The Parent Role

The Parent Role

Competitive swimming programs provide many benefits to young athletes. They develop self-discipline, good sportsmanship, and time management skills. The competition allows the swimmer to experience success and to learn how to deal with defeat while becoming healthy and physically fit.

As a parent, your major responsibility is to provide a stable, loving and supportive environment. This positive environment will encourage your child to continue swimming. Show your interest by ensuring your child’s attendance at practices and by coming to meets. Ways you can support your swimmer:

  • Encourage their effort; as long as they give their best effort, they are a winner
  • Remind them they are still (always) learning
  • Cheer for them and cheer for other swimmers
  • A smile, a warm hug and a dry towel at the end of a practice or race
  • Get involved! This does not mean you have to run for President your first year but try to get involved in some aspect of the club. See Parent Volunteer Expectations. Plus, Officiating can be fun, and you can progress through the levels at a similar rate as your child. Very few other sports provide this opportunity. An officiating training course schedule will be circulated soon.

  • Respect the integrity of officials by assuming decisions are based on honest, objective evaluations of performance. Only coaches may approach meet officials for clarification of rulings.
  • If you have coaching concerns, address them with the appropriate coach in private. If you have club concerns, address them with your club representative.
  • Ensure that responses and communications on social media remain professional and considerate.
  • Encourage your child to compete by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility, violence, or disrespect.
  • Respect and show appreciation to all competitors and to the coaches, officials, and other volunteers.

  • There shall be no use of alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, or illegal products before or during any meets or other BCSSA activities.
  • Athletes are expected to respect each other. Fighting, intentional touching or striking another athlete will be subject to discipline.
  • Respect your opponents, and all coaches, volunteers, and officials.
  • Any questions regarding disqualifications, judge’s decisions etc. shall be directed to your coach.