What is synchronized swimming?
Synchronized Swimming combines the strength and endurance of a speed swimmer or water polo player, the coordination and flexibility of a gymnast and the grace of a dancer into one beautiful, powerful sport that is held in DEEP WATER. At no time do the swimmers touch the bottom of the pool. All movements are designed and executed to keep the swimmer afloat while performing various strength and visual moves in unison with small routine and or team routine partners. Synchronized swimming has adopted the beautiful costumes of the dance world along with music that helps the swimmers coordinate and express their efforts with their team mates.
Where do you practice?
Is my child too young?
We have members as young as 5-6. Members do need to be able to swim a lap and tread water.
Do athletes have to "try out " before joining NVN?
No, we don't turn anyone away as long as they can safely practice. Assignments to routines is the coaches decision.
Do you have boys on the team?
We have had boys on the team in the past and welcome all new members whether they are boys or girls.
Can my child come to a few practices to see if (s)he likes it?
Absolutley, please contact us first so we can arrange for a coach to work with your child.
How are the athletes normally grouped?
Athletes are grouped first by age, and then by ability.
Who do you compete against?
This depends on the age and ability level of the swimmer. Our association includes several teams
from Virginia and Maryland. We routinely send qualifying teams to regional and national level meets.
How many practices are there per week?
Beginning athletes normally practice twice a week, more advanced swimmers practice 3 or 4 times a week.
How long are the practices?
Practices run for several hours, this includes streching and warm ups, lots of pool time, and land drills.
What time are the practices?
Practices are in the evening during the week and early Saturday morning.
Who are the coaches?
NVN coaches are dedicated experienced professionals, please see the coaches page for more details.
How long is the season?
Our season runs from mid September through June.
How long of a commitment must we make?
We expect team members to commit to the entire season, introductory sessions are held in September and a summer program is also offered.
What are the costs?
Seasonal fees are broken up into monthly payments and start at $110/month for the younger athletes. Costs can become significant as the athletes advance (travel, equipment, attire, coaching, pool time, etc...), we do our best to raise funds to keep the participation fees as low as possible. Travel costs and equipment costs are minimized by aggressively searching for the best travel arrangements and lodging and by buying equipment in bulk. The team also maintains a wardrobe closet so that stylized swimsuits and head pieces can be reused. A detailed cost estimate is available from our membership coordinator (tellmemore@nvnsynchro.com).
What kind of equipment is needed?
Practice suits, nose clips, team logo t-shirts and shorts and team sweat suits (for older swimmers) are all items easily purchased through the team equipment manager. Competiton suits and headpieces can be pulled from the costume closet or purchased (decisions made on a routine by routine basis).
Are parents expected to volunteer?
Parents are needed to assist when our team hosts "home" meets and at our annual June watershow/recital. Parents are also expected and needed to take on the responsibilities of running the organization - travel coordinator, team parent, accounting, web page, community relations, year book, fund raising etc ....
Do colleges provide synchronized swimming scholarships?
Further Information, and information regarding collegiate programs can be found at www.usasynchro.org.
