Hello Dunsinane Families,

We're excited to kick off the season with our first meet against Black Oak Swim Club tomorrow! Below is everything you need to know to help make it a fun and successful experience for your swimmer and your family.

Don't worry if this is your first swim meet—our coaches, volunteers, and experienced families are always happy to help. Swim meets can seem overwhelming at first, but you'll quickly get the hang of it, and there will always be someone available to answer questions.

Arrival & Warm-Ups

• Dunsinane warm-ups: 5:30–5:50 PM
• Please plan to arrive by 5:00 PM to allow time for parking, check-in, and getting everything and everyone settled.
• Paul and Stephanie will be under the Dunsinane banner as you walk in if you have any questions or concerns.

Volunteer Check-In

If you signed up for a volunteer position, please check in at the volunteer table at the designated time listed on the sign-up form.

Getting Ready to Swim

• Bring a Sharpie and write your swimmer's event, heat, and lane assignments on their forearm. This helps volunteers and coaches keep swimmers organized behind the blocks.
• Swimmers should report behind the blocks at least two events before their race.
• Parents are responsible for helping swimmers get to the correct heat and lane.

What to Bring

• Team swimsuit, swim cap, and goggles
• Towel (or two)
• Sweatshirt or jacket
• Water bottle and snacks
• Sharpie marker
• Lawn chairs or blankets
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Money for concessions and the bake sale

Concessions & Bake Sale

Concessions will include burgers, hot dogs, brats, snow cones, concession stand favorites, and bake sale treats. There will also be Chick-fil-A sandwiches to purchase.

Payment Information

• Concessions accept cash and credit cards.
• Bake sale accepts cash and Venmo only.
• Please do not use bills larger than $20.

Coolers are welcome, but please no glass containers. All coolers are subject to inspection.

Bake Sale Donation Request

The bake sale helps offset the costs of running our swim and dive programs. We ask that each family attending the meet contribute an item based on the first letter of your last name:

A–C: Brownies, donuts, or Rice Krispie treats

D–I: Individual bagged snacks (popcorn, pretzels, trail mix, Goldfish, etc.)

J–Q: Fresh fruit or vegetables, sliced and individually bagged

R–Z: Cookies or cupcakes

Please provide approximately 10 servings and drop off your item at the bake sale table upon arrival. This will be located near the baby pool entrance.  

Meet Information

• Meets typically conclude around 9:00 PM, although end times may vary.
• If you need to leave early, PLEASE be sure to notify a coach before departing.
• During the meet, the remainder of the pool is closed to swimmers, including sitting on the edge or putting feet in the water.
• Be sure to download the SwimTopia app to view your swimmer's events and follow the live event tracker.
• Limited quantities of Dunsinane silicone swim caps will be available for purchase for $10 cash.

Coaching & Racing

• After each race, swimmers should check in with Coach Laura or another coach for feedback.
• Swimmers are encouraged to remain in the water until all swimmers in their heat have finished to show good sportsmanship. 
• A swimmer may receive a DQ (disqualification) if a stroke rule is violated. Coaches will be notified and will review the infraction with the swimmer.

Understanding the Heat Sheet

A heat sheet will be emailed before the meet. It lists every event, heat, and lane assignment.

• NT = No Time (the swimmer has not previously swum that event in competition)
• Printing a copy at home can make it easier to follow along during the meet.

Strokes & Relays

Medley Relay Order

Backstroke → Breaststroke → Butterfly → Freestyle

For 100-meter relays, the 2nd and 4th swimmers (Breaststroke and Freestyle) start from the shallow end.

For 200-meter relays, each swimmer swims two lengths of the pool.

Individual Medley (IM) Order

Butterfly → Backstroke → Breaststroke → Freestyle

Ribbons

Ribbons will be available the morning after the meet in the ribbon file box at Dunsinane, organized by last name. If the box is not out, a pool staff member can assist you.

We are looking forward to a great first meet and a fantastic season. Thank you for being part of the Dunsinane Swim Team!

Go Dunsinane!

Paul & Stephanie