Policies

  Communication
The primary source of communication is our team website located at www.sierramarlins.net. We also have a family file folder system located in the team’s shed on deck. Within a week of joining, each family will have an account on our website and a family file where they can find important information on meets and upcoming events.

The Marlins’s staff strives to keep an open line of communication between parents and coaches. Keeping coaches aware of any problems that a swimmer may be having helps them to be better coaches for that athlete. Parents with a brief question, comment or concern should see a coach either before or after practice. Parents wishing to discuss something in detail should set an appointment by calling the Marlin’s voice mail at (916) 990-5584 or by e-mailing your coach (check for addresses
here). Parents should only approach a coach during practice time during an emergency.

Fundraising
Swim Meets- Each family is required to participate in the running of all home swim meets. Parent participation is required regardless of swimmer participation.

Swim-for-Marlins- During the past few years, we have conducted a letter writing fundraiser coupled with a team swim for distance. This last year, we swam to Disneyland and did a 150 person relay! This is usually coupled with a pot luck party or barbecue including prizes.

Corporate Sponsorship- We are very interested in corporate sponsorship opportunities. If you can help in this area, please let us know.

Equipment
Marlin team members are required to wear team gear to all swim meets. Each swimmer should have a team cap (or none at all), black Nike team suit, team T-shirt and team sweats. Each new Marlin swimmer will receive the above listed gear as part of their registration fees. Swimmers are required to wear a team cap at practice or none at all. A team parka is also recommended during the winter months. Additional or replacement team caps can be purchased from the coaches or at Nor-Cal Swim Shop.

Each group has certain required equipment. Swimmers should check with their individual coach for what they might need. All Equipment should be purchased through Nor-Cal swim ship located at 120 Sunrise Ave. in Roseville (916) 771-7946.

The Pool Deck
The deck is the province of the swimmers and coaches. Parents are encouraged to observe practice, but must remain in the stands. If a swimmer is to leave practice early, the coach should be notified before practice starts. Parents should not try to communicate to their children during practice as it disrupts the coaches and other swimmers. If there is an emergency,
please communicate through the coach.

Training in Inclement Weather
Practice is only canceled in the event of electrical storms and severe wind. Rain is not grounds for canceling practice. If practice should be canceled, the phone committee will attempt to contact the membership in advance. If you are in doubt as to whether practice will be canceled, call the voice mail (990-5584) and a message will let you know any changes or check our website. Keep in mind that the pool is the same temperature, and the swimmers are wet, whether it rains or not. Practicing in the rain is fun to most, so don?t be scared off by a few sprinkles!

Summer/Winter Break and Vacations
Monthly dues are not prorated due to family vacations. Each year, the Marlins take a one week break at the end of August and two weeks at the end of December. Full dues are charged for the months of August and December as our expenses continue.

Departures/ Transfers
Parents who wish to drop membership must do so in writing with 30 days notice. Anyone transferring teams is responsible for any paperwork incurred due to the transfer. The transfer must be signed by both the treasurer and the head coach.

Complaints 
The coach is always the first person to approach regarding coaching of your child. If the issue cannot be resolved via the coach, please contact the Head Coach. If still unresolved, the issue can then be taken to the board. If you are unclear about how to handle the matter, you may always go to your Team Parent.

Complaints regarding other issues (policies, decisions etc.)
Please go to your Team Parent, who can suggest the appropriate person to whom your issues should be addressed.

   
We are happy to welcome you the SMST organization. We know you and your child will benefit from the time you spend on the team. You can expect professional coaching, encouraging and life shaping experiences, camaraderie for the whole family and A WHOLE LOT OF FUN! ! !