Here’s the truth about swim meets: they don’t run themselves. Every successful meet requires at least 60 parent volunteers working together to make everything happen smoothly. From timing races to writing ribbons to keeping everyone fed, there’s a role for every comfort level and skill set.
Family participation is mandatory!
We require at least one parent from each family to volunteer at least six times throughout the season (each half of a meet counts as one time slot). The beautiful part is that when you’re involved, time flies, you gain a real understanding of the sport, you help build our team spirit, you become a true part of the team, and you get to be part of the action instead of just watching from the sidelines.
New to the swim team? No worries! We have plenty of positions perfect for first-timers, and our experienced families are always happy to show you the ropes. Learn more about the positions here!
Swim Meet Volunteering
Every position at a swim meet plays a crucial role in making the day successful and safe for our swimmers. Without certified officials, we cannot start the swim meet, it’s an RSL requirement. Without timers, we can’t record results. Without the Clerk of Course team, kids may or may not show up. Without concessions, everyone goes unfed, and no one wants that!
When positions go unfilled, meets are delayed, swimmers miss their events, or worse, meets get canceled entirely. When everyone steps up, magic happens. Meets flow smoothly, kids have an amazing experience, and our team earns a reputation as one of the best-organized in the league.
Your commitment to volunteering isn’t just helping the team, it’s ensuring your own child gets to compete and have the full swim team experience they signed up for.
Important Details
Signing Up: We use Swimtopia, which is an app you can download to your phone. Sign up early for the positions and time slots that work best for your schedule. We open up sign-ups a few days before meets. There are two shifts, and they swap midway through the meet.
Can’t Make It? If you’re unable to support an event you signed up for, you’re responsible for finding a replacement and notifying the Dahlgren Sharks Secretary. We understand that emergencies happen. Communicate with us!
Watch Your Kids Swim: We make special arrangements so parent volunteers can break free to watch their children compete. You won’t miss those important moments. Just talk with the Sharks Secretary after you sign up!
Training Information: For positions requiring certification, check the RSL website at rsl.swimtopia.com/training for online training options.
Between Meets: Other Ways to Help
The team needs support beyond meet days, too! We’re always looking for parent volunteers to help with:
- Organizing concessions – Planning inventory and supplies
- Fundraising coordination – Helping with our various fundraising efforts
- Special events – Team parties, end-of-season celebrations, etc.
- Executive Board participation – Representing families in team decisions and planning
Contact any board member if you’re interested in getting involved between meets.
The Bottom Line
Successful, efficient meets depend on all parents helping throughout the season. When everyone pitches in, our kids get an incredible experience, meets run smoothly, and our team thrives.
Plus, once you’ve helped at a few meets, you’ll understand exactly what’s happening in the pool, appreciate the sport on a whole new level, and have fun connecting with other Sharks families.
So dive in! We’ll show you the ropes, and before you know it, you’ll be a swim meet veteran!
Questions about volunteering? Contact any board member – we’re here to help.