Registration & Eligibility
How much does it cost to join the Sharks?
Registration fees are based on the number of swimmers in your family:
- 1st swimmer: $155
- 2nd swimmer: $130
- 3rd swimmer: $105
- 4th swimmer: $85
- 5th+ swimmer: $60 each
Fees include RSL insurance, team swim cap, t-shirt, coaching, and entry into all dual meets
What ages can participate?
We welcome swimmers ages 5-18. Your child’s competitive age group is determined by their age as of June 1st of the current season.
Does my child need to know how to swim all four strokes?
No! As long as your child is comfortable in the water and willing to learn, they’re ready for swim team. Our coaches will teach proper technique for all strokes throughout the season. We’re not a learn-to-swim program for complete non-swimmers, but you don’t need to know all four competitive strokes to join.
Is there a registration cap?
Yes. To ensure fairness, we cap registration at 18 swimmers per group on a first-come, first-served basis. If a category is full, your swimmer will be placed on a waiting list.
What’s your refund policy?
Refunds are provided on a prorated basis up to the 1st meet. After the 1st meet, all fees are forfeited.
How do new swimmers register?
New swimmers must attend an in-person registration session at the King George YMCA where they’ll undergo a swimming assessment with our coaches. This helps us place them in the appropriate practice group. Check our website for specific dates and times.
Can my child join mid-season?
It depends on whether spots are available in their age/gender group. Contact a board member to check availability.
My child has a disability or special need. Can they still participate?
Absolutely! Please contact a board member to discuss your child’s specific needs so we can ensure they have the best possible experience.
Practices & Schedule
When are practices?
Practices run Monday through Friday from late May through late July. Practice times vary by age group:
- Level 3 (ages 13-18): 8:00-9:15am
- Level 2 (ages 9-12): 9:05-10:15am
- Level 1 (ages 5-8): 10:05-11:00am
There’s no practice the day after an away meet, and we have fun practice the day after home meets. No practice on July 4th.
What if we’re going to miss meets?
That’s okay! We understand summer includes family trips. Just update your meet declarations in Swimtopia and let the coaches know when you will be gone.
Where do practices take place?
At the King George YMCA pool.
My child is in the YMCA summer camp. Can they take part?
Yes. Let your summer camp leader know, and they will bring your child to practice.
What happens during practice?
Swimmers start with a warmup before getting in the pool to start the lesson that the coach has planned for them.
Team Culture & Rules
What is the team’s philosophy?
Our goal is simple: Show a positive attitude, swim our best, and have fun! We believe every swimmer matters, celebrate personal growth over just winning, and maintain a culture of respect and encouragement.
What are the team rules?
Swimmers must respect all swimmers and coaches, listen and follow coaches’ directions, not leave the pool without permission, pick up after themselves, and bring healthy snacks and water. Unkind or disrespectful behavior is unacceptable.
Do swimmers have to wear team suits?
Team suits are not mandatory, though we recommend black and purple color schemes. Suits cannot have logos from other teams (except small brand logos under 4.65 square inches) and cannot have ties, zippers, or fastening systems.
If I have concerns about the behavior of a coach or swimmer who should I talk?
If you have concerns of any kind about a coach, please reach out to a board member right away.
If you have concerns of any kind about a swimmer, please reach out to the Head Coach.
Volunteering
Do I have to volunteer?
Yes, 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).
What if I’ve never volunteered at a swim meet before?
No worries! We have plenty of positions perfect for first-timers, like timers, runners, ribbon writers, and concession. Experienced families will show you the ropes, and you’ll be a pro in no time.
What positions require training?
Referee, Starter, Stroke and Turn Judges, Head Clerk of Course, Safety Marshall, and Scorekeeper require RSL training and certification. Online training is available at rsl.swimtopia.com/training. These are vital positions, we cannot start a meet without them! Training time varies based on which position you are training for.
Can I still watch my child swim if I’m volunteering?
Absolutely! We make special arrangements so parent volunteers can break free to watch their children compete if they want to. You won’t miss those important moments. Just let a board member know before your shift!
Swim Meets
What is Swimtopia, and do I need it?
Swimtopia is a free app (available for iPhone and Android) that we use to manage meet entries. You’ll need to download it and use it to declare which events your swimmer will compete in for each meet. Missing the declaration deadline means your swimmer won’t be in the swim meet! You will also use it to sign up for volunteering. It is an important part of our communication system.
When should we arrive at meets?
For 6:00pm meets, arrive at 4:30pm for home meets, and 4:45pm for away meets. For 5:00pm meets, arrive at 3:30pm for home meets, and 3:45pm for away meets.
What are DQs, and should I worry about them?
DQ stands for disqualification. When a swimmer breaks a stroke rule, they don’t receive an official time or placement. DQs are learning opportunities that help swimmers understand proper technique! The best way to avoid them is to practice correct form at every practice. Don’t stress if your swimmer gets a DQ; it’s part of learning.
What should my swimmer bring to meets?
Swimsuit, goggles (bring a backup pair!), at least two towels, swim cap, healthy snacks, and water. Remember: changing on the pool deck is NOT permitted! Use the locker rooms.
About the Organization
Are you a non-profit?
Yes, we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to making quality swim instruction and competition accessible to families in our area.
What is the RSL?
The Rappahannock Swim League (RSL) is the governing body that oversees summer swim teams throughout the Fredericksburg region.
Why do you emphasize water safety?
We’re located between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, so water is part of everyday life here. Teaching kids to be confident, capable swimmers isn’t just about competition; it’s about safety, independence, and helping them fully enjoy everything our region has to offer.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help! Contact any board member through our website, check our handbook for detailed information, or ask an experienced Sharks family at the pool. We remember being new once too, and we’re happy to help you navigate your first season.