Hunt Valley Swim & Dive Team

• Purpose: Part of the Hunt Valley Swim Team, designed for young swimmers who can't yet swim a full length of the pool.
• Goal: To have fun while improving swimming skills. Older Lil’ Rays aim to become proficient in at least one stroke to participate in Monday evening swim meets by season's end.
• Team Involvement: Lil’ Rays are part of the swim team and are encouraged to join all team events and activities.
• Advancement:
  • Swimmers may move to regular team practices when ready, at the coaches' discretion.
  • Experienced Lil’ Rays should attend a skill assessment during the second week of afternoon practice if they might be swimming team-ready this summer.
• Assessment Details: Coaches will evaluate Lil’ Rays in the water. Dates for the assessment will be published with the team calendar. 

Class Structure:

• Coach-to-swimmer ratio: typically 1:3, never more than 1:4.
• Practice times are emailed before the start date, and after registration finalization.
• Don't hesitate to contact the team reps at [email protected] if you have other children on the swim team. They'll try to align schedules, though it's not guaranteed, as placement is based on ability.

Program Requirements:

• Family membership at Hunt Valley Pool is required (no August memberships).
• Lil’ Ray must be 3 years old by June 1, 2025 (no exceptions).
• This is a “beginner swim” program, not a “learn to swim” program.
• Children must be comfortable in the water, willing to get their faces wet, and able to follow simple coaching instructions.
• If a child is crying or fearful by the 2nd or 3rd day, they may be asked to wait until next season. Other options will be suggested.
• Parents must stay on deck during practice and are not allowed in the water.

Attire:

• Swimmers should wear a swimsuit and goggles to practice.
• Long hair should be tied up with a swim cap. Stingray caps are required at meets for easy identification.
• Goggles and caps are available for purchase during practices.

Important Notes:  

• Please ensure your child is potty-trained (no swim diapers)
• Parents must stay on deck for safety and to handle potty breaks.
• If the water temperature is below 70F children may only be kept in the water for 10-15 minutes maximum, supplementing the lesson with dryland exercises. 

Communication:

• Main communication is through email and the website.
• Check emails frequently for updates on practice, meets, and events.
• A file box in the pavilion will have folders for each family with meet ribbons and hard copy info.
• Check bulletin boards in the pavilion for current team information and volunteer opportunities.
• Families with only Lil’ Ray swimmers do not have a financial volunteer requirement but are encouraged to support team activities.