Practice Group Advancement Criteria:
St. Croix Swim Club believes our coaches are in the best position to determine swimmer ability and readiness to move to the next level. Move up will occur with recommendation from your present coach and agreement of our coaching staff. The swimmer has to be able to consistently perform at practice and swim meets. They must meet practice attendance requirements and demonstrate appropriate mental and physical maturity. Swimmers are expected to show leadership in and out of the pool. Positive, responsive attitude to learn new technique and to make adjustments is necessary. If there is a case when a swimmer is not meeting the meet or attendance requirements, not performing well at practice, or is unable to keep up with the other swimmers in the group, possible “move down” can occur.
Silver Rays at Stillwater and New Richmond
This level is designed to introduce young swimmers to the sport of swimming while allowing maximum opportunity to participate in other activities. Emphasis is placed on teaching the fundamentals of the four competitive strokes through the use of drills and games that make swimming fun. Practice is offered three times per week and it is recommended athletes attend at least twice a week. Meet attendance is also recommended.
Blue Rays at Stillwater and New Richmond
At this level, proper stroke technique is still the emphasis. However, athletes at this level will be introduced to the basics of training technique. Swimmers will be taught pace clock management and how to understand and execute swimming sets. Participation in all meet types is encouraged, as well as participation in other non-swimming activities. It is recommended that swimmers attend a minimum of three practices per week.
Juniors
This group offers more advanced young swimmers an opportunity to improve stroke and turn techniques with an equal emphasis placed on competitive training. Athletes will begin to develop the endurance needed to become an accomplished swimmer. Practice is offered four to five times a week and it is recommended swimmers attend at least four times a week.
Seniors
This level consists of highly advanced 13 or older swimmers that exhibit SCSC's highest level of swimming and workout ability. These swimmers are expected to be mature, dedicated, responsible, and dependable. As our advanced swimmers increase their commitment to swimming, we insist that they maintain good academic standing. It is recommended that Senior swimmers attend 90% of offered practices, including all dryland practices.
