Get early bird discount by registering now for Trails Swim Team

The Algonquin-based Trails Swim Team has opened registration for the 2017 summer swim season, which runs May 15 to July 17.

The team took home the North Central Illinois Swim Conference B Championship last July, and now will be part of the NCISC A conference, competing against Cary, DeKalb, Geneva, Oswego and Rock River Valley.

"It will be good for our swimmers," returning head coach John Jost said. "We will be able to compete at a higher level to challenge competitive swimmers, but also maintain the fun, social aspects of a summer team that supports swimmers of all abilities."

In addition to the conference schedule, the team hosts an invitational meet on June 24, a highlight of the season that attracts several hundred swimmers and up to a dozen teams.

The Trails Swim Team, which practices and has home meets at Lions Armstrong Memorial Pool in Algonquin, is looking for swimmers, age 5 to 18, to participate.

Although swimming is considered an individual sport, Trails is structured with an emphasis on the team and support for one another. Meets often feel like picnics, with tents and food and summer fun for the entire family.

Other highlights include "Fun Fridays" with a "Build Your Own Sundae Day" or "Poolside Breakfast," a season-ending awards banquet and a team trip to Magic Waters water park.

Regardless of what skill level swimmers start with, they will improve as the season progresses, with positive coaching and lots of practice. Participants are rewarded throughout the season with heat winner tags that decorate their swim bags, as well as placement ribbons and colorful personal best ribbons - a team favorite.

Not only does swimming build self-esteem as team members develop new skills, the daily exercise will improve overall fitness. Swimming over the summer is a great opportunity for cross-training, which prepares young athletes to be better at their sport.

"At the same time, it's an activity that's fun and social, so that being fit is something they can enjoy the rest of their lives," said Jost, who previously swam with Trails for 12 years.

The Trails Swim Team is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization that provides a positive atmosphere for physical and emotional development for its members within a competitive swim program.

The early bird discount ends Wednesday, March 15.

Registration and season information can be found at www.trailsswimteam.org or by contacting Brenda at info@trailsswimteam.org.