Developmental Team FAQ
Who can participate in the Developmental Team?
Swimmers ages 5 and up who are coachable, comfortable, and independent in the water for 20-30 minutes but are not yet able to swim the required 25 meters to join the competitive team.
Final placement in the developmental program is at the coaches' discretion. Generally, coaches look for swimmers who:
- Can jump into the pool without hesitation when asked.
- Make steady progress in the water for about 10-15 meters (half the pool) while kicking and using their arms.
The minimum age is 5, but readiness varies—some swimmers are ready at 5, while others may need to be 7 or 8 before they’re comfortable and independent in the water for the duration of practice. Our top priority is safety.
Good to know: You do not need to be a Montclair resident or a Southlake Recreation Association member to swim with the Seahawks!
How do I sign up for the Developmental Team?
There is an evaluation process for the developmental team. Simply register your swimmer and attend evaluation night. Coaches will assess your swimmer’s readiness and assign them to the appropriate group. Coaches final say over the evaluation process.
If you’re unsure, go ahead and register your swimmer, selecting “pay by check” during registration. Bring them to evaluation night at the pool on May 27, where coaches will provide direct feedback. The week before evaluations, you'll receive a form to sign up for a time slot. There’s no obligation—this is just an opportunity to see if the developmental team is the right fit.
Tip: Get your swimmer in the pool as much as possible before evaluation night to build confidence and comfort in the water.
My child has attended Swim Kids—will they be ready?
Swim Kids is a great program, but time spent there doesn’t necessarily determine readiness for the developmental team. Readiness depends on comfort, confidence, and independence in the water.
When do developmental swimmers practice?
Check the 2025 Calendar for specific dates and times.
Typically, the developmental team practices three mornings a week for 20-30 minutes, either after or alongside the 8 & under practice. Most swimmers transition to the competitive team within 3-5 weeks, once they can swim the length of the pool unassisted.
Once on the competitive team, they will:
- Practice five days a week with the 8 & under group.
- Have the opportunity to compete in meets. Ideally, they participate in at least three of the last seven meets, swimming freestyle and possibly backstroke events.
Where does practice take place?
Southlake Recreation Association
5070 Higgins Drive, Montclair
Questions?
Let us know! Feel free to share this information with others—kids are often more excited to join when they know friends will be there!
