Frequently Asked Questions
Where will heat sheets be posted? Heat sheets (lists of swimmers for each event) will be online, if possible, and available for $1 in hard-copy at the meet. Heat sheets will also be posted on the fence between the baby pool and the Gators bullpen.
When will heat sheets be posted? Each heat sheet will be available online and posted on the fence as soon as possible prior to each meet. Timing of the release of the each heat sheet depends on the availability of information from both teams which are competing.
How does the heat sheet work? Each event is numbered 1-80. Swimmers are listed by last name under the event in which they are participating. The event will have a lane number and, if necessary, a lane number followed by a heat number. The coaches teach the swimmers how to read a heat sheet, but it’s not easy the first time. Do not hesitate to ask for help from coaches or other parents!
How long will a meet last, as a general rule? Most evening meets run from 6:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m.
How long are the invitational meets/Championships? They all vary in length, but typically last all day (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
What should a swimmer bring to a meet? Suits, Gators caps and spirit wear. Label all items. Other helpful items include sweats or warm jackets and pants, socks, blankets, extra swim caps, goggles, and a large dry towel for each event. Bring water and food or money to purchase them and a quiet activity for between events. Don't forget the SUNSCREEN! See the Team Handbook for a complete list of suggested items.
Does my swimmer have to swim in meets? We do not force a swimmer to participate in a meet and do not have a rule that requires them to do so. We prefer to have our entire team participate in swim meets. If your swimmer is hesitant about competing, have him or her talk to a coach. Part of the coach’s job is to help the swimmers feel comfortable and confident as members of our team.
Should I plan on bringing food to meets? Yes. Concession stands are available and are fundraisers for the home teams, so please support them as well.
Will a child always swim his/her best strokes? Children will not always swim his/her best strokes because coaches need to be sure children achieve swim times in all strokes during the season. The events a child swims is left to the discretion of the coaching staff.
Are goggles necessary? They are extremely helpful and ease the strain on the eyes when swimming laps during workouts. They can interfere with a swimmer's performance if they come off or leak. Be sure they are the correct fit, adjusted properly and in good shape.
Are parents of swimmers required to work at meets? Yes. Each family is asked to work a certain number of shifts in order to fulfill their work requirement. The particular number will be determined each season, based on the number of families participating. If the requirement is fulfilled at the end of the season, your work deposit will be returned.
How do I change/switch my scheduled volunteer shifts? You may modify volunteer shifts online until 24 hours prior to the event. After that time, if you cannot fulfill a scheduled work shift, the best thing to do is to find another parent to replace you. You can then fulfill one of their shifts for them in return. If you are unable to find a replacement, contact the Board at germantowngators.web@gmail.com as soon as possible.
How do I get credit for fulfilling my work shifts? Be sure to check in with the Volunteer Coordinator at the beginning of each shift so he/she can mark you off the list. This is the ONLY way to ensure you receive credit for working a shift!
Are families with only one swimmer required to fulfill the same number of volunteer commitments as families with multiple swimmers? Yes. We make an effort to distribute the responsibilities equally among all families. We’re all in this together; we all have the same number of hours in our day even though our individual circumstances vary, whether we work full-time, are single parent families, or have multiple swimmers. Please do your part with the right heart and make our team spirit the best it can be. You’ll have fun, we promise!
When can I talk to the coach? The coaches are focused on your children and their safety in the water during practices and meets, so please refrain from speaking with them during that time. The coaches want to talk with parents about the progress the swimmers are making and are available outside of practice and meets, and their contact information is found on the website. If your questions are more related to swim team obligations and/or procedures rather than your child’s swimming, please direct your questions to a Gators Board member.
Why should I come to Time Trials? Time Trial is an important part of the season. In addition to learning about volunteer roles, the coaches will use times logged at Time Trials to determine the line up for the first meet.
