.
Also, there tend to be a lot of disqualifications
at USS meets. The stroke judges watch very carefully for two hand
touches and proper kicking in butterfly and breast stroke. They also
watch for false starts, illegal turns, and improper finishes - especially
in back stroke. Swimmers can not turn onto their stomachs at the finish
in back stroke. It is okay to be disqualified. It usually happens
to every swimmer at least once.
Two very important things to
remember for swim meets are:
Be on time for warm-ups. It is critical
to practice starts and turns in a pool you are unfamiliar with.
The starting blocks, flags, and bottom of the pool are never the same
as the pool you always practice in.
Talk to your coach after
every race.
