The Woodlands Marlins Swim Team

Maybe this is your first swim meet. Or perhaps you want a reminder since it's been a long year. We've got you covered! 

Here are a few tips and tricks starting out the summer season: 

• Write your child's first initial, last name and events on their arm. This seems odd at first, but it helps all swimmers, parents and volunteers get the kids to their events. The following goes on your kids' upper arm, just below the shoulder: their first initial, last name, and their event number listed vertically (like a list). The Age Group Parents will add their heat and lane once they are final on the day of the meet (often after warmups). Be sure to use a black sharpie or permanent marker so it doesn't wash off during warmups. But don't worry! Volunteers are ready to do this for you if you haven't done it before! 

• Get your child's swim bag ready. Of course, this includes their goggles, cap and towels. We'd also suggest an extra pair of goggles. If you are swimming at the Natatorium, you might want an extra towel, robe or parka to wear in between races. We'd also suggest this include snacks and a bottle of water, as it's a long day. Kids also bring simple fun things for amusement between races, like games, coloring books, cards, crafts, and much more -- as long as they keep up with these items.   
• Come to warm ups. These are not optional. Plus, they are a good way to get the kids ready mentally and physically for racing! 
• Get your child to the Age Group Parent when you arrive at the meet. These parents will keep each age group together and get them to their events. Unfortunately, parents are not allowed on deck (except if you are volunteering).  
• For outdoor meets. Not every team is as lucky as us -- they have outdoor pools in the Texas heat! For those meets, be sure to pack sunscreen and extra water for your swimmers. We'll have tents set up for them, but many parents bring coolers to bring more foods and drinks to keep the kids cool. 
• Have patience. This is our first summer swim meet after 10 months off. For many of our swimmers, they'll have to get used to swim team competition again. We'll do everything we can to make them comfortable and help them enjoy themselves! And have patience with the volunteers and officials running the meet. We will do the best we can to run a smooth meet, and more importantly, help the kids enjoy themselves! 
• Have fun! This is all about the kids!  We want them to keep learning and growing as swimmers -- and have fun! 

We have a few other tips on our Frequently Asked Questions page as well as good info on Marlin Mania that will also help. 

We look forward to seeing you at the meet. GO MARLINS!