Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commitment level?
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Almost everything we do is optional! There is no attendance requirement nor do we track it. We understand that everyone has a different commitment level and availability. We highly encourage you to come to practices/events and be involved but we have no requirements for attendance.
What are practices like?​
Coaches will typically write sets in the 3000-4000 yard range per practice. Intervals vary by capability and lanes. Each day has a different focus and the sets are posted at the start of the week. While it may not be as greuling as a USA Club or your high school team, we still try to challenge you a little. Our coaches are very friendly students like you and want you to have fun and improve.
Who can join?
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We are open to undergraduate and graduate students of Michigan State University. While most of our members have prior swim team experience, it is not required to join. You should be able to swim laps and have knowledge of all four strokes. Our team ranges from members trying the sport for the first time to NCAA level swimmers and everyone in between.
What about meets?
We typically participate in one home meet and 2-3 away meets per semester. In the past, we have traveled to the University of Michigan, Ohio State, Purdue, Notre Dame, and many more. Meets are typically set up in an invitational format with most events offered but we also occasionally host dual and intrasquad competitions. The only meet that has qualifying time standards is the National Championship in April. Although meets are optional, they are a great way to get to know your teammates and are a lot of fun. You might surprise yourself by how fast you swim too. Please see the meets tab on the website for a season schedule.
What do I need?
Goggles, swimsuit, towel, water bottle, and a swim cap. The only additional equipment you'll need at practice will be a kickboard and a pullbouy (limited supply available at the pool). If you have your own equipment we encourage you to bring it to save the pools supply for members who don't. Some members also like to use their own paddles and snorkle, however, it is not at all required. We offer team suit and apparel for sale at the beginning of the season.
What is College Club Swimming?
College Club Swimming (CCS) is the governing body of our club and college club swim programs across the US. At our level, we are seperate from the Michigan State Athletic Department and the NCAA. We are student run and affiliated with the MSU Club Sports Department. In fact, CCS Athletes are not allowed to have been on a Varsity team roster within the same academic year.
Do you offer diving? What about Water Polo?
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At the college club level, swim and dive compete seperately. Michigan State does have a diving club, mens water polo club, and womens water polo club, that are all seperate from our club. Some of our swim club members also partake in one of these other clubs as well and we occasionally organize events with our aquatic friends. Links can be found here.
How and when can I join?
Our club practices from September through April every year. Join us for the 2023-2024 season!
We welcome new members at any point during the year. At the first practice of each semester, we will have a team meeting for new/existing members to go over logistics of the season but no big deal if you miss it, we'll fill you in.
In order to become an official member of the club you must pay dues. We allow you to give the club a try before paying. Please see our join page for more information.
Why Join?
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In a club sports survey, 95% of respondents said that joining a club sport gave them a sense of belonging at MSU. Joining a club is a great way to meet new people with similar backgrounds and interests. As a club, our members enjoy spending time with eachother in and outside of the pool. Between practices, meets, and other events we put on, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. For many, we serve as a place for swimmers to continue their competitive careers in a positive environment - without the same pressures that they may have faced in the past.