Join Swim Champs

Common questions

Do I need to be fast or experienced to join?

No. Masters swimming meets people where they are. We coach swimmers across every skill level — from someone returning after a 20-year break to current national qualifiers. Training groups split by speed and goals so you're with peers.

What equipment do I need?

A suit, goggles, and a cap if you have long hair — that's the basics. Fins, paddles, and a pull buoy show up in most workouts; helpful but not required to start. We have loaner gear for trial practices.

What's the time commitment?

Practices run four times a week. Most members swim two to three of those. There's no mandatory attendance — show up when it fits, miss when it doesn't. Members who race more tend to swim more; members who train for fitness pick the schedule that works.

Can I race in masters meets if I join?

Yes — that's a big part of why Swim Champs exists. We send teams to local USMS meets, state and zone championships, USMS Nationals, and (every two years) Masters World Championships. Coaches help you build a meet schedule that matches your goals.

What's the difference between Swim Champs and other masters clubs?

Three things: collaborative coaching (multiple coaches share workout writing and athlete development; you don't get one perspective), race focus (we point training at meets — not just lap fitness), and 25+ years of Michigan masters heritage. Swim Champs Race Team is built for adults who want to actually compete.