News

• To be added to the SMSC email list please contact Dana Gossert, you will then be added to receive the "SMSC News" & other team announcement
• Current Repeating items
  
  Meet Schedule
  Our meet with NYAC has been dropped from the schedule
  Tutoring
  Once again this winter, Steven Gossert has offered to provide tutoring for any swimmers that may need help with school.  If you are interested, please contact either Steven (stgswims@comcast.net) or myself.
   

Feb. 20th, 2010

Congratulations SMSC swimmers on completing a perfect regular season today with a victory over Mechanicsburg.  The final score was SMSC 724 Mech 214.  And best of all the coaches got wet after the meet.
Coach Victor has the improved times and will have those at practice this week.

Next up is divisionals and All Stars.  We have 78 of our swimmers registered for divisionals.  If you are curious where you stack up in your events, the psych sheets should be up on our website in the next day or two.

Divisionals are this Saturday at our pool with the early session warm ups at 8 AM (8&U and 9-10s) and afternoon warmups at noon (all others).  Please plan to arrive early to get settled in and checked in.  SMSC will also be receiving the 2A championship banner prior to each session starting. 

Concessions for divisionals.  Barb will be posting the sign up sheet for divisionals very soon at http://www.timetosignup.com/smscsharks/   please visit the site and sign up for something. 

Remember, volunteers are admitted free others are $2 for adults, $1 for students, and meet programs are $3.

We will be looking for lots of help towards the end of the week to get ready for this event so if you are at the pool, please help out if you are able.

All Stars are 2/28 at CV and you must qualify based on your time from divisionals on Saturday.  Coaches will let you know if you qualify and what time and where to be on Sunday.

The SMSC team party is the following week 3/7 at the pool/gym and the sign up sheet for food items will be posted by Barb as well.  Family members are welcome and a sign up sheet for a total count should be posted at the pool soon.

Feb 15th, 2010

Congratulations SMSC swimmers on another dual meet victory yesterday at Waynesboro. The final score was SMSC 585.5 and WAY 469.5.  This bring our overall record this season to 5-0 with one meet remaining this Saturday with Mechanicsburg. 

We do not swim in meter pools very often and the swimmers did a fantastic job.  There were over 170 new/improved meter times and there were 6 different SMSC meter records broken at the meet with one record being broken by multiple swimmers.  Congratulations to these swimmers as well as those that have broken yard records this season as well.  The new record holders will be recognized at the end of season team party coming up on March 7th.

For this week, we will practice every day from 6-8 PM barring any weather events.

Please sign up for the meet on Saturday with Mechanicsburg by Wed so Coach Victor can get the lineup finalized.

Divisional entries are due to Coach Victor ASAP as he needs to have those entered and turned in by Saturday.

Divisional and All Star T shirt orders are due today.  Please email me any All Star t shirt orders as I need to send the final order in by 6 PM today.  Divisional orders can be turned in at practice tonight.

Remember, we will need volunteers to help at Saturday's home meet and don't forget your concession items.

Look for lots of upcoming information on divisionals as we will be needing lots of help in making this a successful event.
 

Jan. 31st 2010

Congratulations SMSC on your hard swum victory over Carlisle YMCA today.  The final score was SMSC 597 Carlisle 494.  SMSC has 156 improved/new times which are posted at the pool, way to go Sharks.

You are now just one victory away from a 4th consecutive undefeated divisional title.  If you can beat Waynesboro on Feb 14th that will clinch the championship.  Remember, if you do win the title, Coaches Victor and Ron will be going in the pool after our last meet at home with Mechanicsburg on Feb 20th. Of course, they may need some help or persuasion from all of you. :)  

Thanks to everyone that helped out with running today's meet.  It went very smoothly and I was impressed with how early we were done considering the number of exhibition swims.  Much of that credit belongs to the parent volunteers that line kids up, time, officiate, etc.  Thank you all.

Remember to sign up for the Waynesboro meet this week so Victor can start the lineup.

Please note, there are home HS meets on Tuesday and Thursday this week, so there will be no practice this nights.  Feel free to come on a different night if you are able.  These are the last 2 HS home meets and both the girls and boys are poised to win their conference championship so come out and cheer them on if you like. Tuesday is East Penn at 4 PM and Thursday Mechanicsburg at 6 PM.

Also,  please pay attention for upcoming Divisionals information.  The sign up sheets for divisional events should be posted at the pool soon, if they are not already.  Every swimmer who competes in 3 of our dual meets is eligible for divisionals.  At divisionals, you can compete in a maximum of 3 events.  Please see the coaches if you have any questions about divisionals.

In addition to signing up for divisional events, there will be an order for divisional t shirts and lots of volunteers needed to help make Divisionals successful.  I know we can all pitch in and make this an event to be proud of.

Jan. 27th 2010

Remember your concession items for our meet this Saturday with Carlisle.  SMSC warm ups at 8 AM please arrive early to get situated.  Carlisle is a fairly large team so the meet will likely go to about 1 PM.

The Waynesboro meet has been confirmed for Feb 14th SMSC warm ups at 12:30 with a 1 PM start at Waynesboro.  Details to follow with directions etc.

The team gift for this season has been choosen and it is a Holloway Tournament bag.  The bag will be purple/black/white and will come with SMSC and the silhouette swimmer embroidered on the front.  If you would like your swimmer(s)' bag personalized with their name, there will be a $3 fee to cover the cost of that embroidery.  Please write down what you would like on the bag and turn it in with payment to Brenda Hallett or myself.  No bags will be personalized without payment.  These bags will be distributed at the end of season team party in March.

Jan. 22nd 2010

Monday Jan 25th, there will be a Divisionals committee meeting at 6 PM.  Details to be discussed include completing t-shirt design, preparing packet for distribution to teams, etc.  If you are on one of Dale's divisional committees, please plan to attend.

Tuesday Jan 26th, there will be no practice due to a HS meet with Shippensburg.  Please plan to come on another night if your schedule allows. (Practice at regular times all other days)

Saturday, SMSC is hosting Carlisle YMCA.  This will likely be one of our toughest meets of the season and we need everyone that is available to attend.  Coach Victor is already working on the line up so please be sure you have marked you availability for this meet.  This is a home meet, so be sure to bring your concession items (non-perishable items can be delivered Friday night)  SMSC will warm up at 8 AM be sure to arrive early to get settled and checked in.  Remember, Lisa will need volunteers to help run the meet and is always willing to train new parents.

Also, Waynesboro has gotten back to us with another date for the make up meet due to the snowstorm.  The make up meet is now scheduled for Sunday Feb 14th.  I am still waiting on confirmation of the start time etc.  As a result of this date, SMSC will not be participating in the WSY Valentine Invitational.  We are aware that it is Valentines Day, but we are quickly running out of weekends and it has been difficult to pin Waynesboro down to a date.  Apologies in advance for any inconveniences.


Please look for divisional sign up sheets to be posted sometime soon at the pool.  For divisionals, each swimmer may swim in 3 total events in any combination of individual and relay events.  To be eligible for divisionals, you need to have participated in at least 3 dual meets during the season.  On the sign up sheet, please indicate your top 3 event choices numbered 1-3 and mark if you would be interested in a relay and available for All-Stars.  If you are selected for a relay, you will be removed from your choice 3 individual event.  Any questions on the process or what events might suit you best, please see Coach Victor.
 

Jan. 17th 2010

Congratulations to the SMSC swimmers for their victory over the Mercersburg Swim Club this past Saturday. We are now 3-0 with 3 meets to go yet this season.  SMSC won by a final score of 687 to 361.  In addition, there were over 150 new/improved times achieved by SMSC swimmers which will be posted at the pool during this week.  Also, ribbons should be in your folders for pick up.

Thank you to all the parents who volunteered to make the meet a success, we could not do these meets without your help and I am always impressed with how smooth our meets seem to go compared to some others.  Again, that credit belongs to those of you that participate to make our meets successful.

This upcoming week there will be no practice on Tuesday Jan 19th due to a home HS meet with Northern that starts at 6 PM.  If you like, come out and cheer on the HS team in what should be a very good meet.

This upcoming weekend we do not have any scheduled meets or activities.  The tentative reschedule of the Waynesboro meet for 1/24 has fallen through and I currently do not know when it will be made up.  I have been in contact with the Waynesboro coach and have not gotten any positive feedback on any of our suggested dates.  Please stay tuned for any future emails on this subject as it may be kind of last minute due to factors out of my control.

Our next scheduled meet is Jan 30th at home against the Carlisle YMCA.  This should prove to be our most challenging meet of the season and look forward to everyone participating that is available.  More information on that next week.

Remember: Spirtwear orders are due to Brenda Hallett by Wed 1/20 in order for us to receive the items before divisionals.
 

Jan. 11th 2010

Congratulations to the swimmers for their victory on Saturday at EPAC.  I do not have the exact score, but we won by about 150 points.  Coach Victor will have improved times and results available this week.  Ribbons should be in the ribbon folders shortly as well.

Highlights for this week:

Parents Meeting tonight 1/11 at 6:10 PM in the graphic arts room, just down the hall from the pool.  Please plan to attend as we will be covering many important items regarding end of season activities and divisionals.  Dale Lay has asked that divisionals volunteers please try to attend this evenings meeting.

Our first home meet of the season is this week with Mercersburg coming to SMSC.  SMSC will warm up at 8 AM with Mercersburg warming up at 8:30 AM and the meet to start at 9 AM.  Remember, we need plenty of volunteers to run the meet and do not forget your concession item(s).  If you have questions about concessions, please contact Barb Brinton or look at the on line sign up sheets.

Remember to let Coach Victor know about your status for Saturday so he can make an accurate lineup.

A couple of quick notes in case you do not make it to the parents meeting,  the coaches and team moms ask that you please check with them before leaving a swim meet as there are sometimes relay changes and they need to know if others are available to fill in if needed.  Secondly, some team suits have still not been picked up or paid for please take care of this as soon as possible.
 

Jan. 4th 2010

Hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday and best wishes for a great 2010.

Our first meet of the new year is this Saturday at East Pennsboro. SMSC warmups are at 8:30 with the meet to start at 9 AM.  Please be sure to sign up or let Coach Victor know if you are planning to attend so that he can get an accurate lineup put together.
Directions to EPAC are Take I-81 to the Enola exit (Rt 15 South).  At the first red light (Valley Rd) turn right. Turn left onto Enola Drive and then the first right into the school driveway. Once in the driveway go left up the hill and park around the back of the Middle School.  And are also on our team website.
Other notes of interest:
There will be a SMSC parents meeting on Monday Jan 11th at 6:10 PM in the Graphic Arts room just down from the pool.  We will be discussing team gifts, upcoming home meets, divisionals, etc.  I hope many of you can attend.
The canceled Waynesboro meet is tentatively re-scheduled for Sunday Jan 24th in the afternoon.  I am waiting for confirmation of the details and will pass those along when I get them. Thanks to everyone that provided their feedback on the dates for this meet.
If you are available, please volunteer to help at the EPAC meet.
 

Dec. 28th 2009

I hope everyone had a joyous Christmas holiday.
This week the practice schedule is Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 6-8 with no practice on Thursday and Friday for New Years Eve and Day.
Our next meet is Jan 9th at EPAC, please be sure to sign up by Jan 5th so Victor can get the lineup together.  I will send directions and times next week.
Entries for the Snowflake Splash invitational are due by 12/29.  You can email me or sign up at the pool.  Additional information on the invitational was sent in a separate email last week.
Have a Happy New Year and if you have any questions, please let me know.

Dec. 21st 2009

Modified practice schedule this week:
Monday: Regular practice
Tuesday: No Practice (1st HS home meet)
Wednesday: SMSC Holiday Party (6-8)
Thursday and Friday: No Practice (Merry Christmas)
The following week, there will be regular practice from 6-8 on Monday, Tues, Wed.  No practice Thursday or Friday (Happy New Year)
When the Waynesboro meet is rescheduled, an email will be sent out letting you know the details.
We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Joyous New Year.

Dec. 14th 2009

Meet  and Sign Ups
Our next meet is this Saturday Dec 19th at Waynesboro .  Please sign up by Wed. on the sheet at the pool so the coaches can begin making an accurate lineup.  Waynesboro is traditionally a close meet and should be a good competition.  For HS swimmers that need a ride to Waynesboro following the morning meet against Palmayra, please let me know and I will try to connect you up with others that are making the trip.
The current start time for the meet is 1 PM with SMSC to warm up at 12:30.  This is possibly subject to change so look for any time change notices later in the week.
The Waynesboro YMCA is located at 810 East Main St Waynesboro PA 17268.  Driving directions are 81 South to PA-16/Greencastle/Waynesboro Exit # 5, turn left off exit onto PA-16/Buchanan Trl E toward Waynesboro.  Follow PA-16 until you enter into Waynesboro, approx 8-9 miles, you will go through center of town and then you will see a K-mart on your Rt about a 1/4 mile on Rt will be the YMCA.  Parking is available at the school across the street if the YMCA parking lot is full.
Remember, we need parent volunteers to help run the meet.

Practice Schedule
Practice will be as regularly scheduled this week, with the exception of Tuesday.  On Tuesday, it will be Sandsharks only from 6-7 PM due to the holiday choral concert at the high school later that evening. 
SMSC Christmas/Holiday Team Celebration   
On Wed 12/23, during practice, SMSC will be having it annual holiday party.  SMSC Parents Association will be providing pizza for the swimmers and others attending.  I will be posting a sign up sheet at the pool for a few items like drinks, plates, napkins, cookies etc. 
Also, if you are planning on attending, could you please email me back with a count of those attending so we order the appropriate amount of pizza.  Family and siblings are welcome.  Practice that night will consist of fun and games mostly.  I hope you can come out and join in the festivities.
We will need several parent volunteers to stay afterward and help clean up as well.  So any help in that area is always appreciated.

Concessions
Our first home meet is a little over a month away and Barb has posted the sign up sheets for the concession stand.  They are filling up, but some items are still needed.  If you have not signed up, please take a moment to visit the website and choose an item.   Question should be directed to Barb Brinton
http://www.timetosignup.com/smscsharks/signupsheet.php?id=407

Looking ahead to the holiday season, there will be no practice on 12/24, 12/25, 12/31, and 1/1.  We will practice the other days at the regular times.  We know everyone has hectic schedules over the holidays so please come to the practices you can.  Our next meet after the holidays is 1/9 at East Pennsboro.

Lost and Found:  A black Nintendo DS was lost by one of our swimmers at the BSAC meet.  If you locate this item, please let me know so we can return it.

Dec. 7th, 2009

Congratulations to the SMSC swimmer for starting off the season with a win over Big Spring.  The final score was 672 to 403. All the swimmers did a fantastic job and I will get the improved time report ran later this week and posted at the pool.  Swimmers can pick up their ribbons at the pool in the ribbon folder box.

Lost and Found:  A black Nintendo DS was lost by one of our swimmers at the BSAC meet.  If you locate this item, please let me know so we can return it.

Fund raising
The sub/sandwich orders will be delivered to the pool area this Wed Dec 9th at approximately 6:30 PM.  For those that have orders, please plan to pick them up at that time. SMSC should clear just over $1000 to help out with club expenses.  Thanks to all that participated and a great big thanks to Emily Thompson, our top seller with 88 units.

Team Pictures
SMSC Team pictures are scheduled for this Thursday Dec 10th starting at 6 PM.  Pictures order forms are available at the pool.  Please plan to arrive promptly so this can proceed as smoothly as possible. 

Meet Sign Ups
Our next meet is scheduled for Dec 19th at Waynesboro with a start time of 1 PM. Warm ups will be a 12:30 PM.  Please sign up on the sheet at the pool so the coaches can begin making an accurate lineup.  I will send directions and any additional information with next week's newsletter.
 

Nov. 30th, 2009

This week is our first dual meet of the season at Big Spring.  Please sign up on the sheet at the pool so the coaches can make an accurate lineup.  It is very important especially for relays to know who is going to be attending the meet. SMSC will have warmups at 8:30 AM, please plan to arrive by 8:15 to get settled and check in.  The meet will start at 9 AM.  Remember to bring a blanket or extra towel to sit on and a sweatshirt to wear between events.  Directions to the Big Spring High School pool are below.  As you have seen in a seperate email, Lisa Webber is looking for meet volunteers, we need to provide 8 timers for each half of the meet as well as officials, ribbon writer, and scoring table help if needed so please be sure to help out.

Fund raising
Order forms for the sub/sandwich fundraiser are due today 11/30.  I will be at the pool throughout practice this evening to collect the forms.  The orders will be delivered to the pool on Dec 9th at 6:30 PM.

Thank you for those who have already turned in their orders.  This fundraiser helps the team with the purchase of ribbons, supplies, and end of season gifts.

Divisionals
As you know SMSC has been selected as the divisional host this season for 2A championships.  Dale Lay is heading up this committee and looking for volunteers, please respond to his email and help us make this event successful.

Nov. 20th, 2009

Tonight Friday Nov 20th is the last night to order a team suit if you would like to get one this season. Try on suits will be available before practice this evening.

Practice for Thanksgiving week:
There will be practice on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday next week and no practice on Thursday and Friday in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.  On Tuesday and Wed, at practice this week we will be having Time Trials as part of practice.  Please plan to attend one of these two nights so the coaches can get base line times for the upcoming season.

Fund raising
All of you should have received the order forms for the SMSC sub and sandwich sale.  Orders are due back to me by 11/30.  The orders will be delivered to the pool on Dec 9th at 6:30 PM.
If I am not at the pool when you drop off your order form(s), I have a folder in a black file folder box located by the ribbon boxes and you can place the forms in there and I will pick them up.  If you did not receive the order forms or fundraiser information, please let me know and I will forward it.
Thank you for those who have already turned in their orders.  This fundraiser helps the team with the purchase of ribbons, supplies, and end of season gifts.

Team Pictures
SMSC Team pictures are scheduled for Thursday Dec 10th starting at 6 PM.  Pictures order forms will be available starting next week at the pool.

Nov. 16th, 2009

Stroke and Turn Official Clinics
If you are interested in being a stroke and turn officials for swim meets this season, you must attend a CPAL stroke and turn officials clinic unless you already have PIAA or USS certification.  For those of you interested in attending on of these clinics, here are the remaining dates that are being offered:, 11//21 at SMSC (Noon), and 11/24 at Mechanicsburg (7 PM).  The clinics usually are about 2 hours long and consist of the instructor explaining the various strokes and then having swimmers demonstrate proper and improper technique so you know what to look for.  If you are interested in attending one of these clinics, please let me know which one as I need to let the instructor know how many to expect.  Even if you have a slight interest in officiating, please plan to attend a clinic so that you can try it out.  The SMSC parents that have been doing this for a few seasons will be happy to work with new officials throughout the season.    Note the time change for the SMSC clinic from 1 PM to noon due to a pool conflict.

For those of you with PIAA or USS certification, please let me know so I can add you to the list of officials for the league.

Meet Sign Ups
I hope to have the meet sign up form by the end of this week so you can begin signing up for the swim meets this season, it will be posted in the hallway on the bulletin board.
 

Nov. 9th, 2009

Committee Chairs:
Concessions - Barb Brinton  (look for more information closer on what you can sign up to provide for the concession stand)
Meet Director - Lisa Webber (She will be looking for lots of volunteers to help our meets run smoothly)
Fundraising - Dana Gossert (look for a seperate email this week about the sub sale)
Divisionals - Dale Lay 
Team Party - Rita Cawley
Team Gift - Brenda Hallett
Team Pictures - Auralia Whiting

Stroke and Turn Official Clinics
If you are interested in being a stroke and turn officials for swim meets this season, you must attend a CPAL stroke and turn officials clinic unless you already have PIAA or USS certification.  For those of you interested in attending on of these clinics, here are the dates that I have 11/13 at Hershey (6 PM), 11/14 at Big Spring (9 AM), 11//21 at SMSC (1 PM), and 11/24 at Mechanicsburg (7 PM).  The clinics usually are about 2 hours long and consist of the instructor explaining the various strokes and then having swimmers demonstrate proper and improper technique so you know what to look for.  If you are interested in attending one of these clinics, please let me know which one as I need to let the instructor know how many to expect.  Even if you have a slight interest in officiating, please plan to attend a clinic so that you can try it out.  The SMSC parents that have been doing this for a few seasons will be happy to work with new officials throughout the season. 

For those of you with PIAA or USS certification, please let me know so I can add you to the list of officials for the league.

Team Suits
SMSC team suits will be available for try on and orders the week of Nov 16th.  Teams suits are not required for meet participation.  Please see Tina Otto for any questions.

Meet Schedule
Our meet with NYAC has been dropped from the schedule

Tutoring
Once again this winter, Steven Gossert has offered to provide tutoring for any swimmers that may need help with school.  If you are interested, please contact either Steven (stgswims@comcast.net) or myself.

Team Time Trials
The coaches will conduct some time trials on 11/24 and 25.  This will give them baseline times for the season and give us a chance the make sure all the equipment is working as well.
 

Oct 31st, 2009

Happy Halloween!!!

Just a couple of quick SMSC reminders for the upcoming week:

We are still taking orders for practice suits yet at the beginning of this week. Please see Elaine, Tina, or myself at the pool if you have questions or would like to order.

The first SMSC Parent's association meeting will be this Thursday Nov 5th in the Graphic Arts Classroom just down the hall from the pool.  The meeting will start at 6 PM and should last just over one hour.  We will be covering some basic information for new parents/swimmers, looking for committee chairpersons, and discussing other pertinent items.  Please plan to attend as it is everyone's participation that helps make SMSC successful.

If you have not done so, please register your swimmer(s) with SM Parks and Rec.  I need to start finalizing the roster to turn into the league and your cooperation is appreciated.  You can register by calling the Parks and Rec office at 258-4441, in person at the parks and rec office, or we have registration materials at the pool as well.

Lastly, there is no practice this Friday Nov 6th due the final home football game this season.
 

Oct 27th, 2009

Just a reminder that there will be no practice on Thursday due to Trick or Treat.

If you are interested in ordering practice suits for your swimmers, we are taking orders throughout this week for delivery in early November. 
These are not the team suits, team suit try ons/orders will be in the middle of November.

Registration deadline is fast approaching, if you have not done so please register with Park and Rec as soon as possible.

Upcoming events,
SMSC Parents Meeting Thursday Nov 5th at 6 PM
No Practice Friday Nov 7th due to home football game.
Entries for the NYAC Nailor Invitational are due this Friday 10-30.  Information is posted on the bulletin board at the pool
 

Oct 13th, 2009

Just a friendly reminder that SMSC practice start next Monday 10-19-09 at 6 PM.  If you are planning to swim this winter, please take a moment and register with Parks and Rec this week if you are able.

We are looking forward to seeing many of you back competing with SMSC this winter as we go for our 4th consecutive division title.

Practice the first week will be New swimmer from 6-7 PM along with returning Sand, Tiger, and Hammerhead levels.

Returning SMSC swimmers should plan on practicing from 7-8 PM the first week, with the exception of returning sandsharks who would practice from 6-7 the first week.

Look forward to seeing you at the pool,

July 06, 2009

We have a busy week upcoming for SMSC. We have home swim meets on Thursday and Saturday.

Thursday we are swimming Hampden Aquatic Club with SMSC warm ups at 5 PM with the meet starting at 6 PM.

Saturday we are swimming Lion Aquatic with SMSC warm ups at 8 AM with the meet starting at 9 AM.

Please be sure to let Coach Victor know of your availability for both meets as soon as possible. We have the opportunity to 4-0 by the weekend so good luck swimmers.
Remember to bring your concession items for both meets as we need the donations to make the concessions stand a success.

Lisa Webber will need parent volunteers for both meets and sent a seperate email looking for those so please help out if you are able.

I sent out a divisional T-shirt order email and need the orders later this week to submit the team order on time.
Swimmers who are eligible and attending divisionals need to sign up for their 3 events on the sheets on the bulliten board if you have any questions about this, please see a coach at the pool.
Championship meets (divisionals, all stars and mid caps) are approaching fast so please pay attention for emails related to those events.

And lastly, we need to have one more parents meeting before the season is over. The meeting will be this Friday July 10th at 6:10 PM in the hallway area near the pool (unless I can get classroom access). Topics of discussion will include: End of season team party, team gift, coaches gifts, board of officer elections, championship meets, etc. I expect it to be about 1/2 hour in length. Please plan to attend if you are available as your involvement is what makes SMSC a successful team.

On the subject of elections, I believe the current slate of officers are all willing to return for another season but I am actively looking for a replacement for president as Steven only has 2 years left swimming for SMSC. So if you might be interested, next year would be a good year to shadow and learn the ropes.

June 27, 2009

Congratulations SMSC Sharks on your second dual meet victory of the season over a strong Gettysburg team. The final score was SMSC 470 GETY 344.

Our next dual meets are both home with Hampden on Thursday July 9th and Lion Aquatic on Saturday July 11th. Both of these teams are a little bigger and will provide a strong challenge and we hope to have as many of you there as possible. Be sure to sign up as soon as possible so coaches can work on the line ups for both meets. Remember to sign up for concession items at http://www.timetosignup.com/smscsharks if you have not done so already. With the one meet being in the evening, the menu underwent some changes so please be sure to look at what is available and sign up.

There will be no evening practice this coming Friday July 3rd and we hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable 4th of July holiday weekend.

There are several invitaional meets this week that SMSC swimmers are participating in and good luck to all of them.

Divisionals are just around the corner as well, and while we do not yet have any offical information yet, it is time to start thinking about what events you would like to swim. Each swimmer may participate in up to 3 events at divisionals. A sheet will be posted for you to indicate your top 3 choices for individual events and whether you would like to do a relay. If selected for a relay, you will not swim in your third choice event. Remember, you have to participated in 3 of our 5 dual meets to be eligible. If you have any questions about that, please let a coach or myself know.

As divisional and all star meet infomation is available, I will pass it along.
 

June 25, 2009

June 20, 2009

I just received word at 8:06 AM that the meet has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled.  Anyone who was scheduled to swim will be able to count this meet as one of the 3 needed for divisionals.

Sorry for any inconvenience

June 14, 2009

Congratulations to the SMSC Sharks for a well earned victory on Saturday against EPAC.  The final score was SMSC 479 EPAC 374.  The meet was very close for a long time and we pulled away towards the end.  There were many personal best and new times for swimmers and those are attached as a pdf file.  Ribbons can be picked up at the pool in the ribbon folders.  If you can not locate them, please ask another swimmer or coach.

Thanks to all the parents who volunteered to help at the meet, it would not be possible to have a swim meet without the parents participation.  Please volunteer to help again this week at Camp Hill.  They have an 8 lane pool so we need more timers than a home meet.  See Lisa Webber if you would like to help.

Next weekend, we swim Camp Hill at their pool.  Directions can be found on our website at the following URL http://www.smscsharks.com/directions.htm#CampHill   Looks like warmups for us will be at 8 AM and the meet starts at 8:30 AM.  I will verify that and send out a reminder later in the week.
 
Please be sure to sign up for the meet by Wed night so the coaches can make an accurate lineup.  This is especially important for the relay events as we need to know who is available. There is a sign up sheet on deck at the pool.  You can also email the coaches or myself if you are unable to get to the pool.

Entries/payments for all 3 invitationals are due by this Friday June 19th.  Information can be found on the bulliten board at the pool.

Barb Brinton sent a seperate email about concession sign ups for our remaining meets and it is quite simple so please take the time to sign up for at least one item.  As she mentioned, this is our main fundraiser for the summer season and we need everyone's help to make it a success.

June 08, 2009

Just a few reminders for this week.  Our first meet of the season is this Saturday and we need everyones' help to make these meets successful.  We will need timers, officials, team mom, etc.  To volunteer, please contact our Meet Director Lisa Webber, see the note below.

Lisa Webber will need parents to volunteer for the swim meet on Saturday.  Please email her at ltwebber@comcastnet or call her at 249-9028 to inform her of your availability.  If you have never volunteered, you can be trained!

We also need concessions donations and the sign up sheet is posted at the pool and attached to the this email.  If you see something you want to sign up for, please let Barb Brinton know so she can mark it off.
 

June 02, 2009

Feb. 09, 2009

Jan. 18, 2009

This week practice will be at its normal time every night as the HS does not have any home meets.

There will be a parents meeting on Friday night 1/23 at 6:10 in the Graphic Arts room just down the hall from the pool. 

We have our last away meet of the season this week against Mercersburg at James Buchanan High School.  Please be sure to sign up at the pool if you are attending or not.  We will warm up at 8:30 AM with the meet to start at 9 AM.  The drive is just over an hour so please plan accordingly.  The directions are located at the end of the email.

Lisa Webber will need volunteers to help at the meet on Saturday.  Even if you are a regular volunteer, please confirm that you will be going to the meet and are available.  If you have never volunteered, please consider stepping up to help!

Divisionals are going to be on Feb14th at Big Spring.  As a reminder, a swimmer must compete in 3 dual meets to be eligible for divisionals.  If you have not yet reached your total of 3 meets and plan to be at divisionals, we have 3 opportunities left to qualify.  A sign up sheet will be posted for divisionals where the swimmers can indicate their preferred 3 events and whether they would like to do a relay as well.

Also, do not forget to check your status for the rescheduled EPAC meet on Sunday 2/1.  If your status changed, please let Coach Victor know and mark it on the sign up sheet.

The WSY Valentine Invite for swimmers age 9 and under is coming up on Sunday 2/8.  Entries are due to me by Jan 31st so I can get them entered and sent in.  The information will be posted at the pool starting Monday.

Directions to Mercersburg Area Swim Club

Travel I-81 South to Exit 5.  From the exit ramp, turn right onto Route 16. Continue through Greencastle on Route 16 and travel approximately 10 miles to Mercersburg. In Mercersburg, continue straight through the first traffic ligh. At the second light, make a right turn onto PA 416/PA 75. Continue on this road for approximately 2 miles until you come to a forked intersection.  Turn left onto Route 75 at this intersection (James Buchanan Middle School will be off to your left). Travel approximately 100 yards and turn left into the James Buchanan High School driveway. The pool parking lot is on the right side of the building.

Address I believe is:

4773 Fort Loudon Rd
Mercersburg, PA 17236

Jan. 3, 2009

I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays!!

 

This week, we have a home meet on Saturday 1/10 against EPAC.  We are going up against a strong, undefeated EPAC team so we need to bring our best to the pool to maintain our perfect record in division meets.  The sign up sheet is posted at the pool if you are unable to get to the pool to sign up, please let Victor or I know.  It is important to indicate a yes or no so an accurate lineup can be made, thank you for your attention to this.

 

Warm ups at 8 AM, please plan to arrive and check in by 7:45 AM.

 

As for all home meets, please bring your concession stand item(s), if you have questions about concessions please contact Barb Brinton, barbbrinton@comcast.net

 

Lisa Webber would like to thank the parents who have stepped forward to help at the meets.  The meets will not run smoothly without volunteers.  If you are available for the EPAC meet, please contact her as soon as possible at ltwebber@comcast.net or 249-9028.

 

Practice this week is at normal times on Mon, Wed, and Friday.  On Tuesday and Thursday, it will be Sandsharks only at 7 PM due to HS home meets.

 

Team pictures are coming up on Jan 13th. Picture order forms are available at the pool.

Dec. 23, 2008

Congratulations to the SMSC Sharks on a victory over CYAA last Saturday.  The final score was SMSC 578 CYAA 501.  SMSC is now 2-0 in their division and 2-1 overall.  Our next meet is Jan 10th at home against a very good EPAC team.  Please sign up for this meet at the pool.

 

There were 119 new/improved times at the Carlisle meet and the coaches have those times if you are interested.  Way to go SMSC swimmers.

 

A few other notes:

 

Snowflake Splash invitational entries are due by Jan 2nd.  The information pack is posted at the pool. Please sign up on the back side of the packet.

 

Team Pictures are scheduled for Jan 13th and order forms are at the pool in the black box near the ribbon folders.  Please ask if you cannot find them.

Dec 18, 2008

The SMSC Holiday party has been moved to Dec 23rd during practice.  The HS meet with Trinity that was originally scheduled for that day has been moved to January.

 

The swimmers will practice for short while and play some games. The parents association will provide pizza for the kids. 

 

If you could please respond to let me know if you are coming, so we can make an accurate estimate on the pizza it would be greatly appriciated. 

 

Sorry for the short notice on the change, but the HS meet was just changed today.

Dec 15, 2008

The parent's meeting for this week is cancelled and will be re-scheduled after the holidays.

 

Practice this week at regular times except Tuesday due to a home HS swim meet.  Tuesday will be Sandsharks at 7 PM everyone else enjoy the night off.

 

Note from Coach Victor: 

We had a great day on Saturday, 196 new and fastest times, great job
everyone.  This week we will be facing a very tough Carlisle team so
everyone needs to work hard and get ready.  We will be awarding swim
caps from our first meet and Saturdays meet on Monday and Tuesday, so we
all look forward to seeing each and every one of you.

Parents, from the Coaching staff - Thanks to everyone who supported the
effort and an especially big THANKS to everyone who assisted from timers
to concession stand. 

I do have one concern and I want to get it out early this year.  Dana
and I placed a signup sheet outside the front door of the pool (bulletin
board) it has every meet this season.  Last week was one of the hardest
weeks I have had in getting the lineup set and ready. I know we all
juggle a lot of tasks that our kids have to do along with our, not to
mention the flu bug.  If you have something else scheduled at the same
time as our swim meet, that is fine, but it is very frustrating to learn
of it on Friday or Saturday morning.  We have over 100+ swimmers and
trying to get everyone 3 individual and 1 relay is very tough, so if you
inform at the last minute or do not sign up on the sheet (or email
me/Dana) then do not be surprise on what or how much your child swims.
Please either send me or Dana an email or please mark on the board
whether your swimmer will be there for this Saturday, I am working up
the events now.  Again thanks for everything you do in supporting our
Club.

Vic

 

Note from Meet Director: 

Lisa Webber would like to thank the parents who have stepped forward to help at the meets.  The meets will not run smoothly without volunteers.  If you are available for the Carlisle meet, please contact her as soon as possible at ltwebber@comcast.net or 249-9028.

Additional items:

 

This week's meet is our first away meet of the season at the Carlisle YMCA located at 311 S West Street in Carlisle.  SMSC warm ups start at 8:30 with the meet to start at 9 AM.  Please plan to arrive early as parking and swimmer seating are limited.  Remember to bring blankets or sleeping bags to sit on as many if not all swimmers will be in a hallway.  Carlisle has a rather large team this season and it will be a tough test for us so we need as many of you that can make it to be there.  Sign up is posted at the pool.

 

Practice over the holiday break:

 

SMSC will not practice on the following dates : 12/23,24,25,26,31 and 1/1.  Practice will be at its regular times on Dec 22nd, 29th, and 30th and Jan 2nd.  We understand there are many other commitments over the holidays but please come as often as your schedules allow.

 

On Dec 30th, SMSC will be having its annual holiday celebration.  In lieu of practice, the swimmers will participate in team relays and other fun activities. The parents association will provide pizza.  A sign up sheet will be posted for those interested in coming so an accurate estimate can be made on the food.  We will need some parents to bring a few items and a sheet for that will be posted as well.

 

Team Pictures are scheduled for Tuesday Jan 13th during practice time.  Picture order form will be available soon. Stay tuned for more information on that.

 

Dec 7, 2008

Thank you to everyone with the great participation in the sub/sandwich fundraiser.  SMSC made just over $1025 in profit from your efforts. This money helped to purchase the equipment to get electronic times for the 25 yard events.

 

Practice Schedule for this week.

 

M/W/F Regular times and groups.

Tu/Th Sandsharks only at 7 PM  (note the time change)

 

BSHS Swim meets start this week and we have 2 home meets. Chambersburg on Tuesday and Gettysburg on Thursday both meets start at 4 PM.  If you are available please come out and cheer on the high school team.  Sandsharks will practice after the meet concludes if for some reason it runs past 7 PM.

 

We are hosting Waynesboro YMCA on Saturday. Warm ups at 8 AM so plan to arrive at 7:45 to get checked in and ready to warm up.  Meet will start at 9 AM.  Waynesboro has about 92 swimmers total so it should be faster than the last meet for those of you planning activities later in the day.  Remember to sign up on the sheet in the hallway and don't forget your concession item(s).

 

Lisa Webber will be in need of volunteers for the meet on 12/13 and 12/20.  Please email her at ltwebber@comcastnet or call her at 249-9028 to inform her of your availability.  If you have never volunteered, you can be trained! 

 

We have tentatively scheduled a parents meeting for Dec 15th (Monday) to discuss holiday party, team pictures, team gifts and end of season party.  I know there are a lot of activities going on this time of year but wanted to try to have a brief meeting before the holiday break.

 

Also, this week marks the start of HS athlectic events.  When there are home meets for basketball, wrestling, etc, parking will be tighter than normal.  The school district typically has people policing the parking lots so you will not be able to park along the curbs to wait for swimmers after practice.  Please plan accordingly.  Also there will be someone in the hallway taking tickets for the games, please just let them know you are there for swim practice and are going to the pool area not the game.  If we need to change our traffic patterns in/out/around the pool, it will be in a future email.  Thanks in advance for your patience and cooperation with this.

 

Looking ahead, there is another HS home meet on 12/16 so only the Sandsharks will practice that day at 7 PM.  Our first away meet of the season is coming up as well on 12/20 at the Carlisle YMCA.  We will warm up at 8:30 AM with a 9 AM start.  Be sure to bring a blanket or sleeping bag as many of the swimmer will be in a hallway there. Again the sign up sheet is posted.

Dec 1, 2008

I hope everyone had an safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving.

 

SMSC practice this week will be at the regular times every night.  Pay attention for practice alerts starting next week as high school swim meets start and this will impact some practice times.

 

Sub orders are delivered this Wed evening to the pool.  We expect R&K to deliver them around 6:15 PM so please make plans to stop by and pick up your orders.  SMSC will make $1028 on the sub/sandwich sale this season.  Thank you to everyone for their support and hard work to make this successful.

 

Remember to sign up for the remaining dual meets this season.  The sign up sheet is posted at the pool.  Our next meet is Dec 13th at home.

 

If you wanted to order SMSC clothing for the holidays, time is running out.  Orders are due now for holiday delivery.  If you have questions, please see Brenda Hallett.

Nov 23, 2008

Thank you to everyone who came out and participated in our first meet of the season.  Your patience and support is appreciated.    The final score for our meet with NYAC was NYAC 700 SMSC 386.  While this may look bad, NYAC is a larger team and 2 divisions above us in the league.  Additionally, many swimmers swam personal bests and many others swam new events for the first time. All in all, there were 192 new/improved times on Saturday and they will be posted at the pool next week.  Also, the 8&U boys and 9-10 girls won their respective age groups.  Congratulations to everyone for the effort.  Ribbons from your events should be in your ribbon folder located on the pool deck.

 

Our next meet will be Dec 13th against Waynesboro at home, followed by an away meet at the Carlisle YMCA on Dec 20th.  The sign up sheet for the remaining meets should be posted soon, so please be sure and sign up.  This is the start of our in division meets and the beginning of our divisional title defense. 

 

Practice this week will be at the regularly schedule times M-W with no practice on Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

 

As you may have noticed, there were a lot of swimmers at the meet on Saturday and we would like to thank everyone for their patience in sticking around until the completion of the meet and cheering on the swimmers.  Many of the teams are larger than in years past due in part to the Olympic spotlight on swimming this past summer. 

 

The concession stand was a huge success on Saturday as well, but they ran out of many items due to the size of the teams.  So Barb and her crew are going to look at what additional items may be needed for future home meets.  We ask that if you have not yet signed up for a concession item to please be on the look out for concession updates and sign up to donate.  If you have any questions about the concession stand, please contact Barb at BarbBrinton@comcast.net

 

Thank you to everyone that participated in the sub/sandwich fundraiser as well we sold over 500 units and should turn a nice profit.  Final numbers will be provided when available. Remember they will be delivered to the pool on Dec 3rd so please make plans to pick up your orders around 6:30 PM.

 

SMSC clothing orders are due by Dec 1st for holiday delivery. There will be additional order forms available at the pool this week.  Brenda has a nice variety of team apparel for the swimmers as well as the parents.

 

Remember, no practice on Thurs or Fri, we hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving.

Nov 17, 2008

Thanks to everyone who came out and participated in time trials Friday night. If you missed it and would like to swim for a time, please see Coach Victor to make any arrangements.

NYAC at SMSC this Saturday

We kick off our dual meet season with a crossover meet with NYAC at home.  SMSC warmups will be at 8 AM please plan to arrive by 7:45 to get checked in and ready to swim.  Remember to sign up by Wed.  Don't forget sweats and a blanket/towel to sit on as many of you will be in the hallway.  Parents please remember your concession items.

Meet Volunteers

Lisa Webber is in need of volunteers for Saturday's swim meet.  Please email, ltwebber@comcast.net  or call (249-9028) her if you are able to help.  If you are timing, please let her know if you want a writing or non-writing lane.  If you have never timed, she will train you!

Concessions

If you forgot what you are to bring, please contact Barb Brinton at BarbBrinton@comcast.net

Team Suits

The team suit order has arrived and will be available for pick up this week at practice.

Fund Raising

Sub order forms and payment are due this week,  please turn them in by the end of the week.  Thank you for your support.

Nov 2, 2008

Parents' meeting on Thursday Nov 6th

There will be a brief meeting for new parent's at 6 PM with the regular parents meeting to follow at 6:30.  I expect the meeting to be fairly quick and look forward to many of you attending.  It will be held in the Graphic Arts classroom just down the hall from the pool area.  We will be looking for committee volunteers and kicking off our fundraiser for the season.  Please feel free to come and participate and ask any questions you may have.

 

Team Suits

The try on kit for team suits has been available for about a week now and many of you have placed your orders. For those of you still looking to order teams suits, the try on kit will be available at practice this week yet.  Orders are due by Thursday Nov 6th so that we can be sure to get the suits before our first meet.  We will try to have the suits there early enough for the kids to try them on before practice.

 

Concessions

The concession sign up sheet is nearly filled up.  Many thanks to those who have been so generous and signed up.  If you have not signed up, there are still some items left.  Thanks you for supporting the concession stand.

 

Registration

The registration deadline is approaching rapidly. SMSC has 75 swimmers officially registered with Parks and Rec.  If you have not yet signed up, please take the time to do so this week.  Registration can be done with Park and Rec directly or the materials will be available at practice yet this week.

 

Stroke and Turn Officials

Thank you to the parents that attended the stroke and turn clinic this past Saturday.  For anyone else interested in being an official this upcoming season, there is another clinic on 11/25 7-9 PM at Mechanicsburg HS.  If you are interested, please let me know so I can send a list of attendees.

 

Fundraiser

This season, SMSC will once again be selling subs and pretzel sandwiches from R&K subs.  The subs are $5 each and sandwiches $4 each.  Orders and money are due back to us by 11/20 and the orders will be delivered to you on 12/3 at 6:30 at the pool.  This will be our 3rd year for these and we have had great success with it.  Please find attached an order form for your use, there will also be some printed out and available at the pool starting this week sometime.   I also have the form available in excel format if you prefer.  Any question on this can be directed to me. (Click here for Form)

Oct 25, 2008

No Practice on Thursday 10/30 due to trick or treat.

 

Regular practice schedule on the other nights.

 

The sign up for concession stand is now posted on the bulliten board outside the pool area.  Please take a moment to sign up for an item.  If you have any questions, please see Barb Brinton.

 

Team Suits

Please note that team suits are not required for competition.  Girls suits will be $48 and boys jammers $32.  Try on dates will start on 10/28 and run through 11/7 with orders and money due by 11/7.  Try ons may not occur each night so if we miss you one night, please check back.  If you have any questions, please ask at the pool and we will be glad to help you.

 

For those of you that have registered with Parks and Rec, thank you!  Registration deadline for SMSC is approaching for those not registered.  It is important that if you are registering to get it done as soon as possible as this helps the coaches know how many swimmers they have in each age group and it avoids late additions to the league roster which is due in November prior to our first meet.

 

Anyone interested in becoming a certified stroke and turn official should let me know as soon as possible.  The stroke and turn clinic at Big Spring is Sat 11/1 at 9 AM.  There is no cost for the clinic, you just show up and learn how to judge the 4 competitive strokes so that we have officials for our meets.  This is one of the many positions to voluteer for at a meet so if you are interested, please let me know.  There will be another clinic at Mechanicsburg on 11/25 at 7 PM if you are interested and that date works better for you.

 

The first parents' meeting of the season is scheduled for Novemeber 6th and will be in the Graphic Arts classroom, just down the hall from the pool.  From 6-6:30, there will be new parent orientation for what to expect throughout the season and at meets.  At 6:30, we will have a brief(hopefully) regular meeting to select committe chairs for those not filled and kick off our fundraiser for the season.

Oct 18, 2008

Thank you for a fantastic first week of try outs and practice.  It looks like there will be a lot of new swimmer who are joining SMSC and we welcome them all and hope they have a great time.

 

We will begin the regular practice schedule beginning October 20th.  That schedule is as follows: Sandsharks Tu/Th 6-7 PM, Tiger and Hammerheads M/W/F 6-7 PM, Makos and Great Whites M-F 6-8 PM.  If you are unable to make your scheduled practice time, feel free to come another evening to make it up, the coaches will put you in with another group.  If you have a reoccuring conflict please see Coach Victor.  If your swimmer is unsure of which group they are in, please see Coach Victor. 

 

Note: There is no practice next Friday 10/24 due to home football game.

 

 

Updates to the meet schedule:  Due to circumstances mostly beyond my control, there have been a few changes to the meet schedule this season and I have attached an updated schedule for you to print out if you like.  The changes are as follows NYAC is now on 11/22 at home, the 12/20 meet is now Carlisle and is away, and on 1/10 and 1/31 we switched opponents but not location so those are still home meets.  While I dislike schedule changes after the league scheduling meeting, this appeared to be the only way for other teams in the division to get all their meets scheduled and SMSC agreed to be accomodating.

 

Thanks to everyone who stopped by the SMSC Merchandise table during the past week.  The items will be available throughout the season just ask Brenda or an officer and they will be glad to help.

 

The first parents' meeting of the season is scheduled for Novemeber 6th and will be in the Graphic Arts classroom, just down the hall from the pool.  From 6-6:30, there will be new parent orientation for what to expect throughout the season and at meets.  At 6:30, we will have a brief(hopefully) regular meeting to select committe chairs for those not filled and kick off our fundraiser for the season.

 

In the coming week or so, the sign up for concession items will be posted on the board at the pool.  We ask that each family sign up to bring an item for the concession stand.  These donations are important to the success of the concession stand.  If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to ask Barb Brinton.

 

The sizing kit for team suits will be arriving soon and you will have the opportunity to try on and order a team suit for this season. Please note that team suits are not required for competition.  Girls suits will be $48 and boys jammers $32.  Try on dates will start on 10/28 and run through 11/7 with orders and money due by 11/7.  Try ons may not occur each night so if we miss you one night, please check back.

 

For those of you that have registered with Parks and Rec, thank you!  Registration deadline for SMSC is approaching for those not registered.  It is important that if you are registering to get it done as soon as possible as this helps the coaches know how many swimmers they have in each age group and it avoids late additions to the league roster which is due in November prior to our first meet.

 

Anyone interested in becoming a certified stroke and turn official should let me know as soon as possible.  The stroke and turn clinic at Big Spring is Sat 11/1 at 9 AM.  There is no cost for the clinic, you just show up and learn how to judge the 4 competitive strokes so that we have officials for our meets.  This is one of the many positions to voluteer for at a meet so if you are interested, please let me know.

 

Also, entries are due this week for the Pentathlon invitational at Chambersburg YMCA.  Entry fees are $4 per event so $20 if you do all 5 in your age group.  This looks to be a fun meet. If you are interested, the informational packet is posted at the pool and the coaches and I would be happy to answer any questions.

Oct 9, 2008

Just a reminder that SMSC winter season starts next week 10/13.  New swimmers 6-7 PM and returning swimmers 7-8 PM.  Registration materials will be available at the pool for those of you that have not yet registered.

 

Coaching this season will be Victor and Sara along with Bizzy Hanniford. We are looking forward to an exciting season. 

 

Team info letter and meet schedule will be available at the pool next week and we hope to have it available on the website as well.