Pictures, Pancakes & WaterWorld

I wanted to give all the swimmer families (new and old) an idea of what our Pictures, Pancakes
and Water World day will look like.  These fun activities are scheduled for Wednesday, June 29th.
Please note there is no regular morning swim practice on this day.

Starting at 7:30am we will begin taking individual/buddy swimmer pictures.  
There will be an order form in each swimmer folder next week and I will also post a link to this
form on the blog.  Please have this form completed when you arrive.
At 8:00am we will begin our BIG team picture. If you aren't getting individual pictures taken we ask you arrive no later than 8:00am so
you can be included in the team picture.  Please make sure you wear your team swimming suit.

While the pictures are being taken we will have people preparing Gatorcakes (green pancakes).  
There will be a parent sign-up for parents to help cook and also bring some food.
Watch on the blog for this sign-up coming soon!

After the pictures have been taken and Gatorcakes have been eaten it is off to WaterWorld.  
Please know this is not a required event. Also know that there is no adult supervision so you
will need to plan accordingly.  Below is a link and instructions on how to purchase discounted
WaterWorld tickets. Our team receives discounted tickets which can be purchased and printed online.

To purchase WaterWorld tickets please visit:
https://calypsoclub.waterworldcolorado.com/affiliate.asp?ID=50F8949F-61B1-4EE7-8F31-52797430F005  Once on this page you will be prompted for a Password.  

The password to purchase tickets is GMGators.

You can purchase tickets for your family and friends to go on this day or any day in the 2018 season.

This link will also allow you to purchase discounted for Adventure Golf and Raceway, in case you
need something to do during the summer.

Swim Buddies! (Finally)

Hello Gators! I am finally getting around to posting the swim buddies so here they are.

Anastasia - Scarlett
Kati - Maddie
Taryn - Leah F
Kayla - Whitney
Emma N - Taetum
Marie - Lexi B
Lea G - Charlize
Emma B - Izzy
Megan - Teagan
Olivia - Mia, Lucy V
Lexi M - Kamiree
Anna - Jessa
Alia - Lily B
Lucille - Jensen
Maddy M - Lily S
Lexi L - Neva
Camille - Anisa
Brooke - Beth
Sammy - Taylor
Kimya - Addy

Will L - Everett, Ben S
Nathan - Nick
John - Dominic
Keagan - Kai
Brett - Charles
Harry - David, Jake S
Jack - Jakey
Kaden - Owen
Willam K - Eli
Riley - Noah

Reminders Week of 6/18

- Our 2nd Intrasquad is on Wednesday night. All swimmers have until the end of practice on Wednesday to sign up.  -- PIZZA!!! We will be selling pizza and soda at the intrasqaud meet. YUM!
- The Ken Caryl Invitational is on Friday/Saturday. Please check the blog later in the week for individual time entries and parent volunteer needs. We are still waiting to hear from the Meet organizers for final details.
- The C/D Meet is on Sunday: Swimmers have until Thursday at end of practice to sign up for this meet. It is an online sign up (right side of blog). We will need 4 timers and 1 official for this meet. Please sign up to help if you are attending.
- The Pentathlon is also on Sunday: Swimmers have until Thursday at end of practice to sign up for this meet. It is an online sign up (right side of blog). Please check back for parent volunteer needs. We are still waiting to hear from the Meet organizers for final details.
- Next week on Wednesday, June 27th:  Pictures, Pancakes and WaterWorld Day! More info to come soon, but please know that in lieu of practice we will have team and individual pictures, along with a pancake breakfast for all swimmers. For those who want to join us, we will then head up to WaterWorld for a day of fun. We will have a discount link posted soon for tickets, along with meet up details.

Swimmers of the Week (week of 6/11/18)

Female Swimmer of the Week: Camille Anderson
Camille was a champion of lane four this week, keeping on track with the intervals and completing the sets with her best effort. She consistently practices excellent technique and is a great example for her teammates. She crushed it at the meet, posting great times in the relays and her individuals and always followed any advice we gave her. Nice job Camille!

Male Swimmer of the Week: Everett Tompkins
Everett has been an excellent role model in the smaller 9-10 practice. He keeps up with the intervals and doesn't mess around when he is supposed to be swimming, giving it his all in every set. This showed in the meet when he dropped lots of time in his 50 back and 100 free. Also, everyone should be like Everett and come ask for advice before and after their races! Way to go Everett!

GMSC Parking Lot Closed Monday 6/18

The City of Lakewood is finishing up a paving job on Union. The parking lots will be closed on Monday 6/18. Please use the upper grass lot for swim practice. Thanks!

Gator Updates: Week of June 11 & June 18

We have a TON going on the next two weeks. Please read through and start planning. Many of these events require action on your part to sign up.

Saturday, June 16th:  GMST v. Gennesse @ GMSC  -- this is our last home meet for about a month. Genesse is small team, so the meet should end earlier than our previous meets. Your child has until the end of practice on Friday to sign up. Also, Gennese has requested a fun parent/coach relay in the middle of the meet. We are in need of 1 or 2 parents to step up and help us with this! Please email Danielle if interested.

Wednesday, June 20th:  Instrasquad #2 @ GMSC  -- sign up sheets will be put up for this event on Monday 6/18 and will be taken down Wednesday 6/20 after practice.

Friday/Saturday, June 22/23:  Ken Caryl Invitational Meet -- your child must qualify for this meet by getting Qualifying Times up to and during the Saturday meet against Gennesse.  Click on Qualifying Athletes to see list of who has qualified thus far.  If your child is able to swim, Ethan must know by the end of the meet against Gennesse. We will submit all names at the end of Saturday. There will be no changes to add/scratch after this. No exceptions. -- Details for event will be on right side of blog.

Sunday, June 24th:  C/D Meet  -- all swimmers with C, D or "no time" in an event may attend this event and swim. All entries must be submitted by Thursday 6/21 at 7am. You can sign up here or on the right side of the blog.

Sunday, June 24th:  Pentathalon @ AAC  -- This meet is for swimmers who have a B or better qualifying time in 3 of the following 5 events:  freestyle, back stroke, breast stroke, butterfly and/or IM.  If your swimmer wants to participate they will swim all 5 events (freestyle, back stroke, breast stroke, butterfly and IM) at this meet. All entries must be submitted by Thursday 6/21 at 7am. You may sign up for this meet here or on the right side of the blog.

Monday, June 25th:  Practice is cancelled. The coaches have earned a day off and your swimmers have earned an "active recovery day".  Let them sleep in and run free :)

Night Practice Change

Due to an event at the pool on Thursday, night practice will be switched to tonight for those interested.

Need 1-2 Parent Swimmers on Saturday!

Hello Parents. We will be having a coach/parent relay during the meet against Gennesse. It’s super fun and will take place right before the Freestyle relays start. It will also be a chance to cool off during a very hot day! Please contact Danielle if you are interested.

Swimmers of the Week (June 4 - 10)

Hello Gators it is time to announce our first swimmers of the week!! (Swimmers are chosen for the week previous to the post).

Female Swimmer of the Week: Taryn McGraw

Taryn was a dream to have at practice and meets as she was consistent in doing what was expected of her and even more. She was always on time for warm-ups and gave it her all in the sets, even the many hard ones. In meets and practice, she often asks for tips on how to improve her technique and then practices improving regularly. She brings her best attitude to all events and even makes the coach's job easier by volunteering to pull lane ropes. Great work Taryn!

Male Swimmer of the Week: Devon Garls

Devon is new to the Gators this year and we are so glad to have him! Without question he took the role of leading the fastest lane in his practice and continues to keep them on pace and working hard. He is quite the powerhouse in races as well. He brings his all to individuals and relays and blows people out of the water, especially in the butterfly, all with a very modest and composed attitude (Look for him at our next meets and you'll see what we mean). Keep it up Devon!

Last Opportunity for Official's Training on Tuesday

If you want to be an official this year, Tuesday is your last chance to receive the training. The clinic will be held at the Stingrays pool (6th Ave West Pool - 400 Holman Way) in Golden with the lecture starting at 5pm and the in-water demo starting at 6:15pm. Returning officials only need to attend the lecture once a year. All new officials need to attend both the lecture and in-water demo. If you have any questions, please contact Dave.

GMSC Offering Swim Assistant Classes for Ages 10+

Green Mountain Swim Club is now offering a water safety class! If you would like to work as a swim assistant, you must be 10 years old and take this class.

The first class is scheduled and will be held on the following days/times:
June 11-14th from 10-10:40am
June 15th 10-11:15am (test day)

Cost of the class is $40 for all GMSC members and Swim Team members ($45 cost for all other participants)
Payment is due at the first class

Sign up today by emailing staffing.gmsc@gmail.com
Limit 6 kids for this class

Reminder for Freestyle Frenzy

You have until 2pm on Saturday to sign up for the Freestyle Frenzy. Please use the "swimmer sign up" link on the right side of the blog. 

Freestyle Frenzy: We have a meet on Sunday that is a fundraiser for our swim team (all times are official and do count towards league and state). Your child must have a "B" time or better in one of the freestyle disciplines (400 free, 200 free, 100 free, 50 free or 25 free) to qualify.  Please check your results times from the Instrasquad and the 5Parks meet against the FSA Qual Times sheet.  Your child can also qualify during the AAC meet on Saturday. If your child does not have a B time, then it is at the discretion of the coahes if they think they are close enough in time to do it. Questions can be directed to the coaches.

Upper Division Night Practice - Cancelled for Tonight

The Swim Club is having movie night tonight, so we won't be able to have night practice. Enjoy your night off :)

Update of Practice Times (Again!)

Hi Parents. We are needing to shift practice times again. The coaches are working hard to manage our swimmers and make sure that they all have enough space to swim hard and be safe.  We will start on Monday, June 11th with the new practice times. If you want to start today... go for it! If you have any questions, please see Coach Ethan.

6:30 am - 8:00 am: age 13 and older  - same
8:00 am - 9:00 am: age 11-12 - change
9:00 am - 9:50 am: age 10 and under - change

Swimmer of the Week--starting next week

The Gator coaches and board members are excited to implement a new award for swimmer of the week.  This swimmer recognition will begin next week.

During the summer swim season the coaches will be recognizing one female and one male swimmer each week.  Swimmers can be chosen from any age group. Upon being chosen for the swimmer of the week the swimmer will be recognized on the blog and on the bulletin board at the swimming pool as well as receiving a Dairy Queen gift card.

Swimmer of the Week criteria

**Behavior and Attitude:  highest standards for behavior and manners at all swim team functions; positive attitude in regards to all swimming related programs

**Effort:  demonstrate a resilient, consistent, hard-work ethic both in and out of the pool

**Attendance:  attends practice regularly; participates in meets consistently

**Learning:  demonstrates excellent listening skills; responsiveness to instruction; improve skill development

**Organization:  demonstrates independence; self motivator; arrives on time; has all "equipment"

**Performance:  applies skills and techniques acquired/developed during practice in meets; demonstrates proper form; drops time in events

**Team Work:  demonstrates excellent teamwork helping all team mates; cheers for other swimmers during events; participates in buddy program

**Gator Factor:  All the above and a little something extra!!!!!!!!!!!

Parent Volunteers

Attention all parents:

We are trying something new with our parent volunteer sign-ups.  We have posted links on the blog (right hand side) for all meets with parent volunteer opportunities.  Please look at this list and sign-up in advance for meets your swimmer will be attending.  The sooner you sign-up the better chance you will have to do the job you want :)

Thanks in advance for supporting the Gators and trying this new feature.  

Change of Venue for Saturday Meet vs. AAC

Please note the Saturday meet against Applewood Athletic has been moved to our pool.  AAC is still going to "host" the meet which means that they will run the heating shed, computer results table, concessions, etc but will do this from our pool.  We will not need to "staff up" our volunteers like a normal home meet, but we still need a small bit of help like at our away meets. The GMSC Pool Board was kind enough to give us the pool until 11:00 am on Saturday because of our emergency situation of not having somewhere to swim on Saturday. A HUGE thanks!! However, this does mean that we might have to cut relays from the event and/or go down to two events per swimmer. Please have your swimmer sign up as usual for the meet (3 events and relays if they want) and understand that some of this might get cut.  The schedule of events will be set before the meet starts and there will be no deck entries on the day of the meet. Thanks for being so understanding and please say thank you to any pool board member that you might run into!

Big Buddies

We are trying to determine if our tradition of having Big Buddies (upper division) cheer, mentor and encourage Little Buddies (lower divisions) is a possibility this year. The coaches have reached out to your kids to see if they would like to do it. Please let your child know to talk to their coach if they are interested. Thanks.

Upper Division Night Practices

Night practices for upper division only will start this week.
Tuesdays/Thursdays from 8:00pm-9:00pm
Text Ethan if you plan to attend. (720) 335-4894

Updated practice info

As discussed at the parent meeting, here are the updated age groups for practice starting on Monday, 4 June. If you need to practice in another session for any reason, see Ethan for approval. Please adhere to this schedule so that our kids have sufficient lane space.


6:30 am - 8:00 am: age 13 and older
8:00 am - 9:00 am: age 10-12
9:00 am - 9:50 am: age 9 and under

More officials training available!

The league added some additional training on Sunday June 3 at 2:30 pm at GMRC (lecture only) and Tuesday June 12 5:00 pm at Stingrays (both lecture, then water demo at 6:15 pm). If you're interested, please attend one of these sessions. We can always do additional training on deck at a swim meet.

REMINDERS FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 4TH:

Meet Volunteers: Thank you to everyone who volunteered at the meet on Saturday, especially those who double volunteered to fill in the gaps!! As a reminder, every family needs to volunteer/sign up for at least one shift at every meet that you attend. If your kid is there, you need to be helping. We can't do it without you. Seriously, we can't do it without your help.

Saturday Meet vs. AAC:  We will be swimming at the Applewood Athletic pool on Saturday. Apparently they are having some construction done on a new shed that will effect both where we can sit/setup and whether or not they have electricity. We may be going old school with candlelit bathrooms and paper only time keeping.  Results may not be posted on race day, so please be patient. And if they tell you to sit somewhere else, just smile and say OK.

Freestyle Frenzy: We have a meet on Sunday that is a fundraiser for our swim team (all times are official and do count towards league and state). Your child must have a "B" time or better in one of the freestyle disciplines (400 free, 200 free, 100 free, 50 free or 25 free) to qualify.  Please check your results times from the Instrasquad and the 5Parks meet against the FSA Qual Times sheet.  If your child does not have a B time, then it is at the discretion of the coahes if they think they might get a B time at the AAC meet. Questions can be directed to the coaches.

Tie-Dye washing instructions

In case you didn't go home with instructions for your newly tie-dyed item.........

Please wait 24 hours to wash. Leave the item in the bag until you are ready to wash. While the shirt is still tied, it needs to be rinsed under cold running water. When you see very little dye running off the item, start to gradually remove the rubber bands while still rinsing. Get as much dye out as possible this way. Immediately after rinsing wash the item ( by itself ) with cold water and soap in the washing machine. Once this item has been washed and dried you are good to wear.

Wear your Gator gear around the pool!

Tie Dye & Ice Cream Social / Parent Meeting

On Friday, June 1st we will have our annual tie-dye and ice cream social. This is a tradition of tie-dying apparel with the Gator team colors that has been carried on for years . We are going to incorporate a mandatory parent meeting into this event.

This event will be from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Mandatory Parent meeting will begin 5:30 pm. Please plan on having one parent attend this meeting. We will discuss some summer season information and introduce all of the coaches and board members.
-Tie-Dye can be completed anytime between 5:00-7:30pm (this will allow them to finish by 8:00pm when the pool closes). Each person is responsible for bringing an item if they would like to tie-dye. The swim team will supply the dye (and the fun). It would be helpful if the item you were going to tie-dye was already prepared with rubber bands.
- Ice Cream will be served around 6:00pm and will be available until this is all eaten.
- We will also have our Gator apparel (shirts, sweatshirts, hats and swim caps) available for purchase. These items can be purchase with cash, check or credit card. We will have white tank tops and tshirts available for purchase as an option of something Gator to tie-dye.

NOTE: The pool will be open and kids will be able to swim.

Snack Shack Open for Intrasquad on Wednesday

The Swim Club will open the Snack Shack for our first Intrasquad meet on Wednesday.  We won't have burgers or pizza this meet, but they will have soft pretzels, Gatorade and other "snacky" food for the kids. -- If you are interested in grilling burgers at a future Intrasquad, please speak with Danielle.

Swim Suit Delivery

If you ordered a swim suit, please check in with Carol Hruby. She will be at practice tomorrow (Wednesday) from 7:50 am- 9:10 am and at the Intrasquad. She has picked up the first round of orders from our swimsuit fitting night at the Rec Center.

REMINDERS FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 28TH
Hello Gators! We have a BIG week to start off the season.

MORNING PRACTICES:
Morning practices start on Tuesday 5/29.
6:30 am - 8:00 am: age 14 and older
8:00 am - 9:00 am: age 10-13
9:00 am - 9:50 am: age 9 an under

INTRASQUAD #1: 
Our first meet with our own team will be this Wednesday starting at 5:30 pm. All details including volunteer sign ups are on the right hand side of the blog.

PARENT MEETING/ICE CREAM & TIE-DY PARTY:
We will have a fun gathering Friday night at the pool that starts at 5:00 pm.  The parent meeting will begin at 5:30 pm.  Your swimmer can bring a shirt, tank top or other item to tie-dye in team colors to wear throughout the season. We will have team tshirts and tanks to sell as well that you can tie-dye.

5Parks vs. GMST
Our first dual meet against another team starts on Saturday, June 2nd. This is a home meet at our pool.  Warmups are at 6:00 am (Visiting team has warmups at 6:30 am) with the meet starting at 7:00 am. 5Parks is a large team, so plan to be at the pool until about noon.  Also, if your child chooses to skip the warm up, there will not be another time for them to jump in the pool for that purpose. Once the meet starts at 7:00 am it is full steam ahead!  Please see the right hand side of the blog for the sign up link for volunteers.

REMINDER: After School Practices Start Today

Where:  Green Mountain Swim Club
 When:  13 and up will swim from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm / 12 and under will swim from 5:00 pm -6:00 pm

Official's Training Today @ 4:30pm!!

New officials must attend one of the classroom training sessions (5/20 or 5/23) and the in-water demo on 5/23. After the training, you will shadow a veteran official for two meets (intrasquad meets count). Plan on the training session taking approximately one hour.

• Sunday, 5/20 @ 4:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training)
• Wednesday, 5/23 @ 6pm (training) and 7pm (in-water demo) Applewood Knolls
• Sunday, 6/3 @ 2:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training; returning officials only)

AFTER SCHOOL PRACTICES START MAY 21ST

Please note that after school practices will start on Monday, May 21st at the Green Mountain Swim Club. 
13 and up will swim from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm / 12 and under will swim from 5:00 pm -6:00 pm

TEAM SWIM SUITS

Thank you to everyone who made it to the Rec Center for the Team swimsuit ordering/fitting.

If you missed the event, you can call Christine at the Colorado Swim Shop or go online to order your suit. If your order by May 18th, your suit should arrive before our first meet (plus we will pick it up for you and save you the shipping costs). After May 18th, you will need to direct ship to your house. 

site: www.coloradoswimshop.com

password: Greenmtn18

Team suit style:  TYR Sagano Green

Call for questions:  Christine 303-545-2090

 ** ORDER BY MAY 18TH FOR DELIVERY BEFORE OUR FIRST MEET***

PLEASE NOTE: Date Change for Swimsuit Fitting

The swimsuit fitting has been moved to Sunday May 6th
same time:  5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
same place: Green Mountain Rec Center
same awesome people: Your GMST Gators and the Colorado Swim Shop

We look forward to seeing you there!!

Don't Forget! Officials Training Session Next Sunday

New officials must attend one of the classroom training sessions (4/29, 5/20 or 5/23) and the in-water demo on 5/23. After the training, you will shadow a veteran official for two meets (intrasquad meets count). Plan on the training session taking approximately one hour.

• Sunday, 4/29 @ 2:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training)
• Sunday, 5/20 @ 4:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training)
• Wednesday, 5/23 @ 6pm (training) and 7pm (in-water demo) Applewood Knolls
• Sunday, 6/1 @ 2:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training; returning officials only)

If you have any questions, send them my way. Thank you! Dave

Mark Your Calendars for the Summer Team Swim Suit Fitting/Ordering

Mark your calendars: Sunday, May 6th 5:00pm - 7:00pm for the Gator team swimming suit fitting
We will be at the Green Mountain Rec Center with the Colorado Swim Shop on this date to start our countdown to summer swim season!
Our swimming suit vendor will be taking orders for the team swimming suit. They will have different sizes on hand for swimmers to try on so that the correct size suit can be ordered.
If you can't make this date, we will post information for ordering at a later date. You will not have the option to try suits on in advance of your order if you miss the 4/29 fitting.
Please let us know if you have any questions regarding this gmstgators@aol.com

Lifeguards & Water Safety Instructors Needed!

The GREEN MOUNTAIN SWIM CLUB is now accepting applications!

Interested in working at the pool during the 2018 season?

WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR/LEAD GUARD
Candidates must meet the Lifeguard requirements listed below:

Have a current WSI certification
Be a natural leader and smart decision-maker
Willing and able to hold people accountable for completing shift responsibilities and behaving in
a mature, responsible manner while at work
Able to assist with last minute scheduling needs
Genuine passion for teaching children how to swim
Compensation: $12/hour with the potential to go up with teaching lessons

LIFEGUARD
Candidates must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 15 years old
Have a current Lifeguard Certification including CPR from the American Red Cross, YMCA, City of Lakewood or similar organization.
Willing and able to conduct swimming lessons for a variety of ages and skill levels
LOVE working with and spending time with kids!
Available at least 20-25 hours per week, including weekends and holidays
Mature, punctual, responsible, self-motivated, and a good work ethic
Compensation starts at minimum wage with the potential to go up with teaching lessons

TO APPLY: Go to https://www.greenmountainswimclub.org/staff/team-gmsc/ to fill out and email an application.

Congratulations Ben Hofstra!

It is my pleasure to announce that Ben Hofstra will be joining our Gator coaching staff this summer as an assistant coach. Ben has been working hard this offseason for the Gators, designing and leading our swim clinics on Sunday evenings. Please congratulate Ben when you see him. Ben's hire rounds out our coaching staff with Ethan leading the way and Kaylyn returning for another summer. We're looking forward to a fun season and some fast swims. Go Gators!

Summer swim team registration

Warm weather is here and we are excited to start registration for the summer swim team season!  Please start watching the blog for updates as we pass along information about things starting this summer  It is easy to be notified of updates if you like Green Mountain Swim Team on Facebook or subscribe on the Gator blog.  

If you plan on swimming with the Green Mountain Gators this summer please complete the following registration.  Use the following link to sign your swimmer up.  Upon completing the registration you will mail in your payment along with the completed emergency contact form, liability waiver and code of conduct.

We will publish the summer swim practice times as soon as they are finalized.  This will include the start dates and the start times.

We are excited to start thinking swim team.  Please let us know if you have any questions about swim team or the registration process.

Officiating volunteers needed

Hi parents! Are you looking for a fun way to support your swimmers and the team this summer? If you're tired of timing or other volunteer duties, I recommend that you consider helping out as an official. The role of an official gives you front-row access to every race and we can't run a swim meet without them.

Who makes a good official?

• Someone who swam competitively (helps, but not required)
• Someone who believes in fair competition; there are rules and the officials are responsible for enforcing them
• You can handle the rare coach or parent voicing their displeasure with your disqualification (DQ) call

What do officials need?

• White shirt
• White shorts/skirt
• Whistle
• Pen
• Nametag (will be ordered by the league)

What is expected of an official?

• Help officiate at all home meets
• Help officiate at away meets (typically 2-3 per team is helpful)
• If in doubt on any DQ call, the benefit goes to the swimmer (no call)
• Have fun!

If you are interested, please refer to the training times & locations below. New officials must attend one of the classroom training sessions (4/29, 5/20 or 5/23) and the in-water demo on 5/23. After the training, you will shadow a veteran official for two meets (intrasquad meets count).

• Sunday, 4/29 @ 2:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training)
• Sunday, 5/20 @ 4:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training)
• Wednesday, 5/23 @ 6pm (training) and 7pm (in-water demo) Applewood Knolls
• Sunday, 6/1 @ 2:30pm Green Mountain Rec Center (training; returning officials only)

If you have any questions, send them my way. Thank you! Dave

WANTED: Assistant Coach

Gators, family & friends,

We are looking to fill one more assistant coaching position for this upcoming summer. At this time, we have Ethan Schick as our Head Coach and Kaylyn Schull as an assistant coach. We need one more assistant coach to fill out the staff. We are looking for someone with a swimming background who can teach proper stroke technique to various age levels, can devote 10 weeks to the team during the summer (21 May - 29 Jul), and wants to have fun.

Preferred (not required):

• Applicants with valid lifeguard and CPR certifications
• Prior coaching experience

Pay depends on coaching experience.

If you or somebody you know is interested, please have them call or text me at 303-906-9420 to discuss the opportunity. I'm also available to chat at most of the swim clinics on Sunday evening. Thank you! - Dave Anderson, GMST President

REMINDER: SWIM CLINIC STARTS ON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH.

We'd love to see your kids in the pool with our great coaching staff!  Registration can be found below or on The Swamp blog.

Spring Swim Clinic

Clinic Details:

Sunday evenings at the Green Mountain Rec Center (13198 W. Green Mountain Dr.)

10 weeks

February 18th-May 6th (no clinic March 25th or April 1st)

Swimmers 12&under 5:00-6:00pm

Swimmers 13&up 6:00-7:00pm (this may change depending on number of swimmers registered)

Cost: $90 for each session per child (cash or check made payble to GMST)

Spring Swim Clinics starting in February

Is your swimmer ready for summer to begin?  The swim team will be holding our spring clinics starting in February.  This is a great way for swimmers to start working back to being summer ready.

Spring Swim Clinic

Clinic Details:

Sunday evenings at the Green Mountain Rec Center (13198 W. Green Mountain Dr.)

10 weeks

February 18th-May 6th (no clinic March 25th or April 1st)

Swimmers 12&under 5:00-6:00pm

Swimmers 13&up 6:00-7:00pm (this may change depending on number of swimmers registered)

Cost: $90 for each session per child (cash or check made payble to GMST)

Last day for promotional GM Swim Club membership rate!

Today’s the last day to get the reduced rate on a 2018 summer membership! It’s $425 today, but the price goes up tomorrow! bit.ly/GMSCTWPromo

Green Mountain Swim Club Membership Sale Through Jan 2

Looking for a gift idea? Give the gift of swimming at Green Mountain Swim Club! Memberships are on sale for $425 for new and renewing families! Take the plunge today! Offer good through Jan. 2. The price goes up after that, so take the plunge today! Click on the link for more info.

No swim clinic on 11/26

A reminder that there is no swim clinic next Sunday, 11/26. The final indoor clinic for the Fall will be held on Sunday, 12/3 at the Green Mountain Recreation Center. The dates and registration link for the Spring clinics will be posted soon. Go Gators!

Green Mountain Swim Club Black Friday special

Black Friday Membership Special - $375

Join today for $375 and save $50 off the current promotional price.

We’re only offering 30 memberships at this price. This is the lowest price of the year and will go up after the first 30 members accept this offer.

Sign-up here for Black Friday membership deals

Please visit the Green Mountain Swim Club website for more information

Pool Membership Promotion

Are you looking to renew your membership at the Green Mountain Swim Club next year? If you are, don't miss out on the opportunity to save $50 and renew at a rate of $425 if you pay in full by January 2, 2018. Refer to the attached membership letter and 2018 membership application for more details.

 

Starting to think Christmas?

The Holiday season is upon us.  The weather is starting to change and it will be Christmas before you know it.  There are 49 days until Christmas.  I am here to help provide you with great gift ideas.  If you purchase a gift for your swimmer through Swim Outlet you are getting them something they will love and can use all year long.  You will give it to them in December and they will love it and will continue to love it again in the summer when they can wear it around the pool.

Visit the Gator Store on Swimoutlet.com to view some amazing apparel and accessories

Swim clinics begin Sunday

This is a reminder that our Sunday indoor clinics will begin this Sunday.  If you haven't signed up yet it isn't too late.  Please sign-up here.
All clinics will be held at the Green Mountain Rec Center
All swimmers will practice from 5:00-6:00pm

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Opportunities for swimming outside of summer swim team

Hello swimmer families,
  I just wanted to remind you of opportunities for your swimmer to continue to swim outside of the summer season.  The Green Mountain Gators host a Sunday night swim clinic at Green Mountain Rec Center.  This is a 10 week session that will help swimmer stay in the water and work on stroke technique.  Please click here to register for this.  Visit the Gator Blog for the clinic dates and times.

We were also informed about another opportunity for kids in 8th-12th Grade.  Please see the details below.  Please email or call Tim with any questions regarding this program.

High School Swimmers and Parents

• Are you planning on swimming and representing your High School?
• Do you hope to earn a Varsity Letter or maybe swim on an “A” relay?
• Do you want to help your team score more points at the League or possibly even the State swim meet?
• Would you like to be in great shape on the first day of practice, and maybe even set a PR in your very first meet of the season? YOU CAN!

TEAM SWIMMING WANTS YOU!

• One hour, Intense, Intent driven, No-nonsense practices.
• CHSAA Certified High School Coaches.
• An ENVIORNMENT that promotes successful, fast, and competitive High School and Summer Club swimming. You WILL get FASTER and BETTER!
• Designed specifically to allow young student athletes to participate in other High School Sports or activities while continuing to swim year round. Year round training without the expense or commitment “Club” swimming requires.
• Four practices per week. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.
• NO weekend commitments, NO extra fee’s, NO Pressure!!
• OPEN TO ALL 8^TH -12^TH GRADERS WHO MEET QUALIFING STANDARDS.

FALL SESSION: September 11- November 2, 2017.

7:30PM-8:30PM

Green Mountain Recreation Center

(WINTER and SPRING SESSIONS TBD)

Contact: Tim Horne, 843-267-0086, tim@100percent.us

$250.00 covers 32 practices and a “TEAM SWIMMING” T-shirt.

Fall clinic registration now open

Does your swimmers want to be back in the water?  Do they need a little extra help with stroke technique?  Do you know of a kid that would like to join swim team?  Well the Gators are here to help with all of the above.  We will be starting our indoor fall swim clinic at the end of September.  These clinics will run for 10 weeks and will work with swimmers to help them develop and/or strengthen their strokes.  Register your swimmer here

All clinics will be held at Green Mountain Recreation Center (13198 Green Mountain Dr.)

Clinic times are as follows:

Swimmers 12&under:  5:00-6:00pm

Swimmers 13&up:  6:00-7:00pm

These times and age groups may change depending on the number of swimmers registered. Final practice times will be communicated by September 17th.

Fall clinic dates

September 24th

October 1st

October 8th

October 15th

October 22nd

October 29th

November 5th

November 12th

November 19th

December 3rd

Fall indoor swim clinic sign-up here

Please plan on bringing payment (cash or check payable to GMST) to the first session.  Also, if your swimmer wasn't on swim team this summer we will need the following forms completed.  Please print these (Emergency Contact Form and Liability Release) and submit them with your payment.

Please email any questions/concerns to gmstgators@aol.com
 

Did you lose something? Lost and Found

Lost and Found
We have accumulated a few items over the summer that belong to swim teams kids and/or families. If you can claim any of these items please comment below or send an email to gmstgators@aol.com and we will coordinate a time to get these back to you.

Thank you again for a wonderful summer!

Camp Out at the pool - this Saturday

Are you wondering what to do this weekend?  Trying to find a fun way to end summer?  Sign-up to camp out at the pool.  This Saturday night the Green Mountain Swim Club will be hosting their 3rd annual camp out.  You will need to sign-up to participate for a night under the stars, late swim and family fun!  Please visit the Green Mountain Swim Club website for additional information.
Camp Out sign-up

We hope you all have had a great start to the new school year.  Please watch for the indoor Fall swim clinic date and registration to be posted soon.

End of season and things to do at the pool

It is always bittersweet when swim team ends.  The summer swim season is amazing and seems to go by so quickly, as these 2 months are very busy.  Then comes the end of the season when summer finally starts and things slow down a little (just in time for school to start).  Thank you to the parents and swimmers for a wonderful 2017 summer swim team season.

If you didn't pick up all the contents from your swimmer files these will be at the pool in the lifeguard office during normal business hours.  If you need to make other arrangements to get these please email and we will coordinate something.

We would also like to share a few events happening the remainder of the summer:

• if you still want to go to Water World discount tickets are still available.  Click here for the link to purchase tickets (password:  GMGators1)

Things happening at the pool.  Fun to be had by all!

• Friday, August 4th from 8:00-10:00pm:  Friday Flick and Late Swim
• Showing Finding Dory
• Join the members of the swim club for a movie under the stars and an evening of late swimming.  
• This event is free to swim club members and $5.00 per non-member
• Bring your blanket or floatie and watch a movie under the summer sky.  Drinks and popcorn will be provided
• Sunday, August 6th from 9:00am-12:00pm:  Flippin Flapjacks Fundraiser
• Tickets are $10.00 per plate.  Includes unlimited pancakes, sausage, coffee/orange juice
• Tickets are available at the door with cash, check or credit card.  You may also purchase tickets in advance online
• Open swimming to the public (today only) for $3.00 per non-member
• Sunday, August 13th from 6:00-8:00pm:  Teen Night (Luau theme)
• Food, games and swimming for kids ages 12-17
• Cost is $7.00/member and $10.00/non-member

We hope you all enjoy the rest of summer and wish all the swimmers a successful school year.  For more information about the swim club events please see their website or call them for details.

We hope to see some of you in the Fall at our indoor swim clinics and we look forward to summer 2018!

Banquet tonight is still on

Well Mother Nature is now following our normal Wednesday summer swimming weather pattern and is planning on raining tonight. (I guess we should be fortunate that the weather has been great up until recently). 
But don't worry, we are still going to have the banquet tonight. It might be a little wet and a little chilly so plan accordingly. If your family has a pop-up tent please bring this to help provide shelter from the rain. Bring umbrellas if you need and we will see tonight to end our swim season.
I am hoping by sticking to our original plan and having the necessary items we will be blessed with a few hours of no rain (keep your fingers crossed).
See all of you at the pool tonight at 5:30pm.

Swim Team pictures

If you ordered swim team pictures this year I will have these at the banquet on Wednesday.  Please come find me and I will make sure you get these.  They turned out great.  If you didn't order pictures you still have an opportunity to order the team picture and/or age group pictures online.  I am sure once you see these you will need to get one :) (If you order online these will be sent to your house)
Link to purchase team/age group pictures

Please let me know if you have any questions about this.

End of season banquet: Wednesday night

It has come to that time of the swim season that we get all swimmers together to recognize them for an amazing season and share our thank you's.  We would like to invite all the swimmers and their families to our end of season banquet.  This banquet will be at Green Mountain Swim Club and this event will begin at 5:30pm.  The Green Mountain Swim Team will provide pizza and water/lemonade.  We are asking families to bring a side dish and/or dessert based on Last Name to share in our potluck style dinner.
If your last name begins with A-L you are asked to bring a dessert to share
If your last name begins with M-Z you are asked to bring a side dish to share

We look forward to seeing our swimmer families on Wednesday!

State swimmers practice

Practice this week will only be for swimmers who will be swimming at the State Meet this weekend.
Practice times have CHANGED:
Upper division (13&up) practice from 7:00am-8:00am
Lower division (12&under) practice from 8:00-9:00am

Good luck and swim fast this weekend!

Schedule 7/24-7-30

What an amazing weekend for the Gators!  The Green Mountain Gators placed 2nd at the 2017 League Meet.  We are looking forward to our end of season banquet and the State Meet.

Here is the schedule for this week:
Practice this week is only for swimmers swimming an event in the State Swim Meet this weekend.
Practice times have been changed for these swimmers:
         13&up practice 7:00-8:00am
         12&unders practice 8:00-9:00am

Wednesday, July 26th:  End of season banquet at 5:30pm at GMSC
Another post will be coming about information about the banquet

Friday, July 28th-July 30th:  State Swim Meet at Splash (3151 Illinois St.)
Friday:  400s (meet starts at 3:00pm)
Saturday:  Lower division, 12&unders (meet starts at 9:00am)
Sunday:  Upper division, 13&up (meet starts at 9:00am)

We hope to see you all Wednesday.

Upper division swimmers practice time change Friday

Upper division swimmers (14 and up):  practice time change for Friday morning.  Swimmers will begin practice at 7:00 tomorrow on Friday 7/21.  Enjoy your additional 30 minutes of sleep.

Parents of League swimmers please volunteer

This post is for parents of League swimmers
If your swimmer is swimming at League we need you to volunteer.  The parent volunteer sign-up needs to be filled.  Thank you if you have already signed up.  Please continue to check back as parents may need to sign-up more than one volunteer opportunity.

The Data Verification and Card Running responsibilities are essential (and easy).  

Data Verification:  Work with coaches to verify qualification times for any swimmers who fail to make the league qualifying time in any race.

Card Runner: Collect timing sheets from the timers and deliver to data entry

We need to make sure we are completing all of our team responsibilities at this meet.  Please make sure you sign-up soon.  Thank you for your support.

League 400 swimmers

Attention swimmers swimming the 400 at League:
Practice on Friday will be at 9:15am (not 6:30am) if you are swimming the 400
We wish you the best of luck on Friday night!

Swimmers of the week

It is hard to think that we are almost done with swimmer of the week as we will be done swimming soon.  We have amazing kids on our team!

Male Swimmer of the Week:  Conor Sharpe

Conor qualified for league in the 25 free for the first time this past weekend!  This came after a real tough week in practice but that didn't phase him.  Conor has been the chief negotiator for his lanes in practice, making sure to keep us coaches on our toes.  With his quick wit, Conor is routinely a joy in practice.  The coaches are very excited to see Conor swim in his first league meet, where we know he's gonna do great.  Good job Conor!

Female Swimmer of the Week:  Rachel Bakkum

Rachel qualified for league after she dropped a ton of time in her 25 fly at the Intrasquad.  Rachel loves to compete both in practice and in the meets.  In practice she's always gunning to lead the lane and to complete each set first.  She has no fear of any of the strokes or races.  She is a bundle of endless energy that is willing to try hard in any set and also encourage others in her lane to do the same.  Great job Rachel!  

Movie Night tomorrow: Moana

Here is a reminder that we will have our swim team movie night tomorrow.  We will be watching Moana.  Parents please drop your swimmers off at the pool around 8:00pm and pick them up by 10:00pm.  There will be popcorn and water available for all the kids and they are welcome to bring their own snacks if they want as well.  They are encouraged to bring something to sit on (blanket/sleeping bag/chair) as we will be sitting in the grass.
Note:  no swimming allowed tomorrow night and this event is for swimmer only

Schedule 7/17-7/23

It is crazy to think that 56 days ago we started swim practice for the summer swim season.  It is sad to think that some of our Gators are done swimming for season.  We have had a great season and many kids made huge accomplishments.  These accomplishments include kids swimming on a team and in a meet for the first time, meeting a new friend, swimming a new stroke, being a big/little buddy and getting qualified for the League or State meet (these are just a few examples).  Great job Gators!

The schedule this week will be as follows:
Practice this week will only be for swimmers who are swimming in the League meet this weekend.
There will be no upper division night practice this week

If swimmers are needed for relays in the League meet they will be contacted on Monday and can begin attending practice on Tuesday.  Thanks in advance to any swimmer who participate in relays as the team appreciates your support.

We hope all swimmers will attend movie night on Wednesday, July 19th.  We will be watching Moana on the grass at the pool.  The movie will begin a little after 8:00pm and kids will need to be picked up by 10:00pm.  This is a drop off event so parents don't need to stay.  There will be popcorn and light snacks available and water will also be served.  Kids are welcome to bring additional food and/or blankets, sleeping bags or pillows.  This event is for swim team kids only and there will be no swimming during this time.

League meet is this weekend.  Good luck to all the swimmers swimming at this meet!  Parents please see the sign-up genius to volunteer to help at this meet.

Please continue to check the blog/Facebook as there will be information soon about the end of season banquet on July 26th

Intrasquad meet--RESCHEDULED until tomorrow

We have made the decision (with the support and cooperation of the swim club) to move the Intrasquad meet to tomorrow night.  We weren't positive on what the weather was going to do so we played it safe and changed our plans.  We hope that everyone can still make this meet tomorrow.

• We will still start with warm-ups at 5:00pm with the meet starting at 5:30pm.
• The coaches will still swim a relay at the end of the night (we gave them one more day to prepare)
• If your swimmer CANNOT swim tomorrow evening please let Jennifer or a coach know at practice tomorrow and we will revise our entries. (original individual entries)
• If parents are no longer able to volunteer as originally planned please delete your sign-up and we will have other parents fill-in where needed.
• Pizza meals will still be served and Gator apparel will be available for purchase for the last time this season.

We also understand that swimmers planned on picking the events for Saturdays meet after they swam tonight.  Swimmers will have until the end of practice on Friday to pick their events for our meet on Saturday.  We will get the results from the Intrasquad posted as soon as we can on Thursday night.

Thank you for understanding that we don't have total control and Mother Nature won today :)  Please email any questions you have to gmstgators@aol.com

Intrasquad meet tonight

We are really hoping the weather will cooperate with us tonight.  We are just asking for a few hours of nice weather between the hours of 5:00pm and 8:00pm (that doesn't seem like a lot :)).  Please watch the blog and/or Facebook for updates.  We will post any changes (cancellations or later start time) as soon as a decision is made.  Hope to see you all tonight and do a little rain dance for the Gators!

Night practice canceled tonight

Attention upper division swimmers and parents
Night practice is canceled tonight due to weather. Let's hope Mother Nature gets it all out tonight so we can have good weather tomorrow for the Intrasquad.

Swimmer of the week

We are excited to announce the swimmers of the week.

Male Swimmer of the week:  Jakey Skimel
Jakey qualified for league in his 100 freestyle this past weekend.  It was the first time Jakey has swam the race this season.  In practice, he is one of the most focused swimmers on the team.  He is always eager to start on the next part of the set and gives it his all each time.  He is also very good at finding any mistakes in the sets for the day, providing both humor and relief for the coaches.  Jakey is a great example in our 8 and under group and we look forward to seeing him continue to improve the rest of the season.  Good job Jakey!

Female swimmer of the week:  Jensen Wehri
This past weekend Jensen qualified for league in her 50 breaststroke!  Jensen has been targeting the league qualification time in the 50 breaststroke all summer.  Her constant effort in practices and her ability to stay focused and committed is clear everyday.  She continues to demonstrate the attitude and sportsmanship we look for in all Gator swimmers.  We're very excited to see Jensen compete at league.  Great job Jensen!

Last Chance meet--Sunday

On Sunday our swim team will host the Last Chance meet.  The Last Chance meet means just what its name says....this is the swimmers last chance to get qualified for League.  If a swimmer is within a few seconds of qualifying for League and they want to try to get qualified they can swim in this meet.  If swimmers want to swim in this meet please click here to sign-up.  Swimmers must sign-up by Saturday at 5:00pm.  

We need volunteers for this meet.  Since our swim team is hosting 4 other teams at our pool we need parent help with this meet.  Even if your swimmer is not participating in this meet we still would love to see you at the pool.  This is a great time for parents to volunteer since they won't miss their kids events.  Also swimmers are welcome to come help and support their teammates by cheering them. on.  Please see the parent volunteer sign-up and volunteer your time.  Thank you in advance for your help.  

League qualifiers

This week the coaches will begin getting swimmers signed up for the League meet if they qualified.  Here is a list of swimmers who have qualified for League (as of July 8th).  Swimmers still have a chance to qualify on Wednesday at the Intrasquad, Saturday at our meet against WheatRidge and also on Sunday at Last Chance.

If your swimmer is qualified for League they need to talk with a coach this week to let them know if they are/aren't able to swim.  The coaches will talk to the swimmers during this time to determine what events they want to swim.  We will publish this list again after the meet on Wednesday to include any swimmers who qualified that night.   The coaches will email/call swimmers who qualify on Saturday/Sunday or if swimmers are needed for relays to verify attendance.  Our teams entries are due on Monday so we need to have these completed.

Here is the schedule for the League meet so you confirm if you can attend or plan what events to swim
Friday, July 21st at 5:00pm upper division 400's (events 1-6)
Saturday, July 22nd at 8:00am all swimmers medley relays through backstroke (events 7-64)
Sunday, July 23rd at 8:am all swimmers free relay through individual medley (events 65-110)

Please let me know if you have any questions

Schedule for 7/10-7/16

This week will be the last week for regular morning practice and night practice.

Monday-Friday:  regular morning swim practice

Wednesday:  Intrasquad meet (warm-ups at 5:00pm and meet starts at 5:30pm).  Parents please sign-up to volunteer.  Swimmers will sign-up at the pool by the end of practice on Wednesday.  They can swim 2 events (or 3 if they are trying to qualify for League/State).  This night will end with our coaches relays.

Tuesday and Thursday night 8:00-9:00pm:  night practice for upper division (and parents).  This will be the last week for these practices.  Please let Porter know if you plan on attending.

Tuesday and Wednesday stroke clinic 9:45-10:15am:  freestyle and backstroke clinics for swimmers who have already signed-up

Saturday:  meet vs WheatRidge (warm-ups at 6:00am and meet starts at 7:00am).  Swimmers will need to sign-up for this meet by the end of practice on Thursday.  Swimmers will sign-up for 3 individual events and indicate if they can participate in relays.  Parents need to sign-up to volunteer.

Sunday:  Last Chance meet at GMSC (warm-ups at 6:00am and meet starts at 7:00am).  More information about this meet to be posted.

State Meet program advertising

The 2017 State swim meet will be hosted by our Foothills Swimming Association.  This meet will be held at Splash in Golden.  We would like to support any family or local businesses by encouraging them to advertise in the State meet program.  If you are a swim team family and have or know a local business that would like to advertise please complete the following form.
Thank you for your support in this meet

3-DAY FLASH SALE FOR LEAGUE APPAREL

The Stingrays are trying things a little different this summer with the sales of League T-shirts and apparel.  They are doing a VERY quick ON-LINE pre-sale starting Saturday, July 8th and running until Monday, July 10th at midnight!  On-line ONLY specials will be available along with SPECIAL SALE pricing for all the merchandise on-line!

All orders can be placed online at http://www.acsapparel.com/fsa-swimming/ ONLY UNTIL MONDAY JULY 10TH AT MIDNIGHT!

Get your league champion shirts now! Act quickly. These deals are online only!

*More colors/styles to select if pre-ordered

Last Intrasquad meet Wednesday

It is sad to think that we will be swimming our last Intrasquad meet of the season on Wednesday, July 12th.  This meet will begin at 5:30pm with warm-ups starting at 5:00pm.  Swimmers can sign-up for 2 individual events (or 3 if they are trying to qualify for League and/or State).

You won't want to miss this night.  Swimmers will be swimming fast, parents will be helping time, pizza will be served and coaches will be swimming.  Everyone is going to want to stay until the end of the meet to witness our coaches swim.  The Gator coaches will swim in a medley relay against swimmers in each age group (as well as parents).  We will put together relays that night but parents please come prepared to participate.

Please let me know if you have any questions.  We will plan to see you all on this fun entertainment filled evening.

Saturdays meet

This Saturday will be the Gators last away meet for the season (that is hard to believe).  If your swimmer is swimming in this meet they need to sign-up today.  If they didn't sign-up at the pool today during practice please send an email to gmstgators@aol.com.  This applies to swimmers who were on vacation this week but will be at the meet on Saturday.  Please include in this email the three individual events they want to swim and also if they can participate in relays.

Parents we need your help timing.  There are still slots available so please click here to sign-up.  If your swimmer is swimming the IM we need you to sign-up for third shift timing.  Thank you in advance for your help.

Schedule 7/3-7/9

We hope you all enjoyed your swim free weekend.  Here is what this week looks like.

No morning practice Monday or Tuesday

Regular morning practice Wednesday-Friday

Wednesday, July 5th:  Starts/Turns stroke clinic 9:45-10:15 (swimmers must already be signed-up to attend this clinic)

Thursday, July 6th:  Evening practice 8:00-9:00pm for upper division and parents.  Please don't forget to let Porter know if you will be there.

Saturday, July 8th:  GMST vs Applewood Knolls (meet starts at 7:00am and warm-ups begin at 6:30am).  Swimmers need to sign-up for their events at the pool by the end of practice on Thursday.  Parents please see the volunteer sign-up to help out during this meet.  Many families are still on vacation so we need your help.

Thank you and have a wonderful July 4th!