Please reach us at whalerspresident@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
"S” status refers to swimmers who only participate in summer swimming and who train no more than 2 hours per week from October to April. “O” status denotes swimmers who train or compete year-round, exceeding 2 hours of training per week from October to April. See BCSSA Information page for more.
As a not-for-profit club we run entirely on volunteers. With our volunteers, we can organize team-building activities, host efficient swim meets, and secure fundraising initiatives.
We’re excited to share that there will be plenty of chances to volunteer this season! Many opportunities will be posted on the message board at the pool, on the WhatsApp group or via email when they are available. We will also be sending out notifications about non-home Swim Meet opportunities via email about a week in advance.
We advise you to be prepared for all types of weather. Most families will bring a pop-up shelter, camping chairs and a cooler, as swim meet usually last all day. Make sure to bring lots of water, juice and healthy foods. Some suggested foods are fruit, veggies, light snacks. Swimmers should bring warm clothes, extra towels, blankets or sleeping bags, goggles, team cap, suit, and clothing.
Divisions are allocated based on the birth year of the athlete, to learn more visit the BCSSA Information page on the Abbotsford Whalers website, or see https://www.bcsummerswimming.com/_files/ugd/58773e_c45c0101652f4d1bb93e5ae8126ca914.pdf
Athletes are placed in groups based on their skill level and age range. Group placement is at the discretion of the Head Coach. Coaches have the ability to determine the best placement of an individual swimmer and may use their discretion to move a swimmer between pods.
New Families and families with children in Division 1 or below are required 10 volunteer hours. All other families require 25 hours. We log volunteer hours through a Google form that will be sent out through email.
No! Participants have the option to register for the program and may choose to only attend practices if they want. This allows individuals to focus on skill development and preparation without the pressure of competitive events, ensuring a supportive and enriching experience.
You're not required to attend every practice, but keep in mind that the more you attend, the more you'll improve! We’d love to see you there!
Wearing a cap and goggles is a fantastic idea. They enhance your swimming experience by allowing you to see clearly and keeping your hair out of your face. Additionally, having both a practice suit and a racing suit is important. Practice suits tend to become loose and baggy over the course of a swimming season, so it’s advisable to save your racing suit for competitions only.
Along with a cap and goggles please bring a water bottle to practice. For our Senior athletes we highly recommend athletes bring their own flippers, paddles and pull-buoys. Don't forget to write you name on your gear!