It's almost time to dive back in, Sea Devils! We are just over 3 weeks from the start of the summer swim season. Here are 5 things you can do to get ready! 

1. Purchase and Label Your Equipment. Make sure you have fins and goggles ready for the first day of practice! Fins (be sure to buy long fins!) can be purchased at any local swim/sporting goods store (Dick’s Sporting Goods, Riptide Swim Shop, etc.) or online at Walmart, Amazon, or SwimOutlet.com. Be sure to use a Sharpie or brightly colored duct tape to label all your equipment! 
2. Download the Meet Schedule. Check out this summer’s meet schedule, and jot down the locations of this season’s meets. Time Trials are early this year – May 30th!!! Similar to last year, there is no regular dual meet on July 4th, but we will participate in the Stars & Stripes Invitational, so keep your eyes peeled for more information on this special invite-only event! 
   • 5/30/2026: Time Trials @ HOME 
   • 6/6/2026: Stonewall @ HOME
   • 6/13/2026: Brookside @ HOME 
   • 6/20/2026: @ Urbanna 
   • 6/27/2026: Braemar @ HOME 
   • 7/4/2026: Stars & Stripes - Invitational (invite only)
   • 7/11/2026: @ Ben Lomond 
   • 7/18/2026: @ Lake Ridge 
• 7/25/2026: Divisionals @ HOME 
3. Train to be a Stroke & Turn Judge. Becoming a Stroke & Turn Judge is a great way to learn more about swimming and have a front-row view of the action (plus, a voucher for a free lunch!)! Our league provides the initial training, which can be done in the comfort of your home. You then receive on-the-job training throughout the summer from our seasoned judges who can assist you throughout the season and during the meets. This position can seem intimidating and scary, but we promise it is not! Please reach out to VOSD officials coordinator Ben Bruckart if you are interested in officiating this season! There will be a Q&A Official/Judge meeting held by the league on May 26th & June 3rd (virtually), so please reach out with your interest before then to ensure you have enough time to watch the training videos and attend one of the sessions. 
4. Download the SwimTopia Mobile App. All team and meet operations will go through SwimTopia! Download SwimTopia Mobile from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Be sure to enable notifications to receive alerts for weather-related delays and cancellations, live meet event tracking, and other time-sensitive information! 
5. Read Our Swim Meet 101. New to summer swim? Just want more information? Check out our Swim Meet 101 page for all you need to know about the season! 

Get excited!!! This is going to be a great summer! Let the countdown begin! 

Go Sea Devils!