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Amarillo Swim Team (AST) is a member of United States Swimming, the national governing body of competitive swimming. The club is an age group, competitive swim program serving
the Amarillo metropolitan area. Our emphasis is on fun, fitness, and helping each member achieve their highest potential. The program is designed to meet the needs of all qualifying swimmers.
Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for both the old and young! The benefits of swimming are many and varied. As a competitive swimmer, with superior skills in the water, each child is safer around the water, an important consideration in the
Texas Panhandle! Swimming is also excellent aerobic exercise, helping to develop a strong cardiovascular system in each participant.
AST has been serving the Amarillo Area since 1969. The outstanding reputation
and tradition we have built in the Texas Panhandle is well deserved. Our swimmers have achieved success at all levels of competition, including senior nationals. We consistently place swimmers on the top and some have become champions. We have sent swimmers to college on full ride scholarships and many other swimmers have gone on to swim at High School State, Western Zones, Regional Championships, and World Class Competitions. Striving to be of benefit to every swimmer has always been our primary goal. All individuals are important assets to our team. We would be honored to have your swimmer in our fine program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
Where do we swim?
During the summer
months (June through August) we swim at Southwest Pool at John Stiff Park on
47th and Bell. During the fall, winter, and early spring months (September
through May) we swim at the Amarillo Town Club. This also requires a
membership at the Amarillo Town
Club to be a member of the Amarillo Swim Team. Please go to the
ATC website for further
membership information.
Where do we compete?
We will attend
competitions in Lubbock, Midland, and more. State level competitions are
usually held in Dallas and Austin.
What about other sports?
Research shows
that swimming is the best overall exercise for any age group. This
non-impact sport builds overall strength and endurance, which aids the child
in other sports. AST coaches encourage members to continue swimming during
soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and volleyball seasons. Another
great thing about swimming is there are no benchwarmers! Everybody has a
place on the team.
What about fun?
Yes, there is work
involved, but, there is also a lot of fun. You make new friends and share
many new experiences with them. We participate as a team in extra
activities outside of swimming
What about school work?
Not only does
swimming develop the body; it also develops self-discipline, goal setting,
and good work habits. The lessons you learn in swimming are life lessons
you carry with you, even when you are done swimming. Many of our children
represent Honor Rolls and Gifted Programs from all school districts. A
child learns to organize their time and use it wisely.
What other costs are involved with swimming?
Swimmers will need
a practice swimsuit and goggles for practice. You should be able to
find these items year round at Bucks. Academy and Big 5 carry these
items seasonally. Swimmers will be
required to purchase a Team Suit (Boys $40, Girls $50) andTeam Cap
($5 -$15) before participating in any competition.
One time yearly: USA
Registration Dues $54.00 per swimmer (required to be eligible to
compete in swimming meets. This is due two weeks before the competition and billed annually in
November to our members in good standing
Monthly: Your
continuing membership with the Amarillo Town Club based on the level of
membership you choose with that club. Team dues are listed on each of the
Team Practice Schedule & Fees Page(s).
Senior
Junior
Blue
Red/White
Does my child
have to compete to participate?
No. However,
competition is encouraged because it provides motivation for continued
hard work and improvement. Swim meets are also a lot of fun.
When will
swimmers advance to the next team?
Swimmers are
advanced to the next team when their coach, in consultation with the Head
Coach, believes that it is necessary
for their further development as a quality swimmer. Please note - every
swimmer is unique. Swimmers will advance at different paces
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