Trails Swim Team Opens Registration for 2017 Summer Fun

The Trails Swim Team has opened registration for the 2017 summer swim season, which runs May 15 to July 17, 2017. The team, which took home the North Central Illinois Swim Conference B Championship last July, will be part of the NCISC, competing against Belvidere, Cary, DeKalb, Geneva, Huntley, McGuire Aquatics, Oswego, Rock River Valley and Woodstock. “It will be good for our swimmers,” said returning head coach John Jost. “We will be able to compete at a higher level to challenge competitive swimmers, but also maintain the fun, social aspects of a summer team that supports swimmers of all abilities.” In addition to the conference schedule, the team hosts an invitational meet on June 24, a highlight of the season that attracts several hundred swimmers and up to a dozen teams.

The Trails Swim Team practices and has home meets at the Lions Armstrong Memorial Pool in Algonquin, and is looking for swimmers aged 5 to 18 to participate. Although swimming is considered an individual sport, Trails is structured with an emphasis on the team and support for one another. Summer meets often feel like picnics, with tents and food and summer fun for the entire family. Other highlights include Fun Fridays with a Build Your Own Sundae Day or Poolside Breakfast, crazy hair day and wearing socks in the pool, the awards banquet and a Magic Waters celebration at the end of the season.

Regardless of what skill level swimmers start with, they will improve as the days go, with positive coaching and lots of practice. It’s a confidence boost as kids are rewarded with heat winner tags that decorate their swim bags, as well as placement ribbons and colorful personal bests ribbons—a team favorite. Not only does swimming build self-esteem as they develop new skills, the daily exercise will improve overall fitness. Swimming over the summer is a great opportunity for cross-training, which will prepare young athletes to be better at their sport. “At the same time, it’s an activity that’s fun and social so that being fit is something they can enjoy the rest of their lives,” said coach Jost, who previously swam with Trails for twelve years.

The Trails Swim Team is a tax-exempt, not-for-profit organization that provides a positive atmosphere for physical and emotional development for its members within a competitive swim program.

Registration and season information can be found on the team web site www.trailsswimteam.org or by contacting Brenda at info@trailsswimteam.org.