GET INVOLVED, "VOLUNTEERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE"
Be a backbone parent
Volunteers in swimming keep the sport afloat
To get involved click here

 

"Why in the world did they do it that way?" "I am glad that my son /daughter is swimming, but swim meets sure do get LONG when you're just SITTING THERE."          Do you see yourself in either of these statements? If so, it's time for you to get involved in the Bradford Swim Club Swim Team.          The BSC Parents Swim Team Committee is a volunteer group of concerned parents who have no special talents when it comes to swimming,  except a real concern for the summer swimmer.          This volunteer idea is very important in this age of the two-career families, split marriages and long distance relationships.  It is more difficult than ever for people to make a commitment to help a volunteer organization, but without that help, a volunteer organization cannot continue to function.   HOW TO GET INVOLVED?             You can provide you special skills in some way to the betterment of your local team.  Whatever your role, know it is a vital one.           What type of help does the swim team need?  Perhaps someone could help organize the beginning of the season registration campaign. This should be a big job contained within a short period of time. Once the season begins, the job is over.           New members mean more families to get involved in the program, more athletes to support the coaching staff and more swimmers to represent your club at meets.  New members mean more parents and more volunteers like yourself.          How about heading the "DUMP QUESTIONS COMMITTEE," one job that is vital to the retention of the team.  The new members that join your team are sure to have numerous questions.  These may include topics such as how the swim team operates, what goes on at meets and what equipment their kids should have. You know the questions that start "I'm new and this may be a dumb question, but......"          New members may feel awkward asking the Coach.  The "DUMB QUESTION COMMITTEE" can address these issues without making anyone feel out of place.  You can even put together a small handout if writing is a talent you possess! AH, WRITING - THAT SOUNDS GOOD!          Your team could probably use more publicity in local papers or radio stations.  Not only will this boost the self-esteem of the featured swimmer, but it is great publicity for the team.          Get to know your local sports writer or editor or local radio sports person.  Ask about deadlines and story interest.  Next talk to the local coach about stories involving kids on the team and upcoming competitions.  Is an exciting rematch coming up?  Is someone close to breaking a record?  Is there a great comeback story?  Write them up and forward them with a black and white photo to you newfound contacts. Don't get upset if the stories are delayed or shortened.  Enjoy the coverage that you are able to get and keep plugging away!   THE PEOPLE IN WHITE           No swim meet could ever get off the ground without dedicated, qualified officials at every level of competition.  Everyone including the timers, scoring table, runners, stroke and turn people, and referee is critical to the conduct of the meet.  Many officials comment that because of their involvement, meets are much more interesting. The opportunity to interact and socialize with other parents in the area keeps it fun.   TEAM OPERATIONS            Generally a board of directors, consisting of at least a secretary, vice-president and president, observes team operations.  The team  leadership changes as swimmers leave the team or become involved in other activities.  Your good ideas and willingness to contribute are all you need to get started.