Duncan Swim Team Registration Information Booklet 2025 / 26
www.duncanstingrays.com
2025 – 2026 SEASON
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
BOOKLET*
*All new swimmers or returning swimmers who did not swim during the 2024-25 season
must complete an assessment to determine appropriate placement
Questions?
Email: learntoswim@duncanstingrays.com
Created 15jul2025
Revised 07aug2025
(pg2)
| Table of Contents | |
| RETURNING MEMBERS INSTRUCTIONS | 3 |
| NEW MEMBER INSTRUCTIONS | 4 |
| GENERAL INFORMATION | 5 - 9 |
| ● Training start dates & locations ● Stingrays Family Handbook ● Family Membership ● Communication ● Payment Options ● Invoicing & Payment Processing ● Declined or expired credit card fee ● Change of Group ● Withdrawal Policy ● Non - Refundable Fees ● Swim Meet Fees ● Team Gear ● Team Support Points – NEW METHOD |
|
| STINGRAYS HOSTED COMPETITION DATES | 10 |
| PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS & benchmark expectations | 10 - 20 |
| FUNdamentals LEARN TO SWIM PROGRAM | 11 - 12 |
| Program Coordinator: Riley Janes | |
|
Stingrays FUNdamentals Swim School |
|
| REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM | 13 - 14 |
| Program Coordinator: Sophie Paridaen van Veen | |
|
Development & Diversity Group “D Group” |
|
| DIVISIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM | 15 - 16 |
| Program Coordinator: Riley Janes | |
|
Challenge Group “C Group” |
|
| PROVINCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM | 17 - 18 |
| Program Coordinator: Leanne Sirup | |
|
Believe Group “B Group” |
|
| NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM | 19 - 20 |
| Program Coordinator: Leanne Sirup | |
|
Autonomy Group “A Group” |
|
| FIT 4 LIFE PROGRAM | 21 - 22 |
| Program Coordinators: Dylan Kruger (Youth) & Natalie Enzs (Masters) | |
|
● Fit4Life: Youth |
|
| DUNCAN SWIM TEAM CONSENT FORMS | 23 - 30 |
|
|
(pg3)
Returning Member Instructions
*RETURNING MEMBERS are defined as Swimmers actively training as of June 1, 2025
STEP 1: Read the 2025 – 26 Registration Information Booklet
- Group Descriptions, Annual Registration & Training Fees are posted in this document
- General Team Policies and Family Participation information can be found within this document. The full overview of each can be found in the Stingrays Family Handbook
Step 2: Review the main changes from last season:
- This document is provided to all DST returning members:
- Annual/Cycle/Monthly Dues will be increased a nominal amount in the 25/26 season to address the CAC 3% increase in lane rental costs
- Team Support Points updated to a base ‘pay as you go’ model
Step 3: Complete Online Registration
- Online Registration will be open via the Stingrays website starting Friday, August 1st, 2025 Wed 13aug2025 @ 9am
- Prior to this date, families will receive an email stating the Group their Swimmer has been assessed at and recommended for the upcoming season
- Through the online registration system, families will:
- Confirm or provide primary & emergency contact information
- Select child(ren) to register and their level / group schedule
- Review payment option(s)
- Electronically agree with all of the posted Stingrays Policies
Step 4: Drop into one of the In-Person Registration / Team Gear Order days
- Families paying by Email Money Transfer (EMT) for the 2025 – 26 season must submit their Annual payments PRIOR to the 1st day of Swimming & prior to the listed due date(s). The specific amount(s) can be found within your family’s online account.
- Families paying by credit card may update their profile within their duncanstingrays.com family account and will have their credit cards charged for all Annual payments PRIOR to the 1st day of Swimming. The specific amount(s) can be found within your family’s online account.
- Swimmers will place their equipment and apparel orders by September 30th
Step 5: Swimming Canada Online Registration
In September, Families will be emailed a link to confirm their Swimming / Natation Canada (SNC) account information. This email will come from the address registration@swimming.ca
Families must follow the instructions in this email to complete the following:
- Confirm account contact & demographic information
- Electronically sign the Swimming Canada Acknowledgement of Risk form for each swimmer
- Agree to Swimming Canada policies
🡺 Families can forego Step 5 and allow for the DST Registrar to complete this final step of the SNC Registration.
All unconfirmed SNC accounts will be confirmed by the DST Registrar within 2wks of the Swimmer’s Registration. Families who fulfill the first 4 steps above give permission for the DST Registrar to complete this final step in SNC Registration on their behalf
Once this is completed, then the swimmer is fully registered and insured under Swimming Canada. Swimmers may not participate in Stingrays programming until Steps 1 – 5 are completed above.
(pg4)
New Member Registration Instructions
*all new members MUST attend / view a Stingrays Information session prior to signup.
Step 1: Have your child assessed for a Stingrays level during our scheduled monthly assessment day
Step 2: Read the 2025 – 26 Information Booklet
- Group Descriptions, Annual Training fees (with the option of monthly payments), family commitment, and all other team policies are posted in this document
- Full club policies and Stingrays Family Participation information can be found in the Stingrays Family Handbook and online at www.duncanstingrays.com > About Us > DST Policies & Procedures
Step 3: Sign Consent forms and provide registration fee payments
- Create an online Family Account & Swimmer Profile at www.duncanstingrays.com
- Use an email that is easily accessible + a memorable password.
This is our primary method of communication. - Click on Program Information (top menu bar on every page)
- Select the Program ie FUNdamentals, Competitive, etc & click on “Explore or Register”
- Select the Group your Swimmer was assessed at ie FUNdamentals Stage 2
- Select your day(s) of commitment
- Review the online Registration Package
- By completing the Online Registration you acknowledge that this is the equivalent to signing physical forms
- Review Swimmer Group you’re registering for
- Review fees and payment options
- Review Team Support Points (volunteering) requirement for the season applicable to ALL Competitive Groups and / or 2nd year+ Non Competitive Groups
- Once completed, you’ll arrive at the “Registration Confirmation” screen. You will also receive a corresponding email with the Registration Information Booklet for your reference.
- Full Fees are due at point of Registration. Swimmers will have a ‘See Yourself Swimming’ 2wk grace period for potential withdrawal. IF your family wishes to withdraw during this grace period, please submit IN WRITING prior to the end of the 2wk period and family will receive a FULL REFUND less $30 (Swim School Reg + DST Admin Fee)
Step 4: Swimming Canada Online Registration
Once you’ve completed the DST Registration, DST will coordinate Registration with Swim BC & Swimming Canada on your behalf. Families will be emailed a link to confirm their Swimming Canada account information. This email will come from the address registration@swimming.ca Families must follow the instructions in this email to complete the following:
- Confirm account contact & demographic information
- Electronically sign the Swimming Canada Acknowledgment of Risk form for each swimmer
- Agree to Swimming Canada policies
🡺 Families can forego Step 5 and allow for the DST Registrar to complete this final step of the SNC Registration.
All unconfirmed SNC accounts will be confirmed by the DST Registrar within 2wks of the Swimmer’s Registration. Families who fulfill the first 4 steps above give permission for the DST Registrar to complete this final step in SNC Registration on their behalf
Once this is completed, then the swimmer is fully registered and insured under Swimming Canada. Swimmers may not participate in Stingrays programming if this step is not completed within one week of sending the Swimming Canada link to the family’s primary email listed on their account.
(pg5)
General Information
Training, Start & End Dates
See training group descriptions for the training schedule and group start date.
All information is posted on the Stingrays website www.duncanstingrays.com The Training schedule is subject to change at any time. Changes, interruptions, dates to note, etc are posted on the Stingrays website > Calendars & Events > Event Info & Sign Up.
- For unexpected cancellations, a Message will be posted on the Stingrays site (FRONT PAGE) as they arise. All notices will provide families with at least 24hrs to respond. In extreme cases of less than 24hrs, families will receive a personal phone call to the number on file.
Sessions in lieu of absences, stats, etc, are available upon request provided it is made PRIOR to the missed session and is wholly at the discretion of the Lead Coach in determining space, availability, focus of session, etc all with safety for all participants in mind. Maximum 1 session in lieu will be scheduled. Please submit your request, in writing, as soon as possible.
Workouts are delivered by DST Staff on site. Requests for written workouts in lieu of intended absences will be denied.
2025/26 start and end dates:
- 22sept2025* - 15july2026 Stingrays Competitive Program
- Development aka D Group
- Challenge aka C Group
- (I) Believe aka B Group
- Autonomy aka A Group
- 29sept2025 - 26jun2026 Stingrays Non Competitive Groups
- FUNdamentals: Active Start & Stages 1, 2, 3
- Fit4Life: Youth & Masters
*the Cowichan Aquatic Centre (CAC) shutdown for 2025 is 02sept2025 – 21sept2025, inclusive.
➔ The Stingrays Competitive programs will have an abbreviated training schedule for this duration with all intentions to adhere to the published Regular Weekly Schedule where possible. Locations & activities to be determined. Abbreviated schedule commences 08sept2025.
Stingrays Family Handbook
We are in the process of updating the Stingrays Family Handbook to provide a full range on the club governance, finances, Team Support Points, and Appropriate Athlete Development is posted in the Parents Section on the website. Once updated, the updated version will be posted online.
Family Membership
All Swimmers are members of the Duncan Swim Team. Each family will have one log in for the DST website online family account at www.duncanstingrays.com with the option of adding additional emails - please add all those you wish to be included within your own family account. To note: one email can be used as your family account log in. Please be sure to share your log in information with those within your family as needed.
Each family is entitled to one vote at the Annual General Meeting.
Communication
Families must provide an email address to create your online family account at www.duncanstingrays.com – please be sure to check your emails regularly as this is our primary method of communication. Additional emails to receive notices and the like can be added to your family’s online account. Please be sure to share your log in information with those within your family as needed. Only one (1) account per Swimmer can be linked to your Swimmer.
(pg 6)
Payment Options
We’re paperless. Payment is preferred in 2 different manners:
- Within your DST online account by credit card
- Email Money Transfer (EMT) to admin@duncanstingrays.com
Invoice & Payment Processing
Within your family’s online DST Account, you will find your billing and payment history. Invoices, receipts, etc can be downloaded at your convenience via your family’s online DST Account.
Membership Dues are calculated Annually and factor in stat holidays, winter/spring breaks, competition, and other conflicts to our Regular Weekly Schedule. Annual Membership Dues can be paid by:
- Competitive Groups: 1 x Annual or 10 x Monthly installments on the 15th of each month
- Non Competitive Groups: Cycle installments at the start of each Cycle (Sept 2025, Feb 2026).
To pay a single annual fee, please contact admin@duncanstingrays.com to arrange.
Members have the option of submitting payment in their preferred manner. All outstanding invoices will be automatically charged to the credit card on file shortly after the due date (typically 1wk). Please be sure to submit alternate payment at least a week prior to the due date to negate automatic charges to your credit card and thus ensure payment is accounted for prior to the outstanding invoices being cleared.
Members are obligated to keep their account in good standing with the Team. Failure to do so will result in a review of the account’s membership by the Board of Directors and Director of Operations. Any refundable fees will be processed and refunded at the end of the swim season or termination of membership.
All members must have a valid Credit Card on file. Credit Card information is stored within the QuickBooksOnline system within the DST website. DST does not retain these records.
Credit Cards will be billed a minimum of 1wk post receiving your invoice. Please keep your account up to date and submit payment in your preferred method to negate any charges being posted to your Credit Card.
DST will hold a maximum of $300 of debt to your account. If exceeded, your account will be reviewed by the DST BOD, potentially resulting in a Swimmer suspension until the account is brought up to date.
Members who require excessive attention in keeping their account in good standing will be required to pre pay.
Please keep your account current to ensure your Swimmer’s training remains uninterrupted.
Declined or Expired Credit Card Fee
Any credit cards that fail to process will be subject to a $30 fee.
If two declined credit card payments occur during the season, a pre payment by Email Money Transfer (EMT) will be required and the family will be required to keep their account current each month.
Withdrawal Policy
The Stingrays are a private, not for profit program with the majority of costs shouldered by all members of the Stingrays. The DST Staff bases programming (lane rentals & staffing) upon total number of registered members per group and work towards mitigating costs where possible.
Request for withdrawal / group downgrade, whether temporary or permanent, must be submitted in writing prior to the first day of withdrawal / group downgrade. From the date of written notification received, there will be an obligatory 30 days notice + the remaining number of days in that “month”. Meaning, Competitive Groups’ “month” is calculated from the 15th – 15th of every month, Non Competitive Groups are 1st – 1st of every month. All dues calculated annually and then divided equally:
- Competitive billing option is MONTHLY (1/10 annually) 15th to 15th
- ie withdrawal on March 5th means financial obligation until April 15th
- Non Competitive billing option is per CYCLE (1/2 annually) 1st to 1st
- ie withdrawal on March 5th means financial obligation until April 30th.
Withdrawal Policy cont’d
(pg7)
The only exception for the Stingrays’ ’30 days + remaining days in the month’ policy, is in the instance of illness or injury. Request for consideration of a medical withdrawal can be submitted along with the Physician’s documentation for the member fees to be prorated to the full month or half month basis based solely on date of receipt. Backdating will not be considered – please express your intent in writing ASAP.
Change of Group
Families will be billed the difference in annual training fees and Swim BC Registration fees that may occur due to your swimmer’s promotion during the season.
- Annual Training Fees will be calculated at point of upgrade to the nearest month, no backdating
- Swim BC Registration Fee will only be applicable for swimmers moving from the Stingrays’ Non Competitive program to the Stingrays’ Competitive Program
For more information, regarding this, please see Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations per Group.
Non-Refundable Fees
The Swim BC fee, DST account activation, and first month training fees are non refundable. In addition, Swim Meet fees are non-refundable in most cases. See information below.
Swim Meet Fees
Swimmers must be confirmed through their online DST Account to participate in any Competition. Details for each Event are listed on the DST Events Page. Deadline for participation is typically 2wks to 10days prior to the Event. Late confirmations MAY be accepted - with a penalty - and are at the DST Staff discretion to accept. If accepted, the penalty will be:
- 1st offense: nil penalty
- 2nd offense: $20 fee
- 3rd (and subsequent) offense: $50 fee
Swim Meet entry fees are listed in each specific Meet Information Package, included in the Event Page. Swim BC Sanctioned competitions & Non Sanctioned competitions have an entry fee associated with participation (discluding DST’s Orange & Black Time Trials). Members will be notified by email their total cost for the competition shortly after the DST internal deadline. From this, you will have one last opportunity for changes prior to your financial obligation; minimum 24+hrs.
These fees are non-refundable after the posted “scratch deadline”. Meet Entry Fees may include:
- Individual Event Fees
- Relay Event Fees
- Swim BC Splash Fees
- Facility Fees
- DST Staffing Fee: for all competitions, DST Staff volunteer on behalf of your Swimmer so their travel and incidentals are also covered by all participating swimmers
The fees amounts are calculated with all confirmed participants receiving an “Entries & Fees Reports” email outlining their swimmer’s chosen events as well as the cost. You will have a minimum of 24hrs to review prior to the Final Deadline to negate financial responsibility. Please be sure to monitor your inbox & the Event Page in the final week leading up to the Event.
--> In the instance of illness or injury and after the No Charge Scratch Deadline DST Staff will appeal to the Host for refund of fees IF done in a timely manner PRIOR to the competition and supporting documentation is received ie Physician’s note. Refund of fees are wholly at the discretion of the Host and all communication external from DST is to be conducted solely by the DST Staff.
TO NOTE:
It is solely the responsibility of the DST Staff to communicate on behalf of the Duncan Swim Team and membership. Any DST member who contacts the Host Team independently will be automatically escalated to the DST Disciplinary Process violation #3: Swimmer’s participation suspended and further involvement with the Duncan Swim Team under review.
(pg8)
Swim Meet Fees: Team Travel
Team Travel meets or travel training trips will incur additional expenses such as transportation, food, additional training fees, etc. These approximate amounts will be listed on the Event Page with a minimum of 50% of this amount being due prior to the Event and the balance being calculated and invoiced post Event.
Members interested in offering support for Team Travel, please do connect with DST Head Coach leanne@duncanstingrays.com. Opportunities are, but not limited to:
- Travel & logistics
- Fundraising for a specific incentive
- Chaperone & expectations
- Assistant Chaperone
- Lead Chaperone
Fundraising:
There is no mandatory Fundraising requirement for families, although your participation in fundraising initiatives benefit everyone!
Fundraisers may be held to raise funds for a stated purpose, such as saving up for team travel or for equipment purchase, while others are held to raise funds for other team expenses, such as social events.
If you’ve a particular incentive that you would like to hold a Fundraiser for, please submit your proposal to our Fundraising Chairperson Janice G fundraising@duncanstingrays.com with the basic who/what/where/when/why details:
- Who is Fundraising
- What are we fundraising for
- Where will the fundraiser be located
- When is best for the fundraiser
- Why DST needs this fundraiser
--> Remember: if you’re thinking it’s a need within the Stingrays, it’s likely at least one other is also thinking the same. Please bring forth your ideas for types of fundraisers & / or what we’re fundraising for, and we’ll help you with the tools needed for success!
(pg9)
Team Support Points --> NEW method!
To streamline our Team’s processes and ensure that we all subscribe to the adage of ‘many hands make the load light’, DST will be incorporating a ‘pay as you go’ manner for all DST competitions.
As we all know, it takes many volunteers to host a Swim Meet. And with your Swimmer(s) being an active participant in the Swimming Community, it is expected that all participants also have a corresponding volunteer supporting their swimming experience on their behalf. By doing so, you will learn more about the Sport your Child has chosen and thus find greater joy in your child’s participation in Swimming
All DST hosted competitions will be posted and active on the DST site in their respective Event Pages.
Members can sign up for their preferred position for the ENTIRE SEASON as of Wed 01oct2025 @ 9am.
Please be sure to sign up for the roles that you are eligible / qualified for. We encourage all supporting members to work towards their Officials’ Certification. The suggested Certification pathway is, at minimum:
| D Group | C Group | B Group | A Group |
| SNC Level I | SNC Level II | SNC Level II, add'l roles | SNC Level II, completion |
- For more information regarding Swimming Natation Canada’s Officials Certification Pathway, please visit:
- https://www.swimming.ca/en/certification/
- https://www.swimming.ca/content/uploads/2023/09/Officials-Certification-Pathway-September-2023.pdf
Pay as you go: HOW IT WORKS:
- Swimmer’s participation in the competition remains the same with the online declaration prior to the DST internal deadline
- Corresponding Team Support is required for every DST hosted competition that your Swimmer participates in. We suggest that you sign up for at the same time that you declare your Swimmer.
The expectation for the Team Support is as follows:- 1 session competition = 1 session for Team Support
- 2 session competition = 1+ session for Team Support
- 3 session competition = minimum 2 sessions Team Support
- DST Entries & Fees Reports will be emailed out to all participants prior to the Entries Deadline. At that point, the Team Support / Volunteer Online Declaration will also be reviewed.
A separate email will be sent out to all of the those who are unconfirmed for Team Support. You will have until the final DST deadline, coinciding with the Entries & Fees Report’s final deadline for financial obligation at a rate of $50/session of nil Team Support. - All fees incurred will then be put towards general meet costs, general meet budgets in support of the whole Swimming community.
It is the responsibility of the member to complete their ONLINE SIGNUP through the DST site to ensure accurate accounting of volunteer sessions. Uncertain how to do this? Please contact our Volunteers Coordinator Stacey W at volunteers@duncanstingrays.com
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
- Team Support Points can be earned by multiple family members at the same event; please be sure to sign up through the Online Declaration appropriately
- Team Support Points are applicable PER FAMILY per session ie 3 swimmers in session requires 1 x Team Support volunteer
- Team Support Points cannot be ‘banked’
- DST appreciates the Team Support done by all and recognize that all of us have different circumstances that we’re managing, that there is potential for conflict in providing Team Support. Please do send your request for exemption PRIOR to the competition. Each family will have 1 x exemption per season
(pg10)
Stingrays Hosted Competition Dates
The Duncan Swim Team is striving to create greater competitive experiences for our Swimmers as well as supporting the Swimming Community as a whole.
With DST supporting the swimming community in hosting these competitions, it brings a healthy financial benefit to our Team - which translates into reducing everyone’s fees. We encourage ALL DST members to support the swimming community that your child(ren) benefits from by volunteering where possible.
For information and guidance on how to sign up online, please contact our Team’s Volunteers Coordinator Stacey W at volunteers@duncanstingrays.com For information on how to progress through your own Officials Certification pathway, please contact our Team’s Officials Administrator Carrie M at officials@duncanstingrays.com
Stingrays’ Annual Orange & Black Time Trials (unsanctioned):
| DATES: 1) Friday, 05dec2025 2) Friday, 27feb2026 3) Friday, 19jun2026 |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● FUNdamentals: Active Start & Stages 1 – 3 ● Fit4Life Youth & Masters ● D Group ● C Group optional ● C/B/A Groups leadership |
FAMILIES: this is the very first level of competition and events hosted by DST for DST. This is the perfect 1st step for YOU to take as a volunteer! Please be sure to use the Job Signup button to ensure credit towards your Team Support Points. |
Vancouver Island Region (VIR) “Level UP” Competitions (unsanctioned):
| DATES: 4) Saturday, 08nov2025 5) Saturday, 07feb2026 6) Saturday, 02may2026 7) Sunday, 14jun2026 |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● FUNdamentals Stages 2 & 3 ● Fit4Life Youth ● D Group ● C Group potential |
FAMILIES: these are the entry level of competition and events hosted by DST for the rest of the Vancouver Island Region (VIR). For our young swimmers to participate, it will require assistance from ALL families of those attending. Please be sure to use the Job Signup button to ensure credit towards your Team Support Points. |
Stingrays’ Annual Competitions (Sanctioned):
| DATES: 8) Fri 12dec & Sat 13dec2025 DST Winter Break In’l 9) Fri 06mar & Sat 07mar2026 DST Spring Break Inv’l 10) Fri 12jun & Sat 13jun2026 DST June Jamboree |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● D Group ● C Group ● B Group potential ● A Group potential |
FAMILIES: We, at DST, consider the needs of our swimming community and use the guideline of volunteering when your Swimmer is participating. Please be sure to use the Job Signup button to ensure credit towards your Team Support Points. |
MAJOR Competitions requiring FULL TEAM SUPPORT (Sanctioned):
| DATES: • June 2027 Swim BC Divisionals: bid TBD |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● D Group: if qualified ● C Group: if qualified ● B Group: if qualified ● A Group: if qualified |
FAMILIES: DST is on a hosting rotation for the VIR Champs (every 3yrs). With the support of Swim BC, DST is aiming to become more prominent on the Provincial stage and is working towards hosting privileges with one of the main criteria for hosting is having qualified Officials. |
(pg11)
Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations
The Duncan Swim Team subscribes to the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and its Appropriate Athlete Development (AAD) model for long term development in sport and physical activity, in its entirety.
All DST Staff are trained and certified through the NCCP, are members of the Canadian Swim Coaches Association (CSCA), and meet the Swimming Canada / Swim BC coach registration requirements; including but not limited to: NCCP Making Ethical Decisions, Coaches Association of Canada’s Safe Sport Training, and Respect in Sport Coach Program, registered annually.
On the next 7 pages you will find the program descriptions for each group within the Duncan Swim Team.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
FUNdamentals Swim School: Stse’elhtun* Learn to Swim Program
Program Coordinator: Riley Janes riley@duncanstingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: Active Start & FUNdamentals
Weekly Program commitment: 1 – 3 water sessions per week
Cycle 1 @ Sept 29 – Feb 22 & Cycle II @ Feb 23 – June 26
Equipment required for Stingrays’ FUNdamentals Swim School:
- Bathing suit
- Goggles
Active Start (Pre FUNdamentals)*
Prerequisite: swim 10m unassisted – in any fashion, just all by themselves = Red Cross Swim Kids 2 completed.
This program is the first step in the development of a young swimmer; typically ages 5 – 6yrs of age. Essential skills include familiarity with the water environment including the introductions to the basics of our sport in floatation, propulsion, transfer of body weight, streamlines, kicking. At the conclusion of the group, Swimmers will begin to learn the basics of Freestyle and Backstroke.
FUNdamentals Stage 1*
Prerequisite: swim 25m unassisted = Red Cross Swim Kids 4 completed.
This program is the second step in the development of the young swimmer; typically 6 – 7yrs of age. Basics of floatation/propulsion/streamlining skills are improved upon.
Swimmers will learn the basics of all 4 Swimming strokes right from the start:
- Freestyle
- Backstroke
- Breaststroke
- Butterfly
Focus for this level is learning the basics of floatation and body position. Propulsion with the legs ie "kick" is also a major component of this level of Swimming. The basics of each stroke’s turns along with the standing dive are developed.
FUNdamentals Stage 2*
Prerequisite: swim 25m Freestyle, 25m Backstroke, familiarity of Breaststroke, Butterfly (kick).
This program is the third step in the development of a young swimmer; typically 7 – 8yrs of age. Skills from the previous levels are developed further. Swimmers will learn how to more efficiently connect the arms & legs to form the 4 Swimming strokes: Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, and Butterfly.
(pg 12)
Focus for this level is mastering the basics of floatation, body position, and propulsion with the legs ie "kick" is also a major component of this level of Swimming. The rules for each of the Strokes in the Sport of Swimming are also expanded upon along with the of each stroke’s specific turns.
FUNdamentals Stage 3*
Prerequisite: swim 50m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke, 25m Breaststroke, and 25m Butterfly.
This program is the fourth step in the development of a young swimmer; typically 7 – 9yrs of age. Full strokes of Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke, and Freestyle are developed, along with turns, underwaters, finishes, dive starts and back starts. Swimmers will also expand on their Mental Skills learned in Stage 2: counting in 25m increments, counting repetitions per set, using the pace clock starting with 25s on 1:00, then repetitions on :50, so on so forth. Practices will typically exceed 500m within a session.
The rules for each of the Strokes in the Sport of Swimming are reinforced and swimmers will work to expand their endurance.
FUNdamentals program – ALL members:
Competition in our in house Time Trials “Orange & Black” is encouraged but not mandatory. Orange & Black Time Trials are held approximately every 3 months and is used as an indication for improvements. Parent volunteer as an Official is encouraged.
*While each level does have physical and technical elements as minimum and maximum prerequisites, DST Staff regularly assess the mental, emotional, social, etc sides of your Swimmer’s participation. As such, group movement is also at the coaches’ discretion when considering these and the above factors.
| FUNdamentals’ Annual Costs / Cycle | Cycle Dues | ||||
| Swim BC Registration | DST Account Activation | Family Participation Points |
Annual Dues w/ Cycle* payment option *”Cycle”: 5+/- month block (approx.) |
||
| $10 | $10 |
Nil |
$813 3 sessions / wk |
$614 2 sessions / wk |
$385 1 session / wk |
The Duncan Swim Team has a rich history which includes the amalgamation of the Duncan Swim Team Society and the Cowichan Stse’elhtun Swim Club Society in 2007. The DST Board of Directors have recently uncovered this hidden history.
The Cowichan Stse’elhtun Swim Club was a swimming program created by our Team’s Head Coach Leanne Sirup in partnership with Cowichan Tribes in 2004.
The Stingrays honor our Team’s history with custom artwork created for the Stse’elhtun by local Salish Artist Qwiyahwult-hw (Stuart Pagaduan) of Cowichan Tribes.
“Stse’elhtun” is a Hul’q’umi’num’ word meaning Salmon. Pronunciation: Stuh / ehl / tuhn
(pg13)
Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations
The Duncan Swim Team subscribes to the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and its Appropriate Athlete Development (AAD) model for long term development in sport and physical activity, in its entirety.
All DST Staff are trained and certified through the NCCP, are members of the Canadian Swim Coaches Association (CSCA), and meet the Swimming Canada / Swim BC coach registration requirements; including but not limited to: NCCP Making Ethical Decisions, Coaches Association of Canada’s Safe Sport Training, and Respect in Sport Coach Program, registered annually.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Development & Diversity Group: Regional Development Program
Program Coordinator: Sophie Paridaen van Veen sophie@duncanstingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: FUNdamentals & Learn to Train
Weekly Program commitment: 2 – 4 water sessions
Annual Season: 22sept2025 – 15july2026
w/ Cycles 22sept – 04jan, 05jan – 29mar, 30mar – 15july
“D Group”: the Regional Development Program is designed to introduce young athletes (ages 11yrs & Under) to the Sport of Swimming. Skill sets begin at fundamental levels, continue upward, and consistently develop skilled and knowledgeable athletes physically, technically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. D Group Swimmers are encouraged to be multi disciplined and multi sport athletes.
Prerequisite: complete the Stingrays’ FUNdamentals Swim School program, display skills and appropriate knowledge of each stroke, reflect group skills, and respects the training environment.
Training & Performance Requirements: Physical, Technical, Mental skills
- Turn-focused 100m Freestyle: Swimmer must complete 100m with flip turns, unbroken streamline to the surface, steady kick throughout, with bilateral breathing.
- Training Guidelines – athlete must understand and perform independently:
- 8 x 25 Freestyle :50 interval
- 8 x 25 non Freestyle :60 interval
- 100m Flutter Kick <3:00
- 300 IM kds
- Competition Guidelines:
- Swimmer has raced 1 x 50 per stroke in Competition
- Swimmer has proven abilities for 200m Freestyle <6:00, 100 Individual Medley <3:00
- Swimmer is expected to race all 4 strokes every Cycle
- Swimmer is expected to race at a minimum of 1 x home + 1 x away competition every Cycle
- In addition to the above guidelines, DST Staff have the final decision on each individual placement, ie “coaches’ discretion”
Attendance Requirement:
80% attendance is recommended in this group for swimmer to progress.
Families please note that succession plan for our D Group Swimmers are to base their weekly schedule on:
- D Group (entry): Mon & Thurs
- D Group (full): Mon, Wed, Thurs
- D Group (transition to C): Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri
--> Movement from D Group entry --> full --> transition to C Group is at Coaches’ discretion. Swimmers will have 1 month of ‘visits’ prior to making the complete move. Once this calendar month is complete, the Swimmer will either make the complete move or will lose ‘invite’ privileges until a future date per the Coaches’ discretion.
--> While this program is focused on Swimmers ages 11yrs&Under, Swimmers who age up to 12yrs during their season of participation are welcome to complete the season in D Group, if appropriate. In the following season, those Swimmers will have the option to either A) move to C Group, or B) move to Fit4Life.
(pg14)
D Group – Entry Level: Mon & Thurs
This program is the continuance of developing the young competitive swimmer with competition being at the (novice) Regional level; typically 8 – 10yrs of age with a maximum age for entry being 11yrs of age. Swimmers will work to solidify each stroke’s Swimming specific rules as well as refining the 4 Swimming strokes and expand their endurance with an eye towards improving their Swimming for competition. Swimmers at this level are keen on improving their physical and technical skills. Mental skills training is introduced.
Participation in competition is encouraged for all participants at least 1 x per Cycle (3 mo period). Competitions will be held on Vancouver Island and at a 4 – 6wk interval. Swimmers who achieve any Time Standards for Invitationals, Championships, etc will be invited to attend. Parent volunteer as an Official is expected at all DST hosted competitions.
Equipment required for D Group (entry level):
- Team Gear: DST top, DST Cap
- Training Gear*: Skipping rope, Personal Kickboard, Equipment Bag
- *All Swimmers will have 1 mo to secure their own equipment. Inaction will result in DST automatically providing this equipment and invoicing the family the appropriate amount(s)
D Group – Full program: Mon, Wed, & Thurs
This program is the focus of the “D Group” program where the swimmers attend their 3 water sessions per week. Athletes will work on competitive stroke fundamentals, the advanced basics of starts and turns, and their ability to swim more extended events. This group also aims to earn their invite to the Vancouver Island Regional (VIR) Championships. Competitions are held all over Vancouver Island and are typically 4 – 6wks apart. Parent volunteer as an Official is expected at all DST hosted competitions.
Equipment required for D Group (full program):
- Team Gear: DST top, DST Cap
- Training Gear*: Skipping rope, Personal Kickboard, Equipment Bag, Fins, Pull Buoy
- *All Swimmers will have 1 mo to secure their own equipment. Inaction will result in DST automatically providing this equipment and invoicing the family the appropriate amount(s)
D Group – Transition to C Group: Mon, Wed, Thurs, & Fri
This program is the pathway for the skilled swimmers showing interest and enthusiasm of being competitive with their peers within the Vancouver Island Region (VIR); typically 9 – 11yrs of age. The primary focus of this group is the technical improvement in all strokes, distances, turns, and starts. The secondary focus of the group is learning the Sport of Swimming, including the rules, nutrition, and self management at practices and Meets. Endurance training is not the primary focus of this group. Any “endurance” improvements will happen as a natural product of learning and rehearsing.
In cooperation with both the D Group & C Group Program Coordinators, the Swimmer will be invited to attend a C Group session in lieu of their typical D Group session per week to a maximum of 1 calendar month. Families can expect the invite being sent when the DST Staff have determined swimmer readiness within the physical, technical, mental, emotional, and social expectations of the next level. DST Staff endeavor to create a positive experience for all members and so appropriate timing within the season to commence the swimmer visitations is also a consideration.
Equipment required for D Group (transition to C):
- Team Gear: DST top, DST Cap
- Training Gear*: Skipping rope, Personal Kickboard, Equipment Bag, Fins, Pull Buoy, Snorkel
- *All Swimmers will have 1 mo to secure their own equipment. Inaction will result in DST automatically providing this equipment and invoicing the family the appropriate amount(s)
| D Group Annual Costs | Membership Dues | |||
| Swimming Canada / Swim BC Registration | DST Account Activation | Team Support Points | Annual dues w/monthly payment option | |
| $164.50 | $50 | “pay as you go” |
$232 3 - 4 sessions/wk |
$168 2 sessions/wk |
(pg15)
Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations
The Duncan Swim Team subscribes to the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and its Appropriate Athlete Development (AAD) model for long term development in sport and physical activity, in its entirety.
All DST Staff are trained and certified through the NCCP, are members of the Canadian Swim Coaches Association (CSCA), and meet the Swimming Canada / Swim BC coach registration requirements; including but not limited to: NCCP Making Ethical Decisions, Coaches Association of Canada’s Safe Sport Training, and Respect in Sport Coach Program, registered annually.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Challenge Group: Divisional Development Program
Program Coordinator: Riley Janes riley@duncanstingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: Learn to Train & Train to Train
Weekly Program commitment: 4 – 5 water sessions, 1 Physical Literacy session
Annual Season: 22sept2025 – 15july2026
w/ Cycles 22sept – 04jan, 05jan – 29mar, 30mar – 15july
“C Group”: This level of our program is for highly motivated athletes ages 10 – 14yrs who are committed to long-term development and have met all of the listed group prerequisites. The group’s focus is learning to training, mastering more sophisticated techniques, and exposing the swimmer to expanding the aspects of Competitive Swimming and the sporting lifestyle. Training emphasis will consist of skill, physiology, and mental development. To promote continued improvement through the Stingrays’ long-term development plan, as well as success in training at the Challenge level, requires elevated and consistent commitment from its athletes.
Swimmers will have 12 – 15 competitions per year, highlighted by a Regional, Divisional, Provincial, or National Championship.
Prerequisites: Swimmers who have proven the ability to race a 200 IM, 400 Freestyle, 100s of all strokes, and exceed the VIR Time Standards (10&U age category) for minimum 3 strokes will be considered to join in with the Challenge Group.
Swimmers must demonstrate an ability to contribute to the overall team success through a positive attitude, strong work ethic, sportsmanship, coachability, and commitment to their training and competition.
Training & Performance Requirements: Physical, Mental
- Turn-focused 100m Freestyle. Must complete 100m with flip turns, unbroken streamline to the surface with 2 (or more) dolphin kicks to the surface, steady kick throughout, with bilateral breathing.
- Training Guidelines – athlete must understand and perform independently, utilizing their racing skills:
- 1 x 50m of each stroke <1:00, legally
- 12 x 50 Freestyle 1:05 interval, 8 x 50 non Freestyle 1:20 interval
- 200m Flutter Kick <5:00
- Ability to count own repetitions and follow pace clock on intervals 1:20/1:40/:55/:50
- Competition Guidelines:
- 200m Freestyle <3:40, 200 Individual Medley <4:20
- Swimmer is expected to race all 4 strokes + distance Freestyle every Cycle
- Swimmer is expected to race a minimum of 2 home + 2 away competition in SC & LC season
- In addition to the above guidelines, DST Staff have the final decision on each individual placement, ie “coaches’ discretion”
Attendance Requirement:
80% attendance is recommended in this group for swimmer to progress. “Attendance” for the session includes completing 100% of the training session. Families can anchor their week on the base C Group water sessions of: Tues PM & Fri PM and then select 1 - 3 more sessions.
Failure to meet these group requirements will result in a re-evaluation of the Swimmer’s position in the program by the Lead Coach and the Head Coach. Evaluations are made on a monthly basis.
(pg16)
Physical Literacy / Strength & Conditioning
Swimmers’ education for their dryland training is a must. To ensure safety and maximize teaching & learning opportunities for the Team as a whole, we are encouraging Swimmers to commit and engage in their dryland training as much as their water training. The DST Physical Literacy program is a mandatory pre requisite to the DST Strength & Conditioning program led by DST Staff member Jacob Hamilton.
Equipment required for C Group:
- Team Gear: DST top, DST Cap
- Training Gear*: Skipping rope, Personal Kickboard, Fins, Pull Buoy, Snorkel
- *All Swimmers will have 1 mo to secure their own equipment. Inaction will result in DST automatically providing this equipment and invoicing the family the appropriate amount(s)
C Group – Entry Level
This level is for children ages 11yrs & Under who enjoy swimming and are interested in participating in the competitive side of the Sport of Swimming. Athletes will work on competitive stroke fundamentals, the advanced basics of starts and turns, and their ability to swim more extended events. This group aims to graduate to the VIR Championships level of racing. There may be a possibility of at least one off-Island travel opportunity during the season.
C Group – Full program
This level is for athletes ages 11yrs & Under who have been introduced to Competitive Swimming and wish to continue with the Stingrays’ long-term development plan. The primary focus of this group is the technical improvement of all strokes and distances, turns, and starts. The secondary focus of the group is learning the Sport of Swimming, including (but not limited to) the rules of our Sport, nutrition, and self management at practices and meets. Endurance training is not the primary focus of this group. Any ‘endurance’ improvements will happen as a natural product of the learning and rehearsing. Athletes will have the opportunity to race every 4 – 6wks with the expectation of racing at least twice per Cycle (10 - 14wk period). Swimmers who achieve the Qualification Times (QTs) for invitational or provincial level championships meets will be encouraged to attend. Travel meets will require a parent or guardian to join their swimmer if 11yrs&Under.
C Group – Transition to B Group
This level is for swimmers preparing to move to the B Group. Athletes are encouraged to commit to all of their water training sessions as well as the additional Physical Literacy sessions prior to requesting commencing their B Group visits.
In cooperation with both the C Group & B Group Program Coordinators, the Swimmer must attend one weekday morning B Group session per week in lieu of their typical C Group session of their choosing. Families can expect the invite being sent when the DST Staff have determined swimmer readiness within the physical, technical, mental, emotional, social & group expectations of the next level. DST Staff endeavor to create a positive experience and so appropriate timing within the season to commence the swimmer visitations is also a consideration.
Swimmers may move fully to their next group upon invite or commence ‘visits’. Typically, swimmers take about a month to become familiar and confident with their next level. Should the Swimmer require more than 1 month for their transition, they will lose their visiting privileges until the next Cycle and at Coaches’ discretion.
| C Group Annual Costs | Membership Dues | ||
| Swimming Canada / Swim BC Registration | DST Account Activation | Team Support Points | Annual dues w/monthly payment option |
| $164.50 | $50 | “pay as you go” | $285 4 - 6 sessions/wk |
(pg17)
Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations
The Duncan Swim Team subscribes to the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and its Appropriate Athlete Development (AAD) model for long term development in sport and physical activity, in its entirety.
All DST Staff are trained and certified through the NCCP, are members of the Canadian Swim Coaches Association (CSCA), and meet the Swimming Canada / Swim BC coach registration requirements; including but not limited to: NCCP Making Ethical Decisions, Coaches Association of Canada’s Safe Sport Training, and Respect in Sport Coach Program, registered annually.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(I) Believe Group: Provincial Development Program
Program Coordinator: Leanne Sirup leanne@duncanstingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: Train to Train & Train to Compete
Weekly Program commitment: 5 – 7 water sessions,
1 Physical Literacy + 1 Strength & Conditioning (by invite) sessions
Annual Season: 22sept2025 – 15july2026
w/ Cycles 22sept – 04jan, 05jan – 29mar, 30mar – 15july
“B Group”: This program is for the VIR Championships and Swim BC Divisional & Provincial swimmers working to develop and maintain the ability to perform at their highest level and achieve Swim BC Provincial / SNC National Time Standards. The group’s focus is to continue physiological and technical training with exposure to multiple levels of competitions. There will be many competitive opportunities throughout the season, highlighted by at least two provincial level competitions each year. In addition, swim-up options with the National group will be available to highly devoted and high-performing athletes. Swimmers in this group may move into the National program should they meet the requirements.
Prerequisite: Swimmers who have proven the ability to race 400 IM, 800 Freestyle, 200s of all strokes, and exceed the SwimBC Divisional Time Standard (12&U age category) for minimum 3 strokes will be considered to join in with the Believe Group. Swimmers are also expected to actively participate in the learning process of bettering themselves, both in and out of the training environment.
Training & Performance Requirements: Physical & Mental
- Turn-focused 100m Freestyle. Must complete 100m with flip turns, unbroken streamline to the surface with minimum 3 dolphin kicks to the surface, head down on breakout, steady kick throughout, bilateral breathing, know their stroke count (SC), and get their time for the 100.
- Training Guidelines:
- 16 x 100 Freestyle 1:50 holding 1:45 or better
- 5 x 200 IM 4:00 holding 3:40 or better
- 400 Flutter Kick <8:00
- Competition Guidelines:
- 800 Freestyle <12:30
- 400 IM <7:00
- Swimmer is expected to race all 16 events every season, in both the SC and LC seasons
- In addition to the above guidelines, DST Staff have the final decision on each individual placement, ie “coaches’ discretion”
Attendance Requirement:
80% attendance is required in this group for swimmer to progress. “Attendance” for the session includes completing 100% of the training session.
Failure to meet these group requirements will result in a re-evaluation of the Swimmer’s position in the program by the Lead Coach and the Head Coach. Evaluations are made on a monthly basis.
(pg18)
Physical Literacy / Strength & Conditioning
Swimmers’ education for their dryland training is a must. To ensure safety and maximize teaching & learning opportunities for the Team as a whole, we encourage Swimmers to commit and engage in their dryland training as much as their water training. Attendance to the DST Physical Literacy program is a mandatory pre requisite to the DST Strength & Conditioning (S&C) program led by DST Staff member Jacob Hamilton. Entrance into the S&C program is by invite only by the S&C Coach + the Lead Coach.
Swimmers must earn their invite to a attend the S&C dryland training program based upon their desire to learn and coachability. Safety is our first priority! Swimmers will be continually assessed during their Physical Literacy training and when ready, will be encouraged to expand their opportunities for S&C training.
Equipment required for B Group:
- Team Gear: DST top, DST Cap
- Training Gear: Skipping rope, Kickboard, Equipment Bag, Pull buoy, Snorkel, Paddles
- *All Swimmers will have 1 mo to secure their own equipment. Inaction will result in DST automatically providing this equipment and invoicing the family the appropriate amount(s)
B Group – Entry Level
This level is for swimmers ages 11yrs (female) / 12yrs (male) & Under who enjoy swimming and are interested in dedicating themselves more towards their chosen sport. Athletes will work on all four competitive stroke fundamentals, the advanced skills of starts and turns, and their ability to strategically race more extended events. This group aims to graduate to the Swim BC Championships level of racing. There may be a possibility of one off-Island travel opportunity during each Cycle.
B Group – Full Program
This level is for athletes ages 11yrs (female) / 12yrs (male) & Under who are keen to dedicate more to their Competitive Swimming experience and wish to continue with the Stingrays’ long-term development plan. The primary focus of this group is the technical improvement of all strokes and distances, turns, and starts. The secondary focus of the group is learning the tactics of each stroke and their corresponding race distances. Athletes will be challenged across the 3 energy systems to enhance their performances at strategic points throughout the season. Athletes will have the opportunity to race every 4 – 6wks with the expectation of racing at least at least 3 x per Cycle. Swimmers who achieve the Qualification Times (QTs) for invitational or provincial level championships meets will be encouraged to attend. Travel meets may require a parent or guardian to join their swimmer.
B Group – Transition to A Group
In cooperation with both the B Group & A Group Program Coordinators, the Swimmer identifies a session per week to attend an A Group session in lieu of their typical B Group session. Families can expect the invite being sent when the DST Staff have determined swimmer readiness within the physical, technical, mental, emotional, and social expectations of the next level. DST Staff endeavor to create a positive experience and so appropriate timing within the season to commence the swimmer visitations is also a consideration.
Swimmers may move fully to their next group upon invite or commence ‘visits’. Typically, swimmers take about a month to become familiar and confident with their next level. To note: full entrance into A Group requires a Swimmer:Coach interview.
| B Group Annual Costs | Membership Dues | ||
| Swimming Canada / Swim BC Registration | DST Account Activation | Team Support Points | Annual dues w/monthly payment option |
| $164.50 | $50 | “pay as you go” | $345 5 - 8 sessions/wk |
(pg19)
Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations
The Duncan Swim Team subscribes to the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and its Appropriate Athlete Development (AAD) model for long term development in sport and physical activity, in its entirety.
All DST Staff are trained and certified through the NCCP, are members of the Canadian Swim Coaches Association (CSCA), and meet the Swimming Canada / Swim BC coach registration requirements; including but not limited to: NCCP Making Ethical Decisions, Coaches Association of Canada’s Safe Sport Training, and Respect in Sport Coach Program, registered annually.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Autonomy Group: National Development Program
Program Coordinator: Leanne Sirup leanne@duncanstingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: Train to Compete & Train to Win
Weekly Program commitment: 7 – 9 water sessions, 2 Strength & Conditioning sessions
Annual Season: 22sept2025 – 15july2026
w/ Cycles 22sept – 04jan, 05jan – 29mar, 30mar – 15july
“A Group”: Our Team's most dedicated and skilled athletes working towards performing on the National level. The goal of the A Group is to develop dedicated athletes further to be successful at national-level competitions and prepare them for the senior-level / Open category of racing. Athletes in this group will be involved in the decision making process for parts of their training and competition preparation and held accountable for those decisions.
The National Development level of our program is for motivated and dedicated nationally qualified (or on track) swimmers. The focus of this group is to develop the athlete’s ability and skills to qualify and compete as a finalist at the National level with the potential to reach the international level. Swimmers will have multiple competitive opportunities throughout the season, highlighted by two National Championships competitions. Exceptional work ethic and positivity is a daily requirement to succeed at this level.
Prerequisite: Swimmers who have satisfied the B Group Prerequisites as well as:
- Committed to supporting an atmosphere of leadership, positivity, sportsmanship, professionalism, personal accountability, and self starting qualities
- Interview with the Head Coach prior to acceptance into the program
- The Head Coach reserves the right to accept swimmers into the National program that satisfy some but not all of the above criteria
Training & Performance Requirements:
- 20 x 100 Freestyle 1:30 holding 1:25 or better
- 10 x 100 IM 1:40 holding 1:35 or better
- 400 Flutter Kick <7:00
- 400 Freestyle <5:00 & 200 IM <2:45
- Swimmer is expected to race all 16 events every Cycle
Attendance Requirement:
85% attendance is necessary in this group for swimmer to progress. “Attendance” for the session includes completing 100% of the training session. Failure to meet this group requirement will result in a re-evaluation of the Swimmer’s position in the program by the Lead Coach and the Head Coach.
Swimmers are expected to attend all Provincial Championship meets and any National competitions they qualify in. Workouts and schedules will be flexible and appropriate for the age and ability level of the athlete. Additional sessions may be added by a per member basis.
(pg20)
Physical Literacy / Strength & Conditioning
Swimmers’ education for their dryland training is a must. To ensure safety and maximize teaching & learning opportunities for the Team as a whole, we are encouraging Swimmers to commit and engage in their dryland training as much as their water training. The DST Physical Literacy program is a mandatory pre requisite to the DST Strength & Conditioning program led by DST Staff member Jacob Hamilton. Entrance into the S&C program is by invite only.
Swimmers must earn their invite to a higher level dryland training program based upon their desire to learn and coachability. Safety is our first priority! Swimmers will be continually assessed during their Physical Literacy training and when ready, will be encouraged to expand their opportunities for S&C training to a maximum of 2 sessions per week.
Equipment required for A Group:
- Team Gear: DST top, DST Cap
- Training Gear: Skipping rope, Kickboard, Equipment Bag, Pull buoy, Snorkel, Paddles, Fins
A Group: Entry --> Full Program --> Transition
This level is for swimmers ages 13yrs (female) / 14yrs (male) & Under who enjoy swimming and are keen to become even stronger students of the Sport of Swimming. Per the Athlete’s dedication, Swimmers will see an individualizing of their personal program(s).
Athletes will work on all four competitive strokes; exploring the technical adjustments necessary for each race distance, the advanced skills of starts and turns, and enhance their expertise to strategically race per event. This group aims to graduate to the Swimming / Natation Canada Championship level of racing. There may be a possibility of one off-Island travel opportunity during each Cycle.
Competition is a major focus for swimmers of this level. Swimmers are striving to perform (and medal!) at the National levels.
| A Group Annual Costs | Membership Dues | ||
| Swimming Canada / Swim BC Registration | DST Account Activation | Team Support Points | Annual dues w/monthly payment option |
| $164.50 | $50 | “pay as you go” | $404 7 - 11 sessions/wk |
(pg 21)
Program Descriptions & benchmark expectations
The Duncan Swim Team subscribes to the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and its Appropriate Athlete Development (AAD) model for long term development in sport and physical activity, in its entirety.
All DST Staff are trained and certified through the NCCP, are members of the Canadian Swim Coaches Association (CSCA), and meet the Swimming Canada / Swim BC coach registration requirements; including but not limited to: NCCP Making Ethical Decisions, Coaches Association of Canada’s Safe Sport Training, and Respect in Sport Coach Program, registered annually.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Fit 4 Life Program
Program Coordinators (Youth) Dylan Kruger dylan@duncanstingrays.com
Program Coordinator (Masters) Natalie Enzs natalie@duncastingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: Fit for Life
Weekly Program commitment: 1 – 2 water sessions
Cycle 1 @ Sept 29 – Feb 22 & Cycle II @ Feb 23 – June 26
Fit4Life: Youth – age group, non competitive
Prerequisite: complete the Stingrays’ FUNdamentals Swim School program; complete all 3 Stages. For those who are new to the Stingrays and want to join the Fit4Life program, they must display skills and appropriate knowledge of each stroke (Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, and Butterfly), ability to work well in group settings, respect the training environment. Our aim is to assist Swimmers to their own Aquatic goals; Swimmers must be prepared to learn competition swim skills and swim more than 1200m within each session.
Created specifically for swimmers who have completed their Stingrays FUNdamentals Swim School education and skills, or equivalent. This group is considered a non competitive group with an eye towards fitness as the focus. Competition is still an option as swimmers will be trained to the rules according to Competitive Swimming.
--> BCSSA members please note: This group also allows for BCSSA members to maintain their Summer Swimmer status with each practice being 1hr water time. BC Summer Swimming mandates any Winter Maintenance programs to be maximum 2hrs of instruction per week, please plan your membership commitment accordingly.
Fit4Life: Masters – adult, fitness & competitive
Prerequisite: 18yrs of age minimum, ability to swim a minimum of 1500m (60lengths) unassisted, in one session. Swimmers must also have a knowledge of at least 3 of the Competitive Swimming strokes.
--> Please note: this is not a Learn to Swim program. Uncertain? Please contact Masters Coach Natalie for an Assessment
The Duncan Swim Team Masters program is geared towards lifelong fitness for adults 18yrs and older with consideration to older teens interested in fitness training. Our group is built up of recreational swimmers looking to improve their speed and technique. We also have focused Triathletes and dedicated Competitive Masters Swimmers. Swimmers will have the opportunity of learning skills related to all 4 swimming strokes: Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, and Butterfly. The group cycles through and completes short, mid, and longer distances. We also work to incorporate each Swimmers’ goals – bring your ideas forth and all will benefit! Competition is available for all interested members.
The Stingrays Masters program is excited to support the competitive experience for our Masters! Interested in competing? Please be sure to let your Lead Coach natalie@duncanstingrays.com
(pg22)
| Fit 4 Life Annual Costs | Membership Dues | |||
|
Swimming Canada / Swim BC Registration |
DST Account Activation |
Team Support Points |
Cycle dues: 2 Cycles per season | |
|
$52 Youth $77 Masters |
$10 | "pay as you go" |
$614 2 sessions / wk |
$385 1 session / wk |
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Solo Stingrays
Program Coordinator: Leanne Sirup leanne@duncastingrays.com
NCCP AAD phase: Fit for Life
Weekly Program commitment: tbd
“Solo Stingrays”: The DST Staff are available for private / semi private sessions (max 2 swimmers of similar ability). Cost and scheduling is dependent upon CAC rental and Staff availability.
Prerequisite: none.
Program development is at discretion of attending DST Staff member in consultation with the family. Goals for participation will be requested. Timelines & duration will be discussed with attending DST Staff member.
|
Solo Stingrays Cycle Costs 2 Cycles per Season (Sept - Feb, Feb - June) |
Membership Dues | |||
| Swimming Canada / Swim BC Registration | DST Account Activation | Team Support Points | costs per hour half hour rates also available |
|
| $10 | $10 | nil |
INCLUDED in rate
|
DST Staff set their own rates. Please send requests to program Lead leanne@duncanstingrays.com Point of reference: |
To note: the Solo Stingrays program is semi independent from the DST general membership.
General Information, DST Consent Forms, and Membership policies are applicable. DST Staff member has the full discretion of program creation and implementation. “See Yourself Swimming” trial is applicable upon entering the DST general program.
(pg23)
Stingrays Hosted Competition Dates
The Duncan Swim Team is striving to create greater competitive experiences for our Swimmers as well as supporting the Swimming Community as a whole.
With DST supporting the swimming community in hosting these competitions, it brings a healthy financial benefit to our Team - which translates into reducing everyone’s fees. We encourage ALL DST members to support the swimming community that your child(ren) benefits from by volunteering where possible.
For information and guidance on how to sign up online, please contact our Team’s Volunteers Coordinator Stacey W at volunteers@duncanstingrays.com For information on how to progress through your own Officials Certification pathway, please contact our Team’s Officials Administrator Carrie M at officials@duncanstingrays.com
Stingrays’ Annual Orange & Black Time Trials (unsanctioned):
| DATES: 1) Friday, 05dec2025 2) Friday, 27feb2026 3) Friday, 19jun2026 |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● FUNdamentals: Active Start & Stages 1 – 3 ● Fit4Life Youth & Masters ● D Group ● C Group optional ● C/B/A Groups leadership |
FAMILIES: this is the very first level of competition and events hosted by DST for DST. This is the perfect 1st step for YOU to take as a volunteer! Please be sure to use the Job Signup button to ensure credit towards your Team Support Points. |
Vancouver Island Region (VIR) “Level UP” Competitions (unsanctioned):
| DATES: 4) Saturday, 08nov2025 5) Saturday, 07feb2026 6) Saturday, 02may2026 7) Sunday, 14jun2026 |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● FUNdamentals Stages 2 & 3 ● Fit4Life Youth ● D Group ● C Group potential |
FAMILIES: these are the entry level of competition and events hosted by DST for the rest of the Vancouver Island Region (VIR). For our young swimmers to participate, it will require assistance from ALL families of those attending. Please be sure to use the Job Signup button to ensure credit towards your Team Support Points. |
Stingrays’ Annual Competitions (Sanctioned):
| DATES: 8) Fri 12dec & Sat 13dec2025 DST Winter Break In’l 9) Fri 06mar & Sat 07mar2026 DST Spring Break Inv’l 10) Fri 12jun & Sat 13jun2026 DST June Jamboree |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● D Group ● C Group ● B Group potential ● A Group potential |
FAMILIES: We, at DST, consider the needs of our swimming community and use the guideline of volunteering when your Swimmer is participating. Please be sure to use the Job Signup button to ensure credit towards your Team Support Points. |
MAJOR Competitions requiring FULL TEAM SUPPORT (Sanctioned):
| DATES: • June 2027 Swim BC Divisionals: bid TBD |
PARTICIPATING GROUPS: ● D Group: if qualified ● C Group: if qualified ● B Group: if qualified ● A Group: if qualified |
FAMILIES: DST is on a hosting rotation for the VIR Champs (every 3yrs). With the support of Swim BC, DST is aiming to become more prominent on the Provincial stage and is working towards hosting privileges with one of the main criteria for hosting is having qualified Officials. |
(pg24)
DST Rights & Responsibilities
The Duncan Swim Team is committed to inspire every person in its organization by providing opportunities to develop skills, knowledge and values necessary for each individual to become a capable and contributing participant in the swimming community.
Each and every member has a role and can positively affect the success of the Team; how do you affect the Team? As a member of the Duncan Swim Team, all must understand that their participation in this program is a privilege and strive to be the best athlete, teammate, and competitor by acting respectfully and positively in all instances.
DST Swimmer Code of Conduct
As a member of the Duncan Swim Team, all swimmers must adhere to the rules and regulations of the Swim Team. Swimmers that do not adhere to these rules will require a review of the swimmer’s participation and / or membership with the Team by the Swimmer’s Coach, and / or the Director of Operations, and / or Team President. Here are the general guidelines to be a great Stingray:
|
|
Travel Meets & Team Travel: these rules and those established by the Coach and / or Chaperone are sufficient grounds for swimmers to be withdrawn from the meet and be sent home at their own expense, based upon the discretion of both the Coach and the Chaperone.
| Swimmers have the right to: | Swimmers have the responsibility to: |
|
|
(pg25)
DST Parent / Guardian Code of Conduct
|
|
| Parents / Families have the right to: | Parents / Families have the responsibility to: |
|
|
(pg 26)
DST Staff Code of Conduct
The Duncan Swim Team Staff are members of the Canadian Swimming Coaches Association and adhere to Swimming / Natation Canada’s (SNC) Code of Conduct & Professional Ethics Policy. All DST Staff have been trained and certified with the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). Further to that, Coaches registered with SNC, respect the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS), commonly known as the Safe Sport Principles, and are fully Coach Compliant with Swim BC / SNC; assessed annually, completing an annual Criminal Record Check for the Vulnerable Sector.
The Duncan Swim Team Staff are here to help your child succeed. This is our workplace: we expect to be treated with respect and consideration; no different than yourself at your workplace. We expect that the swimmers will participate and be involved in a productive manner. We also expect Families to trust the Coach with the Swimmer’s development and to let the Coach be the Coach.
|
| DST Staff have the right to: | DST Staff have the responsibility to: |
|
|
Non compliance with any of the aforementioned Codes of Conduct + the Rights & Responsibilities is grounds to have one’s membership reviewed and / or revoked.
Please see DST Disciplinary Process at the end of this Registration Information Booklet.
(pg27)
Stingrays’ Parents Role
As a parent / guardian of a swimmer, families understand that Swimming is simply a sport that their child does. The role of the Swimming Family is to support, love, and encourage their child. Swimming teaches children many life skills and can build one’s character. The Stingrays Coaches will help teach the swimmers about commitment, work ethic, teamwork, living a healthy lifestyle, managing their time, (and so much more!) not just how to swim fast. Support the Coach and the Stingrays program, and your Swimmer(s) will benefit from this support.
Children progress at different rates and areas at different times. This includes the four main skills taught by our Coaches: physical, mental/emotional, technical, and tactical. This is not a linear path, and your Coaches are here to support your Swimmer’s growth and development through their successes and even failures.
(triangle illustration)
The 3 way partnership of:
- The Swimmer,
- The Parent/Support, and
- The Coach
can be illustrated by a simple triangle. We all have our roles in this partnership and by respecting the others’ role (corner of the triangle), we will be able to positively affect the Swimmer within our triangle. Stepping across the triangle and imposing ourselves on another’s role will see the inevitable collapse of the triangle and as a result, the Swimmer will be negatively affected. We’re all here to support the Swimmer. If you feel that your Swimmer’s Coach is not, please do address your concerns early, directly with your Swimmer’s Coach. By doing so, we’ll all positively affect our Swimmer, their development, and their overall involvement & enjoyment within the Sport.
You can support your child by being a positive role model through these times, not a coach. Please help the Coaches support the growth of your child in all facets of the sport as it is our belief that a well-rounded athlete is one that will ultimately grow to become an independent, well-rounded adult. Should an issue arise, please set up an appointment to discuss this with your child’s coach. If you require further information, please forward your concerns to the Head Coach.
Lastly, swim clubs are primarily driven by their members. We encourage parents to volunteer and support the Stingrays with any ideas that will help the team grow, be a better organization, or assist with building a successful environment for all the children on our Team.
(pg28)
DST’s Conflict Resolution Procedures
With everyone’s help, we can continue to provide a program that is inclusive to all and allows for all of our members to grow at the pace that will most benefit their manner of learning and growth. Each person is responsible for his / her behaviour and is capable of making appropriate choices. It is therefore the responsibility of coaches, families, and all others associated with DST to encourage and enforce appropriate behaviour and good decision making when involving themselves in DST functions.
Should any party involved with the conflict conduct themselves contrary to the predetermined Conflict Resolution Flowchart outlined below, the offending party agrees to proceed immediately to the Parental & Swimmer suspension until the issue is resolved. As outlined on the next page: DST Disciplinary Process.
Abusive speech, swearing, aggressive body language, and hostile actions WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. Any member displaying any of the aforementioned will result in their Swimmer being immediately suspended with all DST participation privileges being revoked until the issue is resolved.
We are all working together for the betterment of our Swimmer. As a member, we implore you to respect the Duncan Swim Team processes, as is expected of all Stingrays members, and ensure the deck is a safe space for all.
| Conflict Resolution Flowchart | |
|
In keeping with the Team Philosophy outlined in the Parent Handbook, all communication between families and coaches should be respectful and constructive. Aggressive or abusive language is not tolerated. When a family has questions or doubts about what is happening at the pool, the first step is to talk with the Coach about your concerns at an agreed upon time and place - please do not make unannounced deck visits.
If the parent/family or Coach is dissatisfied with the conversation, they are to wait 24 hours before further action. This requirement allows for a reassessment of the matter in hope of calming any emotional reactions. If an agreement cannot be reached after discussion, the Conflict Resolution Flowchart to the right should be used to determine the next appropriate action by all parties involved. All members agree to these steps outlined within the Conflict Resolution Flowchart. Members are expected to start at Step 1 and work their way through: Step by Step. Skipping Step(s) will result in an immediate suspension of your Swimmer until the issue is resolved. |
STEP 1: Brief discussion with your child’s Coach at an appropriate time |
| > Cooldown period of 24 hours after any upsetting incident < | |
| STEP 2: Schedule a meeting with your child’s Coach, called by either party |
|
| STEP 3: If either the Coach or the Family is dissatisfied with the discussion, either party can request the involvement of the Head Coach |
|
| STEP 4: If either the Head Coach or the Family is dissatisfied with the discussion, either party can request the involvement of the volunteer Family Liaison |
|
| STEP 5: Following independent discussions with both parties, the volunteer Family Liaison will make a recommendation. Both parties agree to following the recommendation of the volunteer Family Liaison. Should either party be unsatisfied with the recommendation & / or the volunteer Family Liaison is unable to arrive at a satisfactory resolution for all parties, a meeting will be scheduled with the DST President for each independent party, facilitated by the Family Liaison. The President will then summarize the discussion to present at the next BOD meeting |
|
| STEP 6: Issue is discussed by the Board of Directors (representing the Duncan Swim Team Society) at the next scheduled BOD meeting. Any DST Staff sitting as current BOD members will abstain from the discussion and will be present only at request of President |
|
| CONCLUSION: All parties involved agree to the final decision made by the DST Family Liaison, or if escalated, by the DST Board of Directors |
|
(pg29)
DST Disciplinary Process
As members of the Duncan Swim Team, we agree that failure to abide by the information included within the DST Registration Information Booklet, and that I and / or my Swimmer(s) will be subject to consequences that could include, but is not limited to the following*:
- 1st violation: Verbal acknowledgement and / or warning by Official, DST Head Coach, and / or the DST Board of Director(s). This will include a written documentation to be kept on family file
- 2nd violation: Written warning received from the DST Head Coach and / or DST Board of Directors and kept on family file. A ‘2nd violation’ is defined as a second (2nd) violation of any kind compounding upon the first (1st) violation, does not need to be related to the ‘1st violation’
- 3rd violation: Parental AND / OR Swimmer practice(s) and swim meet suspension with written documentation of incident kept on family file by the Duncan Swim Team
- Final violation: Parental AND / OR Swimmer season suspension
* The Duncan Swim Team Society and its authority reserve the right to expedite the process listed above.
Abusive speech, swearing, aggressive body language, and hostile actions WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. Any member displaying any of the aforementioned will result in their Swimmer(s) being immediately suspended with all DST participation privileges being revoked until the issue is resolved.
All members agree to these steps outlined within the Conflict Resolution Flow Chart, located on the page prior. Members are expected to start at Step 1 and work their way through to Step 2, then Step 3, 4, etc. Skipping Step(s) will result in an immediate suspension of your Swimmer(s) from all DST activities until the issue is resolved.
In the instances of the above, DST’s volunteer Family Liaison will assist both the DST Staff and the DST membership. Members are welcome to contact the DST volunteer Parent Liaison independently and at any time for advice pertaining to their Swimmer, the Team, etc. You can connect with our Team’s volunteer Jenn S at familyliaison@duncanstingrays.com.
To note: all active discussions involving the volunteer Family Liaison, from Point 4 of the DST Conflict Resolution Flow Chart and beyond, must include the Family Liaison in on all correspondence to the other party(ies).
(pg 30)
Duncan Swim Team Consent Forms
Personal Information Agreement
- I/we agree to the policies, procedures, standards, and registration fees and guidelines set by the Duncan Swim Team, it’s Coaching Staff, and Board of Directors
- Medical Release: In the event of a medical emergency, I/we authorize our child(ren) to be treated by certified emergency / medical personnel. I have provided all necessary medical information about my child via the Stingrays website
To note: Access to medical information will only be available to employees, chaperones, and Board members of the Stingrays deemed necessary to access this information by the Director of Operations. - Media Permissions: Group photographs may be posted without identifying swimmers. In addition, I/we give permission to post individual photographs of our children or ourselves on the team website, bulletin boards, newsletters, related publications, etc and to include names and achievements in team stories
- Travel & Behaviour Guidelines: I/we confirm reading and signing the Stingrays Code of Conduct form. I/we agree that we will explain and discuss these guidelines with our child(ren) and agree to abide by these guidelines
- Team Support Points: I/we confirm reading the Team Support program included in the Registration Information Booklet and agree to contribute to team activities as outlined
- Outstanding Balances: I/we understand that we can view our current account information via our family’s online account through the Stingrays website. The outstanding balance must not exceed $300 at any point
- Privacy: The Duncan Swim Team is required to submit information such as swimmer names, birth dates, contact information to Swimming / Natation Canada (SNC) and Swim BC, the National and Provincial Sport governing bodies, for registration and insurance
Please be aware that competitive swimming takes place in a public forum. Therefore, competition results, including swimmer’s names, will be posted at swim meet locations, on our website, and at the SNC Meets site.
In addition, personal information is kept on the Team’s website for registration and billing purposes. Pool Queue (PQ) utilizes QuickBooksOnline services to manage our Team’s financial aspects.
TO OPT OUT of any DST Personal Information Agreement points, please send an email to DST Registrar Carrie M registrar@duncanstingrays.com CLEARLY stating which point(s) you are requesting to opt out of.
Any questions regarding team policies and procedures can be directed to the Duncan Swim Team Head Coach and Director of Operations Leanne Sirup leanne@duncanstingrays.com
I / we have received, reviewed, understand, and agree with the DST Registration Information Booklet, its contents and guidelines contained within
ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE
ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND CONSENT FORM
I agree and understand that by signing the Electronic Signature Acknowledgment and Consent Form, that all electronic signatures are the legal equivalent of my manual/handwritten signature and I consent to be legally bound to this agreement and the policies contained within.