Colony Cudas FAQ
What is GPSA? The GPSA is the Greater Peninsula Swimming Association. There are three divisions within the GPSA – red, white, and blue. We currently swim in the Red division. At the City Championship Meet, we compete against all of the swimmers in the GPSA that have qualified for the events. www.gpsaswimming.org
How many practices do I have to attend each week? If the coaches feel that a swimmer has not been at enough practices and they have not been attending a year round practice, then they may not be eligible to swim in a meet. Please make every effort to attend every practice and let your coaches know if you will be missing any practices and why!
What do I bring to practice? Be dressed in your swimsuit and bring your cap, goggles, towel, and a bottle of water. When am I supposed to arrive at a meet? For home meets, arrive by 4:30 p.m. and by 5:15 p.m. at away pools. Directions for away meets are included in this packet. Weekday meets begin at 6 p.m. City Championship Meet is on Saturday and begins early in the morning.
What are “A” meets and “Friendship” meets? “A” meets are used to determine a place finish within the Red division of the GPSA. The fastest swimmers will swim for points so that the team can win the meet. However, there are exhibition heats at every “A” meet so that every team member has a chance to swim. “Friendship” meets give less experienced swimmers a chance to compete with others at their level and win place ribbons. All times at any meet can be used to qualify for the City Championship Meet at the end of the season.
What do I wear to a meet? We have a team swimsuit and cap that you will wear for meets. Swimmers are encouraged to “save” the team suit and purchase an alternative practice suit or jammer. Board shorts, regular swim shorts and girls’ two pieces are not recommended – they tend to fall off when diving! What about the caps? Each female swimmer (and any male swimmer who requests one) will be issued one team cap at the beginning of the season. Replacement caps will be available at a cost of $6. Silicone Caps can be purchased at a cost of $15. How do I know if a practice or meet is canceled? Check the team bulletin board at the pool, Colony Cudas Swim Team Facebook page as well as your email!
Who do I ask if I have questions? Contact the Swim Team Coach, one of our Swim Team Board Members, or our GPSA Representative at the phone #’s / email address listed below. Do not hesitate to ask questions! Other families who are veteran swim team families are also a great resource!
When can parents talk to the coaches? Anytime except when the coaches are on the deck leading practice or during a meet. The coaches need to have their full attention on the swimmers. Catch them before or after practice or email them your questions or concerns.
How is information communicated to the parents?We rely heavily on email communications so please make sure we have a valid email address on file for you. If you have a situation where both parents need to be notified separately, that’s not a problem – just provide both email addresses. We will also post upcoming events and signups on this website
