Hello Team,
We did it! 2009 Champions! Congratulations to everyone on the team - swimmers, parents and families. We had a lot of tight races and our swimmers won a good number races they weren't expecting to win. Several of our races came down to photo finishes and some involved challenges between coaches and the meet referee. Some went our way, others did not. But we still came out on top by a big enough margin that it is clear we are the Champions outright. Of particular note, Benjamin Hart and Hannah Steele both broke records in 6 and under freestyle and backstroke events, and Benjamin and Hannah along with Jase Williams and Elena Pierson broke the 6 and under freestyle relay record.
The final score was: Giles 2187, Tazewell 1860.5, Concord 1257.5 and Welch 548.
The swimmers did the work in the water, but there was also a huge amount of work on the deck that made the meet flow smoothly. Thanks to the planning and excellent operaton of the meet by the swim team officers and parent volunteers, this was the quickest and most efficiently run Association Meet in recent memory. Thanks to everyone for all this great work.
NEXT UP: The swim team Picnic at the Town Pool on August 17th. Dinner, awards and a pool party!
Way to Go Jets! It really IS our POOL, our MEET and OUR TROPHY!!!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The 2009 Association Meet is HERE!!!
Saturday July 25th is our Association Meet which we will host in the Pearisburg Town Pool. This will be an excellent meet this year. The Concord C-lions are strong again, Welch has regathered its team, and Tazewell is strong as ever. The races will be close and the meet will be very exciting.
Please plan to arrive at the pool by 8:30 at the latest to get set up. Because of meet officials's parking and special needs parkers, do not plan on parking in the pool parking lot. There is PLENTY of parking over at the KJ Community Center. Teams can set up wherever they like, but we will be in the tennis court area nearl the clerk of course. Our warm ups are at 9:10-9:19 and the meet starts at 10:00. I have a coaches meeting at 8:30, so I won't be available for you until right before warm ups. I will arrive at the Town pool around 8 am so you can catch me before 8:30 if you like. I will be by the pool most of the day, so you can find me there anytime you need me. I will try to make rounds through the set up area when I can just to make sure everybody is okay.
It is very important that we stay together as a team on Saturday. We have to help each other listen for when our events are called, and help find swimmers when they are late getting to the clerk. Of course you can move around and spend time by the pool cheering. Just be sure to circulate through the main Giles area now and then to make sure you know what is going on.
If you have a tent or a larger stand-up sun-shade that you are willing to bring share, that would be fantastic. The forecast is for good weather and a mix of clouds and sun. So having shelter is a good thing. You may want to bring a water proof ground cover to sit on or put your tent on. This will help. Remember to bring lots of dry towels, sweatshirts, pants, etc. And several pairs too so when one gets wet you can swap out. Remember this thing goes all day, so you will need to prepare for the long haul. If there is a storm (only 10-20% chance), there will be a delay - there can be no make up meet, so the meet will keep going as best it can!
After the meet, there will be an awards ceremony where they announce the winner and award trophies There are some special awards for retiring swimmers and high point scorers. I will collect all the medals and ribbons and we will give them out at the swim team party on Aug 17th.
Come ready to swim - its our pool - its our meet - its our trophy. Let's win this thing!
Go JETS!
Please plan to arrive at the pool by 8:30 at the latest to get set up. Because of meet officials's parking and special needs parkers, do not plan on parking in the pool parking lot. There is PLENTY of parking over at the KJ Community Center. Teams can set up wherever they like, but we will be in the tennis court area nearl the clerk of course. Our warm ups are at 9:10-9:19 and the meet starts at 10:00. I have a coaches meeting at 8:30, so I won't be available for you until right before warm ups. I will arrive at the Town pool around 8 am so you can catch me before 8:30 if you like. I will be by the pool most of the day, so you can find me there anytime you need me. I will try to make rounds through the set up area when I can just to make sure everybody is okay.
It is very important that we stay together as a team on Saturday. We have to help each other listen for when our events are called, and help find swimmers when they are late getting to the clerk. Of course you can move around and spend time by the pool cheering. Just be sure to circulate through the main Giles area now and then to make sure you know what is going on.
If you have a tent or a larger stand-up sun-shade that you are willing to bring share, that would be fantastic. The forecast is for good weather and a mix of clouds and sun. So having shelter is a good thing. You may want to bring a water proof ground cover to sit on or put your tent on. This will help. Remember to bring lots of dry towels, sweatshirts, pants, etc. And several pairs too so when one gets wet you can swap out. Remember this thing goes all day, so you will need to prepare for the long haul. If there is a storm (only 10-20% chance), there will be a delay - there can be no make up meet, so the meet will keep going as best it can!
After the meet, there will be an awards ceremony where they announce the winner and award trophies There are some special awards for retiring swimmers and high point scorers. I will collect all the medals and ribbons and we will give them out at the swim team party on Aug 17th.
Come ready to swim - its our pool - its our meet - its our trophy. Let's win this thing!
Go JETS!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Tazewell at Giles - July 9, 2009
On Thursday we host the Tazewell Torpedoes at the Town Pool. We beat Tazewell in their pool earlier this season. Now we need to beat them in our pool! I hope everyone will come excited and ready to swim. Let's cheer for our team and make every race count.
Please arrive at the pool no later than 4:30 pm to get set up and get your events. We will warm up at 5 pm, and the meet will start at 5:30. We are planning on taking another team photo after our warm ups for the Association Meet program. Everyone needs to wear their Jets swim suit and / or anything purple.
Attached are the entries for the meet. Notice there have been some changes in who's swimming, so a few relay teams have changed. Please plan on cheering for your team mates when they swim. I want us to be VERY LOUD.
It will be cool when it gets dark, so bring lots of warm towels and clothes. This meet will be a little longer than most since it is a C meet, so have the kids bring some things to keep them entertained. Remember, no soda and no sugary snacks tomorrow. Fruit and pasta and clear liquids are best. We need every swimmer in top form, and pop and sugar will slow us down.
We need LOTS of parent help setting up and taking down the equipment for the meet. Please plan on helping to make this fast and efficient for all.
Thanks and LET'S GO JETS!!!
Please arrive at the pool no later than 4:30 pm to get set up and get your events. We will warm up at 5 pm, and the meet will start at 5:30. We are planning on taking another team photo after our warm ups for the Association Meet program. Everyone needs to wear their Jets swim suit and / or anything purple.
Attached are the entries for the meet. Notice there have been some changes in who's swimming, so a few relay teams have changed. Please plan on cheering for your team mates when they swim. I want us to be VERY LOUD.
It will be cool when it gets dark, so bring lots of warm towels and clothes. This meet will be a little longer than most since it is a C meet, so have the kids bring some things to keep them entertained. Remember, no soda and no sugary snacks tomorrow. Fruit and pasta and clear liquids are best. We need every swimmer in top form, and pop and sugar will slow us down.
We need LOTS of parent help setting up and taking down the equipment for the meet. Please plan on helping to make this fast and efficient for all.
Thanks and LET'S GO JETS!!!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Victory at Concord!
The Giles Jets did it again - Winning at Concord 398 (Giles) to 204 (Concord). We are one step closer to our goal of an undefeated regular season. Our swimmers put in excellent efforts against some very fine swimmers. We always enjoy swimming Concord - one of the best coached teams in the Association. Congratulations to the team and all the parents for their support and help. Special thanks goes out to the swim team officers for their usual huge amount of work. And a special thanks to Coach Scott Widrig, who lead the team in victory. Thanks to all.
Next up: Tazewell comes to Pearisburg on July 9th. The Jets beat Tazewell in their own pool a week ago, so the Torpedoes will come to Pearisburg looking for a little payback. We have won both home meets against Tazewell over the last two years, and we are looking to keep that tradition alive!
Next up: Tazewell comes to Pearisburg on July 9th. The Jets beat Tazewell in their own pool a week ago, so the Torpedoes will come to Pearisburg looking for a little payback. We have won both home meets against Tazewell over the last two years, and we are looking to keep that tradition alive!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Giles @ Concord - June 30th
The Giles Jets are traveling to Concord College in Athens, WV, for a meet against the Concord C-Lions. Meets against Concord are always fun, because our swimmers are so well matched in nearly every event. Plus, many of our swimmers participate in the winter swim program at Concord and are coached by John Lamb, the Concord Head Coach, making this a truly unique experience. But we have numbers on our side, giving us an important edge. Its going to be a great meet. Let's Go Jets!
Directions to Concord University in Athens, WV
Travel 460 W to Princeton, WV.
Turn right onto I-77 N and travel to the Athens, WV exit…its just a few miles on I-77
Turn right onto Rt. 20 and follow road to stop sign.
At stop sign, turn left and travel towards Athens.
At stop light, turn right toward Concord University
Turn left onto the Concord University campus and follow the road to the Pool / Athletic Center
Park at Football Field and the Pool is across the road.
Total Travel Time: about 1 hour from the Pearisburg Town Pool
Directions to Concord University in Athens, WV
Travel 460 W to Princeton, WV.
Turn right onto I-77 N and travel to the Athens, WV exit…its just a few miles on I-77
Turn right onto Rt. 20 and follow road to stop sign.
At stop sign, turn left and travel towards Athens.
At stop light, turn right toward Concord University
Turn left onto the Concord University campus and follow the road to the Pool / Athletic Center
Park at Football Field and the Pool is across the road.
Total Travel Time: about 1 hour from the Pearisburg Town Pool
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Practice Schedule for June 24 to July 3
The CORRECT practice schedule for the next couple of days is:
Wednesday, June 24: CASTLE ROCK POOL 7-9 pm
Thursday, June 25: TOWN POOL 7-9 pm
Friday June 26: CASTLE ROCK POOL 6-8 pm
Monday June 29: CASTLE ROCK POOL 7-9 pm
Tuesday June 30: MEET AT CONCORD (arrive 4:45 pm)
Wednesday July 1: CASTLE ROCK POOL 7-9 pm (to be confirmed)
Thurs July 2: TOWN POOL 7-9 pm
Friday July 3: NO PRACTICE for the holiday
From Monday July 6 through the end of the season we will be at TOWN POOL nearly all the time. We may have one or two Castle Rock days, but that will be announced.
Wednesday, June 24: CASTLE ROCK POOL 7-9 pm
Thursday, June 25: TOWN POOL 7-9 pm
Friday June 26: CASTLE ROCK POOL 6-8 pm
Monday June 29: CASTLE ROCK POOL 7-9 pm
Tuesday June 30: MEET AT CONCORD (arrive 4:45 pm)
Wednesday July 1: CASTLE ROCK POOL 7-9 pm (to be confirmed)
Thurs July 2: TOWN POOL 7-9 pm
Friday July 3: NO PRACTICE for the holiday
From Monday July 6 through the end of the season we will be at TOWN POOL nearly all the time. We may have one or two Castle Rock days, but that will be announced.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Victory at Tazewell !!!
GILES JETS - WE DID IT!!
The Final was Giles - 370 Tazewell - 276.
Congratulations to all the great swimmers and parents for making this a reality. Most long time swim team folks have a hard time remembering the last time we beat Tazewell in their own pool. Well, this will be very easy to remember!
Let's Go Jets!
The Final was Giles - 370 Tazewell - 276.
Congratulations to all the great swimmers and parents for making this a reality. Most long time swim team folks have a hard time remembering the last time we beat Tazewell in their own pool. Well, this will be very easy to remember!
Let's Go Jets!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Season Opener: Giles at Tazewell - June 23rd
Tuesday June 23rd we travel to Tazewell for our season opening meet. We are asking swimmers to report at 4:45. Our warm up time is 5:15 to 5:30. The meet starts at 5:30. For the last two years, we almost beat Tazewell in their pool, then we beat them both years when they came to Giles. So look for a very competitive meet this year.
Directions to Tazewell Pool from Pearisburg Town Pool (about 1 hr 30 min)
Take 460 West from Pearisburg to Tazewell.
As you approach Tazewell watch for the Ramey Chevrolet Car Dealership on the left. This is located just before the FIRST Tazewell exit, which is Rt 460 Business.
Take the first Tazewell exit (exit 5), Rt 460 Business, which will take you into Tazewell.
At the first traffic light, which is about 1.5 miles from 460, turn right onto Route 61 WEST.
Cross the double train tracks and turn left at the red light (this is still Rt 61 W).
Go about 0.3 mile and you will see Lincolnshire Park and Pool on the right.
Directions to Tazewell Pool from Pearisburg Town Pool (about 1 hr 30 min)
Take 460 West from Pearisburg to Tazewell.
As you approach Tazewell watch for the Ramey Chevrolet Car Dealership on the left. This is located just before the FIRST Tazewell exit, which is Rt 460 Business.
Take the first Tazewell exit (exit 5), Rt 460 Business, which will take you into Tazewell.
At the first traffic light, which is about 1.5 miles from 460, turn right onto Route 61 WEST.
Cross the double train tracks and turn left at the red light (this is still Rt 61 W).
Go about 0.3 mile and you will see Lincolnshire Park and Pool on the right.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Mock Meet 2009
The Mock Meet is TONIGHT at the Pearisburg TOWN POOL. Arrive at 6:45 so we can start setting up at 7 pm. Everyone will receive instructions about what to do and how to do it. We need help setting up, and if everyone pitches in it will go fast.
There is a full description of the Mock Meet below.
We will NOT be taking the team photo tonight. The photographer had to go somewhere else on assignment. We will reschedule probably for the first home meet.
Attached are the event ENTRIES by name and the Meet Program (Heat Sheets). Everyone is doing one individual swim and just about everyone is in a relay race. If your swimmer is not in a relay right now, it is likely that there will be someone out and they can fill in. I will let you know.
As always, the entries will be posted on a bulletin board at the meet. Sharpies will be provided for the kids if they like to write their events on themselves.
Please be ON TIME. We need to start right at 7 pm, so arrive early. We should be done in a couple hours.
Thanks and Let's Go Jets!
There is a full description of the Mock Meet below.
We will NOT be taking the team photo tonight. The photographer had to go somewhere else on assignment. We will reschedule probably for the first home meet.
Attached are the event ENTRIES by name and the Meet Program (Heat Sheets). Everyone is doing one individual swim and just about everyone is in a relay race. If your swimmer is not in a relay right now, it is likely that there will be someone out and they can fill in. I will let you know.
As always, the entries will be posted on a bulletin board at the meet. Sharpies will be provided for the kids if they like to write their events on themselves.
Please be ON TIME. We need to start right at 7 pm, so arrive early. We should be done in a couple hours.
Thanks and Let's Go Jets!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Donut orders DUE - WEDNESDAY JUNE 17th
Thanks for your help with the donut fundraiser.
The donut forms and money MUST be turned in tonight (WEDNESDAY JUNE 17). If we have to cancel practice due to rain Michelle will be at the Pearisburg Pool Parking lot to take up orders. It is VITAL to get them turned in so that we can turn in an accurate count. If the forms are turned in late it will mess up our totals so please do this tonight.
Thanks again.
The donut forms and money MUST be turned in tonight (WEDNESDAY JUNE 17). If we have to cancel practice due to rain Michelle will be at the Pearisburg Pool Parking lot to take up orders. It is VITAL to get them turned in so that we can turn in an accurate count. If the forms are turned in late it will mess up our totals so please do this tonight.
Thanks again.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Practice Schedule Next Two Weeks
Here is the practice schedule and locations for swim team this week:
June 15 - Monday, Pearisburg Town Pool. 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 16 and 17 - Tues and Wednesday, Castle Rock Pool 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 18 - Thursday Mock Meet - ARRIVE AT 6:45, meet set up begins at 7 pm. TEAM PICTURES. See description of Mock Meet Below
June 19 - Friday, Castle Rock Pool: NOTE TIME 6-7 pm 9 yrs and under, 7-8 pm for 10 and up.
June 22 - Monday, Pearisburg Town Pool. 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 23 - Tuesday, AWAY MEET @ TAZEWELL: Arrive by 4:45 pm. More details soon.
June 24 - Wednesday, Tentative - Castle Rock Pool 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 25 - Thursday, HOME MEET against Welch: Arrive by 4:45 pm. More details soon.
June 26 - Friday, Tentative - Castle Rock Pool: NOTE TIME 6-7 pm 9 yrs and under, 7-8 pm for 10 and up.
Castle Rock Pool: In Pembroke, Turn between the Subway / Amish Furniture store and take Castle Rock Rd all the way to the Castle Rock Recreation Area. You will pass the baseball field / Treasure Island area on the right as the road turns sharply left. Continue up the hill and down and up again and you will come to the entrance. Drive into the area and follow the road as it curves to left. The pool is to the right - There is plenty of parking.
PLEASE COME AND PRACTICE WITH US...These pool parties at Castle Rock are VERY expensive and we need to get some bang for our buck.
Remember - Swim meet at Concord on June 30th. Arrive at 4:45. More details soon. NO MEET July 2 or July 7 due to the 4th of July. Practice schedule for this time will be announced soon.
LAST THING: Please be sure to fill out your permission form and meet attendance sheet ASAP. This will help me build the team roster and plan the meets.
Thanks to all
June 15 - Monday, Pearisburg Town Pool. 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 16 and 17 - Tues and Wednesday, Castle Rock Pool 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 18 - Thursday Mock Meet - ARRIVE AT 6:45, meet set up begins at 7 pm. TEAM PICTURES. See description of Mock Meet Below
June 19 - Friday, Castle Rock Pool: NOTE TIME 6-7 pm 9 yrs and under, 7-8 pm for 10 and up.
June 22 - Monday, Pearisburg Town Pool. 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 23 - Tuesday, AWAY MEET @ TAZEWELL: Arrive by 4:45 pm. More details soon.
June 24 - Wednesday, Tentative - Castle Rock Pool 7-8 pm for 9 yrs and under, 8-9 pm for 10 and up
June 25 - Thursday, HOME MEET against Welch: Arrive by 4:45 pm. More details soon.
June 26 - Friday, Tentative - Castle Rock Pool: NOTE TIME 6-7 pm 9 yrs and under, 7-8 pm for 10 and up.
Castle Rock Pool: In Pembroke, Turn between the Subway / Amish Furniture store and take Castle Rock Rd all the way to the Castle Rock Recreation Area. You will pass the baseball field / Treasure Island area on the right as the road turns sharply left. Continue up the hill and down and up again and you will come to the entrance. Drive into the area and follow the road as it curves to left. The pool is to the right - There is plenty of parking.
PLEASE COME AND PRACTICE WITH US...These pool parties at Castle Rock are VERY expensive and we need to get some bang for our buck.
Remember - Swim meet at Concord on June 30th. Arrive at 4:45. More details soon. NO MEET July 2 or July 7 due to the 4th of July. Practice schedule for this time will be announced soon.
LAST THING: Please be sure to fill out your permission form and meet attendance sheet ASAP. This will help me build the team roster and plan the meets.
Thanks to all
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Mock Meet Thursday June 18
On Thursday June 18th we will hold our annual Mock Meet. Swimmers and parents are asked to arrive at the pool at 6:45. Swimmers will get a list of their events and parents will help set up the meet and get assignments and training for duties during the meets. We will set up the pool for the meet starting at 7 pm, then the meet will start. (Normal meets start at 5:30). This meet should only last a couple hours...depending on getting all the bugs worked out, etc.
Purpose: This is a "mini-meet" designed to give new swimmers and parents a taste of what a swim meet is like, and it gives the team a chance to test all the equipment needed for the upcoming meets.
Families: Probably most important, this meet gives parents a chance to try out the jobs they will be doing during the meets. Some examples include: clerk of course (organizing swimmers in each event), timer (stopwatch duty during each race to get the swimmer's time), starter (announces each event and starts each race), runner (picks up time cards from each lane after each race and other paperwork and delivers them to the scorer's table, also pick up and deliver other items around the pool as needed), scorer (records swimmer's times, places in each event, records points awarded, scores meet), working concessions (selling food items or swim related items), Children's keeper (help small kids know when to go to the clerk of course, help kids move from clerk to starting blocks, helps find kids that don't show up at the blocks at the right time, etc), and stroke and turn judge (judges the swimmers as they swim to ensure they follow the rules for each stroke and race).
If you are new, you will be taught everything you need to know about how to do the jobs you are interested in doing. Most jobs are easy, some require a bit of training, but all are important. Every family is expected to help out in some way during the home meets. Most duty shifts are for half a meet, so it is not really that hard to help out. Again, we will help all new parents (and returning parents) learn what to do and how and when to do it. You will have lots of help and guidance. Equally important - setting up for the meet and taking all the equipment down after the meet requires lots of help from parents. The coach will be very busy coordinating swimmers before the meet and finalizing meet results after the meet. The swim team officers and volunteer coordinators will help everyone know what needs to be done.
The meet coordinators will explain all this in more detail at the Mock Meet and there will be more discussions before the first home meet.
Swimmers: We will have 18 events, or races, at the Mock Meet. (Normal meets have 64 events, give or take.) Event 1 will be boys 6 and under 25 meter freestyle. Event 2 will be girls 6 and under 25 meter freestyle...up to event 12, which is girls 15-18 50 freestyle. The list of events for each swimmer will be posted on a bulletin board (see below). For the mock meet, every swimmer will swim one individual freestyle event, and each swimmer will be "racing" against other swimmers in his/her gender and age group. The last 6 events will be relay races, where groups of four swimmers will form relay teams that will race against each other. These teams will be made up of boys and girls together. Again, 6 and under teams will race against each other and so on up to the oldest swimmers. (In regular meets, most swimmers will swim 1 to 4 events and 1 or 2 relay races depending on age, skill level and swimmer preference).
I will post on a bulletin board the list of swimmers participating in the meet and in which events they are swimming. Swimmers will often write their event numbers on their arms so they won't forget. Then swimmers will listen for the announcement of each event. When they hear their event number called, they will be told to report to the clerk of the course. This will be in the corner nearest the pool steps (by the tennis courts). Once they arrive at the clerk, they will be given a small card with their name on it which will tell them the event number and what the race will be (which they will already know from the bulletin board posting). The card will also tell them what lane they will swim in for the race. If the event is a relay, the card will have the names of all swimmers on the relay team. The clerk will put the kids in order (based on what lane they are in) and the kids will sit in chairs until it is time to go to the blocks. The clerk will tell the kids when to go to the blocks and a Child keeper will lead the kids to the blocks and help them stay in order. Once at the blocks, the timers will get the swimmer's card, and the starter will announce the event number and what the race will be. At that point, the starter will tell the swimmers to get on the blocks (or beside the blocks for those kids that are not comfortable with the blocks yet), take your marks, and a buzzer will sound to start the race. At that point, the swimmer will swim the race. When the swimmer touches the wall, the timers will stop their watches and record the swimmer's time on the card. When all swimmers have finished the race, all the swimmers will be told to exit the pool, and the next event will begin. Swimmers will go to the waiting area to rest and the cards will be taken to the scorer's table for processing. Swimmers then listen out for their next event to be called.
Swimmers are expected to cheer for their team mates as they swim. This can be the most fun part of the meet. It is my hope that we can do some team cheering and yelling before the meet starts. Team spirit is a great morale builder and it helps calm the nerves before the meet. More information about the regular meets will be posted soon, including directions for away meets, events, jobs, etc. Please check back regularly.
LET'S GO, JETS!
Purpose: This is a "mini-meet" designed to give new swimmers and parents a taste of what a swim meet is like, and it gives the team a chance to test all the equipment needed for the upcoming meets.
Families: Probably most important, this meet gives parents a chance to try out the jobs they will be doing during the meets. Some examples include: clerk of course (organizing swimmers in each event), timer (stopwatch duty during each race to get the swimmer's time), starter (announces each event and starts each race), runner (picks up time cards from each lane after each race and other paperwork and delivers them to the scorer's table, also pick up and deliver other items around the pool as needed), scorer (records swimmer's times, places in each event, records points awarded, scores meet), working concessions (selling food items or swim related items), Children's keeper (help small kids know when to go to the clerk of course, help kids move from clerk to starting blocks, helps find kids that don't show up at the blocks at the right time, etc), and stroke and turn judge (judges the swimmers as they swim to ensure they follow the rules for each stroke and race).
If you are new, you will be taught everything you need to know about how to do the jobs you are interested in doing. Most jobs are easy, some require a bit of training, but all are important. Every family is expected to help out in some way during the home meets. Most duty shifts are for half a meet, so it is not really that hard to help out. Again, we will help all new parents (and returning parents) learn what to do and how and when to do it. You will have lots of help and guidance. Equally important - setting up for the meet and taking all the equipment down after the meet requires lots of help from parents. The coach will be very busy coordinating swimmers before the meet and finalizing meet results after the meet. The swim team officers and volunteer coordinators will help everyone know what needs to be done.
The meet coordinators will explain all this in more detail at the Mock Meet and there will be more discussions before the first home meet.
Swimmers: We will have 18 events, or races, at the Mock Meet. (Normal meets have 64 events, give or take.) Event 1 will be boys 6 and under 25 meter freestyle. Event 2 will be girls 6 and under 25 meter freestyle...up to event 12, which is girls 15-18 50 freestyle. The list of events for each swimmer will be posted on a bulletin board (see below). For the mock meet, every swimmer will swim one individual freestyle event, and each swimmer will be "racing" against other swimmers in his/her gender and age group. The last 6 events will be relay races, where groups of four swimmers will form relay teams that will race against each other. These teams will be made up of boys and girls together. Again, 6 and under teams will race against each other and so on up to the oldest swimmers. (In regular meets, most swimmers will swim 1 to 4 events and 1 or 2 relay races depending on age, skill level and swimmer preference).
I will post on a bulletin board the list of swimmers participating in the meet and in which events they are swimming. Swimmers will often write their event numbers on their arms so they won't forget. Then swimmers will listen for the announcement of each event. When they hear their event number called, they will be told to report to the clerk of the course. This will be in the corner nearest the pool steps (by the tennis courts). Once they arrive at the clerk, they will be given a small card with their name on it which will tell them the event number and what the race will be (which they will already know from the bulletin board posting). The card will also tell them what lane they will swim in for the race. If the event is a relay, the card will have the names of all swimmers on the relay team. The clerk will put the kids in order (based on what lane they are in) and the kids will sit in chairs until it is time to go to the blocks. The clerk will tell the kids when to go to the blocks and a Child keeper will lead the kids to the blocks and help them stay in order. Once at the blocks, the timers will get the swimmer's card, and the starter will announce the event number and what the race will be. At that point, the starter will tell the swimmers to get on the blocks (or beside the blocks for those kids that are not comfortable with the blocks yet), take your marks, and a buzzer will sound to start the race. At that point, the swimmer will swim the race. When the swimmer touches the wall, the timers will stop their watches and record the swimmer's time on the card. When all swimmers have finished the race, all the swimmers will be told to exit the pool, and the next event will begin. Swimmers will go to the waiting area to rest and the cards will be taken to the scorer's table for processing. Swimmers then listen out for their next event to be called.
Swimmers are expected to cheer for their team mates as they swim. This can be the most fun part of the meet. It is my hope that we can do some team cheering and yelling before the meet starts. Team spirit is a great morale builder and it helps calm the nerves before the meet. More information about the regular meets will be posted soon, including directions for away meets, events, jobs, etc. Please check back regularly.
LET'S GO, JETS!
Friday, June 12, 2009
Practice Monday June 15 at TOWN POOL!!!!!
Hello All,
We have a deal worked out with the Country Club for practices, but we don't have the final arrangements worked out in time for tonight. So no practice tonight. Sorry for the late notice. I was trying to finalize everything but can't quite yet.
PLEASE NOTE: WE WILL BE AT THE TOWN POOL ON MONDAY FOR PRACTICE. I have reserved a pool party for us so its assured (weather permitting!) On Monday I will have the schedule finalize for practice at the Country Club vs Town Pool. Most of July will be at the Town Pool too since we have lots of reserved practice times too.
Thanks and have a great weekend.
We have a deal worked out with the Country Club for practices, but we don't have the final arrangements worked out in time for tonight. So no practice tonight. Sorry for the late notice. I was trying to finalize everything but can't quite yet.
PLEASE NOTE: WE WILL BE AT THE TOWN POOL ON MONDAY FOR PRACTICE. I have reserved a pool party for us so its assured (weather permitting!) On Monday I will have the schedule finalize for practice at the Country Club vs Town Pool. Most of July will be at the Town Pool too since we have lots of reserved practice times too.
Thanks and have a great weekend.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
No Practice Thursday June 11 - New Practice Location Soon
I am pleased to announce that the Country Club in Pearisburg has agreed to let us hold practices at their pool. We have to coordinate schedules first, but this will help us out. Right now we are looking at the regular schedule of 7-8 and 8-9 each day. I will post a schedule as soon as possible. We have lots of days reserved at the Town Pool, too, so watch for the location of practice as well. All the meets, including the Mock Meet on Thursday June 18th, will be at the Town Pool. Just practices at the country club.
Right now, we don't have a schedule and I don't know if tonight is okay, so we will not have practice. I don't like missing tonight, but we just don't have everything worked out just yet.
Thanks to all
Right now, we don't have a schedule and I don't know if tonight is okay, so we will not have practice. I don't like missing tonight, but we just don't have everything worked out just yet.
Thanks to all
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Stay tuned for news on a new practice location
Hello,
Just a reminder that there will be no swim practice tonight due to a pool party at the Town Pool. Plus, I think the thunderstorms would make it tough for us anyway!
We are in the final stages of working out a new venue for holding swim practices at regular times. Things will be finalized tonight, and I can give you all the information tomorrow.
We are still going to hold all our home meets at the Town Pool, including the Association Meet.
I know this has been a huge distraction for us, between the weather problems and the pool parties. I am asking all of you to stick tight with us and know that good days are ahead for the team. I still want to go undefeated in the regular season (we have lost only to Tazewell in their pool the last two years) and win the Association Meet (this will take some work). We have what it takes. We just have to get it done.
Thanks to everyone. Please stay tuned. Jim
PS: please let me know if you need to be added to our email list!
Just a reminder that there will be no swim practice tonight due to a pool party at the Town Pool. Plus, I think the thunderstorms would make it tough for us anyway!
We are in the final stages of working out a new venue for holding swim practices at regular times. Things will be finalized tonight, and I can give you all the information tomorrow.
We are still going to hold all our home meets at the Town Pool, including the Association Meet.
I know this has been a huge distraction for us, between the weather problems and the pool parties. I am asking all of you to stick tight with us and know that good days are ahead for the team. I still want to go undefeated in the regular season (we have lost only to Tazewell in their pool the last two years) and win the Association Meet (this will take some work). We have what it takes. We just have to get it done.
Thanks to everyone. Please stay tuned. Jim
PS: please let me know if you need to be added to our email list!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
AVON ORDER PICK UP...and new EMAILS
Hello Team,
AVON ORDERS: Michelle Burton will be at the Giles Senior Center (adjacent to the pool) from 6:30 to 7 pm tonight to hand out Avon orders that folks need to pick up. Please see her there RAIN OR SHINE. We need to get these items to our supporters. PLEASE: we still desperately need funds so keep up the great work on fund raisers. Next up is Krispy Kreme donut sales - Yum.
Email: We have an email list serve we use to communicate important notes and messages. If you aren't getting the messages, I don't have your email on the list. Please send me a note at gilesjets@yahoo.com and I will add you right away!
I like to have kids' emails and parents' emails so everybody knows what's going on. So please send me as many contact emails as you like to be sure everyone is included.
We are working on alternate venues for practices in the month of June. It may take a day or two, but we will get ths worked out and we will have plenty of time to get everyone strong in time for our meets.
New swimmers: Please hang in there with us. This is unprecedented and it is taking us a little time to work around it. We have a great team and you will be glad you stuck with us! We will work on strokes and technique and strength together.
Thanks to all. Jim
AVON ORDERS: Michelle Burton will be at the Giles Senior Center (adjacent to the pool) from 6:30 to 7 pm tonight to hand out Avon orders that folks need to pick up. Please see her there RAIN OR SHINE. We need to get these items to our supporters. PLEASE: we still desperately need funds so keep up the great work on fund raisers. Next up is Krispy Kreme donut sales - Yum.
Email: We have an email list serve we use to communicate important notes and messages. If you aren't getting the messages, I don't have your email on the list. Please send me a note at gilesjets@yahoo.com and I will add you right away!
I like to have kids' emails and parents' emails so everybody knows what's going on. So please send me as many contact emails as you like to be sure everyone is included.
We are working on alternate venues for practices in the month of June. It may take a day or two, but we will get ths worked out and we will have plenty of time to get everyone strong in time for our meets.
New swimmers: Please hang in there with us. This is unprecedented and it is taking us a little time to work around it. We have a great team and you will be glad you stuck with us! We will work on strokes and technique and strength together.
Thanks to all. Jim
Monday, June 8, 2009
Pool Party Conflicts with June Practices
Hello,
I regret to inform you that there are pool parties scheduled all week from 7-9 pm, and 9-11 on Thur and Friday. This effectively blocks us out of practice all this week. The same is true for the rest of the month of June.
We have lots of reserved pool time during the month of July, especially leading up to the Association Meet, but that does not solve our immediate needs.
I ask that you not confront or challenge any of the life gaurds or managers of the pool about this. Please allow the swim team leadership to negotiate pool use and changes directly on behalf of the team. Please understand that the pool has the obligation to raise as much money as possible, and they get a lot more from pool parties than from swim practice. For them, it is a simple business decision mandated by the Town.
The swim team leadership and I are working on a number of alternates for practice, and we are trying to resolve this as quickly as possible. I will keep you informed. Please watch here for Blog updates and an updated Google Calendar.
Thanks.
I regret to inform you that there are pool parties scheduled all week from 7-9 pm, and 9-11 on Thur and Friday. This effectively blocks us out of practice all this week. The same is true for the rest of the month of June.
We have lots of reserved pool time during the month of July, especially leading up to the Association Meet, but that does not solve our immediate needs.
I ask that you not confront or challenge any of the life gaurds or managers of the pool about this. Please allow the swim team leadership to negotiate pool use and changes directly on behalf of the team. Please understand that the pool has the obligation to raise as much money as possible, and they get a lot more from pool parties than from swim practice. For them, it is a simple business decision mandated by the Town.
The swim team leadership and I are working on a number of alternates for practice, and we are trying to resolve this as quickly as possible. I will keep you informed. Please watch here for Blog updates and an updated Google Calendar.
Thanks.
Friday, June 5, 2009
No Practice Friday June 5th or Monday June 8th
Hello,
We will not have practice on Friday June 5th or Monday June 8th due to pool parties.
My schedule has been crazy over the past two weeks, and with the rain and pool parties we have been having a really slow start. PLEASE hang in there with us. I will be back in action next week and we can hopefully move forward quickly to get ready for our first meet on June 23 (at Tazewell). Public schools are out on Thursday and things always pick up after that.
I am VERY grateful to all the parents and swimmers who have been helping with practices, including coaching, assisting, equipment, organization, etc. Thank YOU.
New folks - I hope your swimmers are doing okay. I haven't been there to encourage them or answer questions or give much support. I hope everyone will stick with it for a while longer and you'll see how fast folks improve and get stronger.
FUND RAISERS: thanks for working on this. We need to raise funds, and a lot, too. We plan to purchase new starting blocks, but we need the money to do this, and soon. Thanks so much for participating and helping the team.
See you on Tuesday! Let's Go Jets!
We will not have practice on Friday June 5th or Monday June 8th due to pool parties.
My schedule has been crazy over the past two weeks, and with the rain and pool parties we have been having a really slow start. PLEASE hang in there with us. I will be back in action next week and we can hopefully move forward quickly to get ready for our first meet on June 23 (at Tazewell). Public schools are out on Thursday and things always pick up after that.
I am VERY grateful to all the parents and swimmers who have been helping with practices, including coaching, assisting, equipment, organization, etc. Thank YOU.
New folks - I hope your swimmers are doing okay. I haven't been there to encourage them or answer questions or give much support. I hope everyone will stick with it for a while longer and you'll see how fast folks improve and get stronger.
FUND RAISERS: thanks for working on this. We need to raise funds, and a lot, too. We plan to purchase new starting blocks, but we need the money to do this, and soon. Thanks so much for participating and helping the team.
See you on Tuesday! Let's Go Jets!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday June 3rd CANCELLED
We are cancelling swim practice for tonight, Wednesday June 3rd, due to thunderstorms in the area. The radar suggests we will not have much of a break in terms of storms for a couple hours.
See you Thursday...I hope.
Please remember that we are taking the team photo at 8 pm tomorrow (weather permitting). Please allow the young swimmers to stay a few extra minutes after practice, and please have the older swimmers arrive about 10 minutes early for this.
Let's Go Jets!
See you Thursday...I hope.
Please remember that we are taking the team photo at 8 pm tomorrow (weather permitting). Please allow the young swimmers to stay a few extra minutes after practice, and please have the older swimmers arrive about 10 minutes early for this.
Let's Go Jets!
Monday, May 25, 2009
Let's Go Jets!
Tuesday May 26th is our first practice.
7 pm to 8 pm, ages 9 and under
8 pm to 9 pm, ages 10 and up
While we are updating our e-mail list, be sure to check back here for weather announcements regarding practices.
If it is dreary and sprinkling or light rain, we will practice. If it is thundering and lightning, we will not swim. If a thunderstorm passes before practice, we will swim as soon as the pool gives the all clear. Please watch back for announcements.
See you in the POOL!
*** Please NOTE: The Swim Team Calendar is now available. The link is on the right side. This is still under construction, so watch for updates!!!!
7 pm to 8 pm, ages 9 and under
8 pm to 9 pm, ages 10 and up
While we are updating our e-mail list, be sure to check back here for weather announcements regarding practices.
If it is dreary and sprinkling or light rain, we will practice. If it is thundering and lightning, we will not swim. If a thunderstorm passes before practice, we will swim as soon as the pool gives the all clear. Please watch back for announcements.
See you in the POOL!
*** Please NOTE: The Swim Team Calendar is now available. The link is on the right side. This is still under construction, so watch for updates!!!!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Are you Ready for Swim Team 2009????
Hello Giles Jets,
Are you ready for Swim 2009? This will be an exciting summer, to say the very LEAST! We are hosting the Association Meet at our pool on July 25th. This will be a great opportunity to win it all! Our Pool, Our Meet, Our Trophy!
We will hold our annual Parents Meeting on Monday, May 18th at 6 pm at the Giles Senior Center beside the Town Pool. This meeting is for everyone - but we encourage new swimmers and parents to attend for information. If you know anyone interested in swim team, please invite them to attend.
Some highlights:
We are planning to start practice on Tuesday May 26th (the Tuesday after Memorial Day). Our practice times will be 9 years old and under, 7-8 pm, and 10 years old and up, 8-9 pm.
Our first meet is June 23 at Tazewell. We will have a Mock Meet on June 18th at our pool to give new parents and swimmers a chance to see how a meet is set up and run. It will be very short and a great warm up for our meet season.
We are in the process of buying new starting blocks for the season. These are very expensive and we will need a lot of help with our fundraising this year to cover this cost and all the many other costs associated with swim. Please plan to participate - we can't function without everyone's help.
Parents: I will need your help more than ever this year. My job has changed substantially over the past year and my availablity is way down this summer. I need a number of parents who are willing to help. I would like to ask if any of you can make a commitment to run practices for me from time to time - esp during the early weeks of practice. I will still plan the meets and organize the swimmers, but I would be glad to help one or two of you learn this job, in hopes that you might serve as meet planners. I especially need parents and swimmers to commit to helping set up and take down equipment before and after swim practices. All of this is easy if we all help - and its fun to support the swimmers and the team.
I hope to see you on May 18th at 6 for the parents meeting. I will definitely see you on May 26th!
LET'S GO JETS!
Are you ready for Swim 2009? This will be an exciting summer, to say the very LEAST! We are hosting the Association Meet at our pool on July 25th. This will be a great opportunity to win it all! Our Pool, Our Meet, Our Trophy!
We will hold our annual Parents Meeting on Monday, May 18th at 6 pm at the Giles Senior Center beside the Town Pool. This meeting is for everyone - but we encourage new swimmers and parents to attend for information. If you know anyone interested in swim team, please invite them to attend.
Some highlights:
We are planning to start practice on Tuesday May 26th (the Tuesday after Memorial Day). Our practice times will be 9 years old and under, 7-8 pm, and 10 years old and up, 8-9 pm.
Our first meet is June 23 at Tazewell. We will have a Mock Meet on June 18th at our pool to give new parents and swimmers a chance to see how a meet is set up and run. It will be very short and a great warm up for our meet season.
We are in the process of buying new starting blocks for the season. These are very expensive and we will need a lot of help with our fundraising this year to cover this cost and all the many other costs associated with swim. Please plan to participate - we can't function without everyone's help.
Parents: I will need your help more than ever this year. My job has changed substantially over the past year and my availablity is way down this summer. I need a number of parents who are willing to help. I would like to ask if any of you can make a commitment to run practices for me from time to time - esp during the early weeks of practice. I will still plan the meets and organize the swimmers, but I would be glad to help one or two of you learn this job, in hopes that you might serve as meet planners. I especially need parents and swimmers to commit to helping set up and take down equipment before and after swim practices. All of this is easy if we all help - and its fun to support the swimmers and the team.
I hope to see you on May 18th at 6 for the parents meeting. I will definitely see you on May 26th!
LET'S GO JETS!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
