Swim Team Neighborhoods

There is not a better or more enjoyable way for children to learn to swim than joining a swim team. I was fortunate to have my two young children swimming this past summer. All spring I had them at Sunshine Swim School to help them get over their fear and hopefully prepare them to be on our neighborhood swim team. By the time summer came, they were far from what I considered "swim team ready". They couldn't and wouldn't swim even a short distance to the pool steps. Needless to say, my daughter was still convinced and very much determined that she was going to be on swim team like her friends.

One spring day we stopped by to observe practice. I was really heart warmed to see the coaches so attentive to the young swimmers. After the practice we spoke with the coach who assured us that my kids would be fine, and to sign them up even though they were not swimming independently. I am so glad that we did! My son who had started off the spring, clinging to his Sunshine instructor was swimming independently in meets by the end of the summer!

During the summer the kids had practice 5 days a week, the idea of which seemed overwhelming at first. But here in Indian Ridge, attendance was not mandatory, the environment was relaxed, and emphasis on fun. People came and went from vacations, and showed up to practice when they could. Each practice began and ended with the team cheer, and the kids would echo it throughout the day, and for months to come. From the beginning they swam at home meets with a kick board and an escort swimmer, and everyone got a ribbon every time. They were so proud of themselves and they had a blast. And you know? I had a great time too! Summer here can be like hibernation, but I got to sit in the shade, and visit with other adults. SANITY!!! On Thursday nights there were home meets at our pool, and we would eat a really great dinner from the snack bar (I'm talking some of the best burgers and salads I have had!). It was fun to be out of the house and visiting with so many fun people. This year we will get to add Tuesday night away meets to our schedule as well!

I really encourage you, no matter the age of your children (they start them at 4 in Indian Ridge) to look into swim team this summer. There are teams in neighborhoods (which you do not need to live in to swim with) and at pools around town. I have provided a link for you.

There is something special, however, about living in a swim team neighborhood, many of which have been around for generations. Something great about walking or riding your bike to practice, and hanging out with your neighbors all summer long. The following list of Neighborhood based swim teams.

SAAA Neighborhood Swim teams as of 2008 Swim Season:



CANADA DEL ORO LEAGUE

• Indian Ridge


• Highland Vista


• Tucson Country Club - Located at Tucson Country Club within the Tucson Country Club Neighborhood (must be a member)

SAN PEDRO LEAGUE

• Sabino Vista Hills


• Ventana Canyon (Must be a member of Country Club)
  

PANTANO LEAGUE

• Contiental Ranch


• Sahaurita Swim Team
  

TANQUE VERDE LEAGUE

• Green Hills


• Northwest Countryside


• Terra Del Sol

SANTA CRUZ LEAGUE

• Catalina Terrace (Winterhaven and Surrounds)


• Skyline Bel Air