Welcome to the
The YMCA of El Paso strengthens the foundations of our community through well-being and fitness, camps, family time, swim, sports and play, and other activities for people of all ages, incomes and abilities. We’re more than just a place to work out. At the Y, we help build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all with the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility at the heart of everything we do.
With a commitment to nurturing youth development, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility, the Y ensures that every individual has access to the essentials needed to learn, grow and thrive.
It was a great year for all of the boys and girls who participated in the YMCA’s competitive swim team program this past summer. And next year’s program should be even bigger and better! Below you will find information from our 2012 season. Some of the information will change for 2013, but readers can get a good idea what YMCA Swim Team is all about!
Loya Swim Team Manual (PDF)
Bowling Swim Team Manual (PDF)
Westside Swim Team Manual (PDF)
What is the YMCA Competitive Swim program and why would I want my child to participate?
It's fun. It's great exercise. It builds confidence. It's a great way for your child to meet other kids in the neighborhood. It's a great way for you to meet other parents. It’s a great way for your child to learn the values of Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility and Faith.
When does the season start and when are the meets?
The season starts between mid-May and early June. The schedule of meets is as follows:
16 June Westside at Loya
23 June Loya at Bowling
30 June Bowling at Westside
7 July Bowling at Loya
14 July Loya at Westside
21 July Westside at Bowling
28 July Championship Meet at TBD site
What swimming strokes does my child need to know to join the team?
If your child is 5 to 18 and can swim a lap of the pool, then they should come to a swim team practice and have the coach evaluate them for the team. Younger children do not necessarily have to be proficient in the breast stroke or butterfly in order to participate.
I see that there are different age groups for the swimmers. How does that work?
The age groups are 8 & under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-18. Every other year your child will have an "up" year when they are the oldest in their age group and a "down" year when they are the youngest in their age group. The system generally works well.
How often and when is practice?
Practices are held Monday through Thursday.
Should I stay and watch a swim practice?
You're welcome to watch. Please refrain from talking with the coach during practice. Practice is when the coach spends time with the swimmers. Please hold you questions for the coach until before or after practice.
When are the meets?
Meets are Saturday afternoon. Swimmers need to check in with the Clerk of Course before 12:45pm, and the meet will start at 1pm
How long does a meet last?
Meets are usually 2.5 to 3 hours long.
What options are available if my child wants to continue swimming in the winter?
There are competitive swim lessons available before and after the season, and available year-round at the Bowling and Westside Family YMCAs.
I have more questions. Where can I go for more answers?
Click on the link above for your YMCA’s Swim Team Manual. There you will find answers to most of your questions.
