By Bridget Russell, Recreation Supervisor
With summer approaching, the College Station Tsunami Swim Team is gearing up for another season of competition, building strength, and gaining confidence. Here are five indisputable reasons to become a Tsunami.
1. It’s Fun.
The only prerequisite for joining the summer swim team is the ability to swim (anyway, anyhow) for 25 yards. No swimming experience is required, just a desire to work hard, learn, and have fun. Participants must be registered in the College Station Independent School District or live in a city that doesn’t have a swim team.
2. New Friends.
It’s easy to make friends with kids you train with just about every day. The swim meets feature tons of cheering, friendly competition, and chances to socialize.
3. Physical Fitness.
Even if you play soccer in the spring, basketball in the winter, or gymnastics all year long, swimming several hours a week for most of the summer improves your overall fitness and athleticism. Cross-training is just good for you.
4. Self Esteem.
Regardless of your skill level, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll improve as the summer moves along.
5. Life Skills.
Joining a swim team helps you gain confidence and develop essential traits such as motivation and perseverance. A clock measures swimming performance, which allows you to set attainable goals and watch your hard work lead to improvement.
Registration runs through June 30, and practice starts May 3. Due to lane capacities, participants must register by age group (ages 5-18) and practice schedule (Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday). Meets are also divided by age and gender.
The cost is $125 per person with a $10 discount for each additional sibling. One child’s fee is waived for parents who become certified officials and work at least three meets.
Evaluations for new and returning swimmers help coaches place swimmers in the appropriate practice groups and provide the best skill development opportunity. Evaluations are April 26-29 from 5-7 p.m. at Adamson Lagoon. You only need to attend one evaluation.
You can register online or in-person at the Parks and Recreation Office at 1000 Krenek Tap Road.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/pools or call 979-764-3540.
