Forest Ridge

Estimated Timeline

• Swim meets typically run from 6:00–9:00 p.m.
• Warm-ups begin at 5:00 p.m. for home meets and 5:30 p.m. for away meets

Meet Structure

• Each meet consists of 80 events
  • Odd-numbered events: Girls
  • Even-numbered events: Boys
• Meets are divided into two sessions:
  • Session 1 (Events 1–40)
  • Session 2 (Events 41–80)
• There is usually a 15-minute break between sessions

Understanding Event Lists

• Coaches will post event lists near the team area (often on a fence or wall).
• You can also check entries using the Meet Mobile app or email.
• Find your child’s group (age and gender), such as 8 & Under Boys or 9–10 Girls.
• Each listing includes:
  • Swimmer’s name
  • Event numbers
  • Stroke (freestyle, backstroke, etc.)
  • Heat and lane number

👉 Know when and where your swimmer is competing!

Helpful Tips for Meet Night

Write Events on Swimmer’s Arm

• Use a waterproof marker (like a Sharpie) to write event numbers on your swimmer’s arm.
• Writing the stroke is optional.
• Parents may also want to keep a written list—or even write it on their own arm!

Getting to the Right Place

• Pay attention to how the meet is progressing—announcements can be hard to hear.
• Many pools display the current event number.
• Swimmers should report to their lane or staging area several events early.
• At home meets, the Clerk of Course is typically located near the baby pool.
• Swimmers should:
  • Check in with the Clerk of Course or lane timer
  • Line up by heat (e.g., Heat 1, 2, or 3)
  • Be ready when their event is called

After-Meet Fun

• Coaches often organize optional team outings after meets to places like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, or Taco Bell.
• These gatherings are a great way to build team spirit!

Questions?

• Don’t hesitate to ask another parent or swimmer for help—many are happy to guide you.
• Coaches are usually seated near the fence by the baby pool at home meets and are available for questions.

What to Bring

• Team swimsuit or competition-style suit
• Goggles (plus an extra pair)
• Swim cap
• Towels and a change of clothes
• Snacks and drinks (concessions are usually available for purchase)
• Permanent marker/pen for writing events
• Pen and paper for parents to keep track of events

Be prepared, stay organized, and most importantly—have fun cheering on your swimmer!