Questions families ask

Absolutely. New swimmers are welcome to attend a trial practice before committing to the team. It’s a chance to meet the coaches, see how practices are run, and make sure Solara feels like the right fit.

Before your trial, we’ll ask for:

• Swimmer age and current experience

• Primary strokes

• Recent meet times, if available

• Any goals or areas you’d like us to know about

Dues vary by training group based on practice frequency and program level. Membership generally includes regular coached practices, team communications, and access to club activities.

Additional costs may include:

• Meet entry fees

• Team apparel

• Travel expenses for away meets

• Optional private lessons
  We’ll provide a complete breakdown before registration.

Solara primarily serves competitive swimmers from approximately 6 to 18 years old, with placement based more on ability and readiness than age alone. Swimmers progress through development, age-group, and senior training levels as their skills grow.

Yes. Solara is a competitive swim program rather than a learn-to-swim program. New swimmers should be comfortable swimming independently and able to complete multiple lengths of the pool safely.

Swimmers do not need prior competitive experience. Our development group is designed for athletes who are ready to move from lessons or recreational swimming into structured team training.

Please bring:

• Swimsuit

• Goggles

• Swim cap

• Water bottle

• Towel

Depending on the training group, coaches may also recommend fins, paddles, a snorkel, pull buoy, or kickboard. We’ll let you know what equipment is needed before your first regular practice.

Practice frequency depends on training group. Developing swimmers may practice a few times each week, while senior swimmers typically train more frequently.

We believe consistency matters, but we also understand that athletes balance school, family, and other commitments. Coaches will help families understand the recommended attendance for each group.

Swimmers are placed based on a combination of:

• Stroke technique

• Endurance

• Training experience

• Meet experience

• Age and maturity

• Current goals
  

A coach will evaluate new swimmers and recommend the group where they can be challenged while continuing to build confidence.

Competition is an important part of our program, but expectations vary by training group. Developing swimmers may begin with local meets when they’re ready, while senior athletes are expected to compete more regularly.

We want athletes to view meets as an opportunity to test what they’ve learned, race with confidence, and celebrate progress.

We understand that swimmers occasionally miss practice because of illness, school, travel, or family commitments. There is no need to make up every missed session.

For longer absences, families should let the swimmer’s coach know so training can be adjusted when they return.

Yes. Families are welcome to watch from designated spectator areas around the aquatic center. We ask parents to allow coaches and swimmers to remain focused during practice and to save coaching questions for before or after the session.

Getting started is simple:

1. Contact us and tell us a little about your swimmer.

2. Attend a trial practice or evaluation.

3. Receive a training-group recommendation from one of our coaches.

4. Complete registration and select your membership.

5. Join the team and start swimming.
   

If you’re unsure whether your swimmer is ready, reach out. We’re happy to help you figure out the best next step.