Good morning,

Welcome to the Southdown Sharks 2024 swim team!! I am your head coach Nastya Jacobson, this will be my 7th season with the team and my love for this team grows each summer. My favorite time of the year is upon us and as we prepare for another amazing season, there is some information that you all as parents and swimmers must know going into our first week of practice.

• The first bit which is the most important piece, our coaching staff needs your help as guardians to promote safety in the pool. There will be several swimmers in each lane and it is imperative that they have spatial awareness and control of their bodies, which can be a big ask. I have attached this 5 minute video on How to Circle Swim so I ask that you take a couple minutes to watch and talk this over with your swimmers. Safety will always be the #1 priority.
• To stay up to date on event information, weather cancellations and meet declarations, download the SwimTopia app. Be sure to put your blue swim team calendar on your fridge so you don't miss a thing! 
• Swimmers are required to wear goggles and a cap if their hair falls in their face. It may take some adjustment for newer swimmers. To keep everyone safe, they must be able to see where they are going.
• If your swimmer has their own kickboard and other equipment, have them bring it to practice. We are also taking donations of diving toys and other swim equipment so if your family has any that you are willing to part ways with, they will be cherished and put to good use with us.
• Each group will start stretching 5 minutes before their practice time so they can jump into the water on time. The first week can feel overwhelming for new swimmers so give yourself ample time to prepare if need be. 
• PM Schedule until June 14
  • Blacktip (8 & under) 7:00-7:40
  • Mako (9-12 yo) 7:40 - 8:20
  • Great White (13 & over) 8:20 - 9:00

If you have any questions, big or small, throughout the season do not hesitate to reach out or ask a veteran parent on the pool deck. We appreciate your commitment and involvement in this team over the next 8 weeks. This is going to be the greatest year yet! See you tomorrow :-)

-Coach Nastya