Junior Otters/Swim Team Prep
Over the last several years the number of younger swimmers has grown considerably. We are introducing the Junior Otter program to help many of our younger swimmers integrate onto the team in a helpful way. The majority of kids that start in this program will likely move up to the competitive team by the end of the season.
How does it work?
ALL 6 and under swimmers, and any NEW 7-8 year old swimmers will complete a swim assessment the first week of practice (week of May 11th) to determine if Junior Otters/Prep or full swim team membership is the right fit. For full swim team participation, needed skills include swimming 15 yards (6 and under) or 25 yards (7-8) completely independently with their face in the water, floating on their back, ability to get in/out of the pool independently and listening to the coaches. This group will have an opportunity to practice the first week before needing to complete the test at the end of the week. We know if swimmers have not been in the water all winter that they may be a little rusty or nervous to swim, so we want to give ample time for them to warm up. We will then “test” at the end of the week and let parents know which group is the best fit for your swimmer. Please remember that they can retest throughout the season and move up when they are ready.
Parents should register all swimmers for swim team on the Wood Valley Member Portal. There is not a separate registration for Junior Otters.
