COMPETITION GUIDE

The Day of Competition

A great meet starts with great preparation. Here is your ultimate guide to a stress-free race day.

Part 1: The Pre-Meet Checklist

✅ Know Your Destination

Check the address and traffic. Aim to arrive 15-30 minutes before the warm-up begins.

✅ Know Your Races

Note your event number and name. Pro tip: Write them on your arm or hand so you don't forget!

✅ Pack Your Bag

Use our handy checklist below to ensure you have everything you need.

Part 2: The Ultimate Packing List

🏊‍♀️ For the Swimmer

  • 🩱 Racing Kit: 2x Costumes/Jammers
  • 🥽 Goggles: Main pair + spare
  • 👕 AST Kit: T-shirt & Hat
  • 🧖‍♀️ Towels: 2 or 3
  • 👟 Footwear: Flip-flops/Sliders
  • 🧥 Warmth: Hoodie & Tracksuit bottoms
  • 🥪 Food: Healthy lunch & carb snacks
  • 💧 Drinks: 2L Water/Squash (No fizzy!)
  • 🎧 Entertainment: Book, music, cards

👪 For the Spectator

  • 🍎 Snacks & Drinks: It's a long day!
  • 🛋️ A Cushion: Seats can be hard.
  • 📖 Programme: Buy at the door.
  • ✍️ Pen & Paper: Record times.

Part 3: When You Arrive

1
Find the Team Look for AST t-shirts. Swimmers must check in with a coach immediately.
2
Get Changed Head to the changing rooms.
3
Go to Team Area Swimmers sit on poolside with coaches. Parents sit in the spectator gallery.
4
The Warm-Up Vital for muscle prep. Listen to the coach's instructions!

Part 4: During the Competition

🦸 The Team Manager

Your Go-To Person! If you have a problem (broken goggles, feel sick, need the toilet) or a question, tell the Team Manager, not the coach.

They will organize the team and tell you exactly when to head to the Marshalling Area.

The Swimmer's Role

Stay with the team, listen to the Team Managers, and cheer for teammates!

Wait for the Team Manager to send you to your race. Have fun and try your best!

The Parent's Role

Cheer loudly! Check they are eating/drinking, but let them stay with the team.

A quick hug is great, then encourage them to return to poolside.

📊 Finding Results

Posted on walls near the pool or via the Meet Mobile app.

Part 5: After Your Last Race

1. The Swim Down Gentle swim to help muscles recover. Very important!
2. Check Out You must tell a coach before leaving.

Useful Information (FAQs)

Who's Who?

Officials (White): Time races & ensure rules are followed.
Marshals: Organise swimmers into lanes.
All are volunteers!

Racing Suits?

No need for expensive tech suits! Junior swimmers just need a snug-fitting normal costume or jammers.

Safety First

Everyone plays a part. Please follow pool rules and listen to meet staff to ensure a safe environment.