Practice Attendance
Our summer swim season is nine weeks long from the first practice through Divisionals. Attendance by every swimmer at as many practices as possible is essential. We realize that there are numerous end of school year activities and spring sports which are still ongoing, but it is important that swimmers attend every practice session possible. While we know that some of our swimmers also participate in year-round swim programs, Fox Hunt Splash supports the team aspect of our sport and we encourage all our swimmers, regardless of other affiliations, to join us for as many workouts and activities as possible.
Practice Etiquette and Behavior
We ask that swimmers arrive a few minutes before the scheduled practice time to allow them to be prepared to begin practice when it begins. This includes putting on sun block, goggles, cap, etc. Newer and younger swimmers often need help with these activities and we encourage you to help us by getting them to ask coaches and fellow swimmers to assist them in order to build trust and teamwork. It is tough for the younger ones at first, but you will be amazed at how they grow through the season.
Likewise, newer parents may need some guidance throughout the season and we encourage our newer families to get to know experienced Fox Hunt families and benefit from their team knowledge. All parents have an important role to play throughout the season, however, during practice, if you do stay to watch your swimmer we ask that all parents stay off the swim deck at all times. The coaches will let you know if they need assistance with your child.
Our coaches have a responsibility to maintain safety for all swimmers in the pool. Please minimize distracting them during practice and save your questions until all swimmers have cleared the water and the coaches are finished working with them.
For those new to summer swim program, we find the water can be quite cold in the beginning of the season and many of the younger kids are reluctant to enter the water. With time, they will learn the best way to warm up is to start swimming. We understand the cold and monitor the temperature for safety. So please help us encourage the swimmers when doubts creep into their minds about coming to practice. You know your swimmer best. If they are having difficulty with it, continue to encourage them to try and speak to the coaches. We have learned it lessens the impact if you come prepared early in the season with warmer clothes to put on when getting out of the water. The water will warm up eventually, so if it is going to be a major struggle to get them into the water on a cool and cloudy day, don’t fight it. Save it for a warmer day. We have all been there.
Weather
Rain: Practice will continue as scheduled in rain
Thunder or Lightning: Practice will be canceled.
If you are unsure for all afternoon practices, please call the pool at (703) 451-5015. The lifeguards will be there monitoring the situation.
