Welcome to swim meets! Your first meet can feel overwhelming, but once you understand the basics, they become one of the most exciting parts of being part of a swim team.

Before the Meet

Check the Meet Information

• Confirm your swimmer is attending using your commit app/login.
• Review the meet schedule, warm-up time, and location.
• Pack everything your swimmer needs:
• Team suit and cap
• Goggles (bring a backup pair!)
• Towels (more than one is recommended)
• Water bottle
• Healthy snacks
• Team gear/clothing
• Extra warm clothing for between races

Arrive Early

Most meets begin with a team warm-up. Arrive with enough time to find parking, check in, and get your swimmer ready.

When You Arrive

Find the Team Area

Swimmers sit together with their teammates in a designated team area. This is where they will wait between events, stay organized, and support teammates.

Warm-Up

Swimmers warm up in the pool before racing to prepare their bodies and practice starts, turns, and skills.

Check-In

Some meets require swimmers to check in for their events. Coaches will communicate any specific instructions.

Understanding the Meet

A swim meet is made up of events. Each event includes:

• Event number – identifies the race order
• Heat – a group of swimmers racing together
• Lane – the swimmer’s assigned lane

Example:

"Event 12, Heat 3, Lane 5" means your swimmer will race in the 12th event, third group of swimmers, in lane 5.

During the Meet

Cheer for Everyone!

One of the best parts of swimming is the team atmosphere. Encourage all swimmers—not just your own!

Know When Your Swimmer Races

Parents can follow the meet timeline, heat sheets, or meet apps (when available) to track events. Most meets use an app called Meet Mobile. See more about Meet Mobile below!

After Each Race

Swimmers should:

• Check in with their coach
• Review feedback
• Support teammates
• Prepare for their next event

Parent Volunteer Roles

Swim meets depend on volunteers! Parents may help with:

• Timing
• Hospitality
• Concessions
• Setup/cleanup
• Officiating

No experience is required—training and support are available.

Common Meet Terms

Heat Sheet – A list of swimmers, events, heats, and lanes.

Positive Check-In – A swimmer confirms they are participating in an event.

DQ (Disqualification) – A stroke or turn did not meet the official rules.

Relay – A team event where four swimmers each complete a portion of the race.

Split – A swimmer’s time for a portion of a race, often used for relays.

Timed Finals – The final results are determined from one swim.

Finals – A second round of racing for the fastest swimmers after preliminaries.