Fall Tryouts 2025
The Basics:
It's the start of a new year, so it's time for another round of tryouts and welcoming new faces to our team!!
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First, we encourage prospective members to stop by our table at the Club Sports Expo on Tuesday, September 2nd from 4-7 pm on the Rec Turf. We'd love to meet you and answer any questions you have about the team, tryouts, and the upcoming season!! Or, just come introduce yourself and say hi!!
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Next, swimmers interested in the team should attend our info session on Sunday, September 7th at 1:00 pm in the Cape Cod Lounge in the Student Union. We are looking forward to meeting everyone and explaining the ins and outs of UMCS and our tryout process. We will share information about our daily practices, team bonding activities, and meets as well as give attendees the chance to meet our E-Board and ask questions! ​
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Finally, tryouts will be held during our second week back on campus. The schedule for the week is as follows; please read carefully. As always, feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
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Monday, September 8th - 6:15-8:00 pm
Last names A-L
Ice breakers + a Mini-practice
Tuesday, September 9th - 8:15-10:00 pm
Last names M-Z
Ice breakers + a Mini-practice
Wednesday, September 10th - 6:15-8:00 pm
ALL SWIMMERS
Time Trials day #1: 100 IM + 50 Choice
Thursday, September 11th - 8:15-10:00 pm
ALL SWIMMERS
Time Trials day #2: 100 Freestyle​
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It is imperative that you attend ALL 3 of your assigned days but we understand life happens! Shoot us an email or talk to us at the info session or club expo if you have a conflict preventing you from attending any day of tryouts - communication is KEY. It's the beginning of a new year and we're all busy, but it is important that you demonstrate an ability to commit your time to this team :).
Frequently Asked Questions:
What Can I Expect At Tryouts?
Monday and Tuesday will consist of get-to-know-you activities followed by a mock practice led by our two coaches. This is a great opportunity for you to introduce yourselves to our E-Board and each other! Remember that everyone is nervous and excited alongside you so don't be afraid to put yourself out there and make friends with those around you. Only half of the tryout group will be at each day so make sure you check the schedule and use this time to get to know the swimmers around you!!
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Wednesday and Thursday will be time trials following a traditional race structure with times for warming up and cooling down. Everyone trying out will be asked to swim a 100 I.M., 100 Freestyle, and 50 Choice. Remember that we don't have specific time cuts, so just focus on doing your best to showcase your abilities. Again, everyone is nervous! Cheer on your lane mates and help us build a positive atmosphere on the pool deck.
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What Should I Bring to Tryout?
Come ready to swim! Bring your trusted goggles, caps, towels, emotional support water bottles, etc. Anything that is going to best allow you to be comfortable and focus on your tryout. We want to be able to make the most out of our short time with you so come a few minutes early if you plan on changing into your swimsuit once you get there.
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Are there Specific Time Cuts?
Short answer: No!
We take a holistic approach, making deliberations based on our team's 3 A's: attitude, ability, and attendance. UMCS members have a wide range of abilities and commitments, from those who swim at practice every day and compete at Nationals, to those who come to keep up their exercise and enjoy the social aspect. UMCS truly allows individuals to put as much into the team as they would like and provides members with a core group on campus. Our 3-A approach allows us to maintain a broad spectrum of diverse individuals to continue the legacy of our amazing team. Please feel free to send us an email if you have any questions before, during, or after the tryout process.
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When Will I Know if I Made it?
Swimmers can expect to hear back about making the team by Friday morning and are encouraged to join our Fun Friday activity that evening. Practices with new members will begin the following Monday, September 15th. Everyone who tries out will get an email from us one way or another so please reach out if you don't hear anything by the end of the week.
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How do I Get to the Pool in Boyden?
Boyden is a MAZE so get there early to make sure you can get where you need to be. The easiest way to access the pool is through the downstairs doors facing Linden House on the north side of the building. Refer to the map below for help! We will also be around the building to help direct you if you're lost.
