FAQ
Find answers to some of the most common questions about our programs, registration, schedules, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Winter and summer clubs both support strong swimming development, but they operate differently in structure, training intensity, and competition pathways.
Winter Swim Clubs
- Train September–June (sometimes July).
- Offer multiple practices per week with a focus on technique, endurance, and long term development.
- Participate in Swim BC–sanctioned meets with qualifying standards.
- Provide a progressive group structure with clear advancement pathways Ideal for swimmers seeking consistent training and competitive growth.
New swimmers complete an assessment with a WDSC coach. Returning swimmers are placed based on the previous season’s progress. Group assignments are emailed before the season begins and can also be found in your Program Info package.
Coaches evaluate swimmers throughout the season. Movement is based on skill readiness, training consistency, and coach recommendation. Group changes typically occur at natural transition points (e.g., start of a new session).
As we transition into our summer swimming season, all swimmer schedules will shift in May. If the new times don’t work for your family, we’re happy to work with you to find a schedule that does. If no suitable option is available, we will refund any unused month of fees.
Practices are structured but supportive:
- Coaches lead warm ups, drills, and technique work.
- Swimmers learn pacing, breathing, and stroke development.
- Parents watch from the stands — the pool deck is for swimmers and coaches only.
- Consistency matters: attending regularly helps swimmers progress.
Please notify the club by emailing your coach or the group’s designated contact. For meets, it’s important to communicate early so coaches can finalize entries.
Email is preferred for non‑urgent questions. Coaches are available briefly before or after practice for quick check‑ins.
Yes — for safety and focus, parents should remain off the pool deck during practice. For longer conversations, please schedule a time via email.
All swimmers should attend our annual LMR meet which typically occurs in Oct. Young swimmers should also join mini meets which mimics larger swim meets to familiarize themselves before attending larger meets. Age group level and higher swimmers should attend as many meets as they can.
Our events page on the website is regularly updated as meets are confirmed. Please check and register through the events page which is the best place to stay current. Some meets (LMR and mini meets) are sent by email or posted in your group’s communication channel.
A short, low‑pressure meet designed for younger or newer swimmers to gain experience.
Yes — mini‑meets build confidence, teach meet routines, and help swimmers feel comfortable racing.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early and check in with your coach.
- Warm‑ups begin as a team.
- After each race, swimmers return to their coach for feedback.
Bring: team suit, goggles (plus spare), cap, 2 towels, warm clothes, snacks, water, and a Sharpie for event numbers.
Most swim meets use digital platforms that allow parents to follow results in real time. The most commonly used app is Meet Mobile, but some meets may use other systems depending on the host club.
Swim meets cannot run without trained volunteers. Your participation ensures fair, safe, and efficient competitions for all swimmers.
Timing, officiating, meet setup/takedown, and helping at club events are the most common ways. Training is provided for all roles.
A swimsuit, goggles, cap, towel, and water bottle. Some groups require fins or kickboards — check your group’s equipment list.
We have a partnership with Team Aquatics (Watermania and more locations across the mainland) where they provide swimmers with a shark card specific to our club that offers a 20% discount on gear and suits
There are also online retailers that carry recommended brands. Coaches can suggest reliable options.
Swim suit, cap, goggles. Higher‑level swimmers may use racing suits.
You can ask a coach for one and your account will be charged $20.
Before: light, energy‑rich foods (fruit, yogurt, granola, toast). After: protein + carbs to support recovery (sandwiches, smoothies, pasta, eggs).
Small, frequent snacks such as fruit, crackers, granola bars, and plenty of water.
We have official Winskill Dolphins team t-shirts and caps that are included in your registration fee . Team merch is also available.
Please wear the T-shirt and cap to all competitions and team events unless otherwise noted by coaches.