Glacier Aquatic Club
Your First Swim Meet!
A Step-by-Step Guide for New GAC Families
Everything you need for a fun and successful first meet.
Your First Meet is Here!
Welcome to the exciting world of competitive swimming! Your first swim meet can feel like a whirlwind of new terms, people, and organized chaos. Don't worry, we've all been there! This guide is designed to walk you through it step-by-step, from signing up to the final cheer, so you and your swimmer feel confident and prepared for a fantastic day.
The Goal of Your First Meet
The focus is on learning, trying new things, and having fun. It's not about winning or even getting the perfect time. It's about experiencing a meet, cheering for teammates, and learning the routines. Every swim is a success!
Getting Ready: The Week Before
1. Sign Up for Events
You'll get an email to sign up on our Team Unify website. Coaches will suggest events, but this is a great chance for your swimmer to have a say. Don't miss the deadline!
2. Look for the "Psych Sheet"
A few days before the meet, a "psych sheet" is sent out. It lists all swimmers ranked by time. It's not the final schedule, just a preview of the competition.
The Night Before
- Pack the swim bag. Use the checklist on the next page to make sure you have everything. Label it all!
- Pack the family cooler. Healthy snacks and lots of water are key.
- Get a good night's sleep. A rested swimmer is a happy swimmer.
- Relax! You're ready. The coaches and other parents are there to help.
The Ultimate First Meet Checklist
For the Swimmer's Bag
- Swim Suit (and a spare)
- Team Swim Cap (pack two!)
- Goggles (pack two pairs, pre-fitted)
- Team T-Shirt/Apparel
- Two (or more) Towels
- Refillable Water Bottle
- Warm Layers (parka, sweats)
- Deck Sandals or Flip-Flops
- Healthy Snacks (granola bars, fruit)
- Dry Change of Clothes
For the Parent's Survival Kit
- Sharpie (essential!)
- Cash (for concessions/heat sheets)
- Folding Chairs or stadium seats
- Cooler with food & drinks
- Entertainment (books, games)
- Phone Charger / Power Bank
- Layers (pools can be hot or cold)
- Your own snacks and water!
Meet Day is Here! A Step-by-Step Guide
Arrive and Find the Team
Arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled warm-up time. Find the GAC team area (look for our banner or other families in team gear). This is your home base for the day.
Swimmer Checks In with Coach
The first thing your swimmer should do is find a coach to check in. They'll get instructions for warm-ups.
Use Meet Mobile & Sharpie Up!
Follow the meet live on the Meet Mobile app! This is the best way to see event timelines, heat sheets, and results.
Once you find your swimmer's events, use a Sharpie to write their schedule on their arm or leg like this:
Event, Heat, Lane. Ask another parent for help—they'll be happy to show you!
Race Time Routine
Before Race: Swimmer talks to a coach. During Race: We all cheer like crazy! After Race: Swimmer goes directly back to the coach for feedback.
After Their Last Race
Your swimmer MUST check out with a coach before you leave. This is crucial, especially in case of relays. Once you're cleared, you're free to go!
First Meet FAQ: You Are Not Alone in Asking!
For the Parent
Why is my 7-year-old swimming next to a 12-year-old?
Swimmers are "seeded" into heats based on their best times, not age, to ensure fair competition. Final results are always broken down by age group.
What does "NT" mean?
"No Time." This means it's the swimmer's first time officially competing in that event. You'll see it a lot at your first meet!
What does a timer actually do? Is it hard?
Timing is the easiest and most important volunteer job! You just start and stop a stopwatch. It's the best seat in the house and a great way to meet people.
For the Swimmer
What is a DQ?
A Disqualification happens if a stroke is performed illegally. Don't worry! Every single swimmer gets DQ'd. It's a learning opportunity.
What if my goggles fall off?
Just keep swimming! It's better to finish the race without them than to stop. Trying to fix them mid-race often leads to a stroke infraction and a DQ, so it's best to leave them alone and finish strong. Make sure they're tight before you get on the blocks!
I'm really nervous. What can I do?
Feeling nervous is normal—it means you care! Take a few deep breaths, talk to a coach or a teammate, and remember to have fun. We are all cheering for you!
Important Club Info
Volunteering: The Heart of Our Club
Swim meets are run by volunteers. When GAC hosts a meet, we need every family to help. It's the best way to meet other families and learn the sport. Job sign-ups for each event are posted 2-3 weeks before the meet on the team calendar.
USA Swimming Safe Sport
We are committed to a safe environment. Key meet policies:
- No photos or videos behind the starting blocks.
- Deck changing is prohibited. Use locker rooms.
- No cell phones in locker rooms or bathrooms.
Our Mission
To develop and promote competitive swimming for all ages and abilities, encouraging a lifestyle of health and fitness by developing athletes with high self-esteem, respect, and sportsmanship.