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SAY Swim Team Tryouts: 2026 & 2027

Ready to take the next step in the pool? The SAY Swim Team is gearing up for its 2026/2027 season, and we’re excited to welcome swimmers to tryouts this July. Whether your child is looking to grow their skills, compete, or be part of a team environment, this is a great opportunity to dive in.

Tryout Details

Location: Summit YMCA
67 Maple Street, Summit NJ

Date Age Group Time
Wed, July 15 6–8 | 9–10 | 11–12 Years Old 4:00–5:00 PM
Wed, July 15 6–8 | 9–10 | 11–12 Years Old 5:00–6:00 PM
Sat, July 18 6–8 | 9–10 | 11–12 Years Old 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Sat, July 18 6–8 | 9–10 | 11–12 Years Old 12:00–1:00 PM
Wed, July 22 6–8 | 9–10 | 11–12 Years Old 4:00–5:00 PM
Wed, July 22 11–12 Years Old 5:00–6:00 PM

What to Expect

Tryouts are run similarly to a standard practice session for each specific age group. Swimmers will:

  • Complete a brief warm-up
  • Participate in drills
  • Perform a few dives from the deep end

 

Coaches will evaluate swimmers on:

  • Technique in all four competitive strokes (butterfly, breaststroke, backstroke, freestyle)
  • Overall comfort and ability in the water
  • Listening skills and coachability
  • Interaction with teammates and coaches

Our goal is to create balanced training groups while maintaining a high level of competition and development.

 


 

Important Information

  • Competitive swim experience is recommended
  • Swimmers should have a basic understanding of all four strokes
  • Age group placement for tryouts should be based on your child’s age as of December 1, 2026
  • Official YMCA meet age is determined by age as of December 1
  • Registration will close 2 days BEFORE the tryout

All swimmers who are accepted will begin on a trial membership basis, with more details shared at tryouts.

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the chances my swimmer makes the team?
The SAY Swim Team is a highly competitive program at both the regional and national level. In Summer 2025, nearly 200 swimmers attended tryouts, with the team roster typically capped around 220 athletes. While numbers may vary slightly each season, we aim to maintain consistent group sizes.

Does my child need prior competitive experience?
Prior experience is not required, but it is strongly recommended. All swimmers should have a working knowledge of the four competitive strokes.

What if my swimmer is 13 or older?
Swimmers ages 13 & over interested in joining should reach out directly to Head Coach Patrick Collins at Patrick.Collins@theSAY.org. Please include prior competitive experience and personal best times.

 


 

Ready to get started?

If your swimmer is eager to improve, compete, and be part of a supportive and driven team environment, we encourage you to register early and secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you on the pool deck this summer.

 

QUESTIONS?

Team Member

Pat Collins

Director of Competitive Aquatics

patrick.collins@thesay.org