How to Join the Barracudas Swim Team
- You do not have to be a resident of the Villages of Shady Hollow.
- You do not need to be a fast swimmer or know all four competitive strokes.
- Registration Link
Because every child develops at a different pace, we cannot provide exact “cut” requirements. The first week of practice serves as a trial period. During this time, coaches, parents, and swimmers will determine if the team is the right fit.
If a coach determines that a swimmer is not ready, you will receive a full refund.
Try-Out Information
Try-outs are required only for brand-new swimmers ages 4–6 and will be held on Monday, April 13th at the VOSH pool.
During try-outs, swimmers must be able to:
- Swim independently (without a coach in the water)
- Swim approximately halfway across the pool
Try-outs are held strictly for safety reasons. Brand-new swimmers ages 7–18 do not need to try out to join the team.
Is My Child Ready?
Your child is likely ready for swim team if they can:
- Swim half the length of the pool unassisted (any stroke)
- Swim underwater comfortably (for example, retrieve an item from the bottom)
- Jump into the pool independently
- Follow directions and wait their turn in a large group setting
Your child is likely not ready if they:
- Cannot swim half the length of the pool unassisted
- Need assistance entering the pool
- Are uncomfortable putting their face underwater
- Do not enjoy swimming underwater
- Struggle to participate in a large group environment
Trial Period & Quick Start Recommendations
To help ensure a smooth start:
- Attend the Quick Start Clinic (included with registration). This allows coaches to evaluate swimmers before regular practices begin and helps swimmers decide if they enjoy the team environment.
- Consider waiting to purchase a team suit until after the first week if you are unsure about readiness.
- Let your child know they are officially a Barracuda once coaches confirm after the trial week.
- Communicate with coaches about your child’s personality and progress so we can best support them.
For safety reasons, coaches have final discretion regarding team placement—even if a swimmer meets the guidelines above. Some swimmers may progress quickly and be ready sooner than expected.
Thank you for your understanding and support!
For questions, please email Coach Sarah Lear at [email protected].
