CAST Information

Capital Area Swim Team

CAST Information

In order to give you a better idea of what Capital Area Swim Team is about, we have provided some information about our club. For more information about protocol and swimming in general, please see the resources provided on our home page. If you are brand new to swimming, you may wish to check out our Glossary of Terms, found here.

Whether you are ready to take your swimming to the next level or you're just starting out, CAST is the place to be: our swimmers consistently achieve recognition of the local, state and national stages! CAST is a non-profit organization administered by a parent-run board, and consists of four basic groups:

	Developmental This group teaches the fundamentals to beginning swimmers. There is heavy emphasis on stroke technique as well as the body's relationship to the water.
	Sharks Our pre-competitive program builds on the foundation set in the Developmental group. Swimmers continue to refine their strokes and prepare for competition by utilizing controlled training techniques and participation in local meets.
	Age Group Swimmers practice with a competitive focus. The Age Group program encompasses as approximate age range of 9-13 and is meant to prepare the younger set for higher performance through appropriate training. Age Group swimmers participate in meets locally as well as throughout the state.
	Seniors Designed for swimmers of roughly high-school age, Seniors is our most advanced program. Seniors dedicate themselves through daily practice and state-wide to national level competition.

CAST practices are run primarily out of Okemos, Holt and East Lansing (MSU) facilities. Please check out our practice times, registration and directions to find out how to get to us and get swimming! But if you still have more questions, read on....

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a good swimmer to join the team?

All you need to be able to do is swim 25 yards of freestyle and backstroke. (This is the length of most pools.)

Do I have to try out?

No. We hold swimmer evaluations to help us place swimmers into appropriate groups. We will have these at the beginning of each session or by appointment.

What if I am involved in other sports?

Our swimmers participate in many non-aquatic activities. Our practices are offered six days per week to allow for more opportunities to participate.

Are meets held every weekend?

No. Additionally, you can work with your coach to determine which meets are best for you to swim.

Is there a lot of travel involved?

Most of our meets are within an hour radius of Lansing, although we do offer the opportunity for travel trips to other areas.

Can I join anytime?

Yes, you may join the team any time throughout the year.

What is the cost?

The cost is based on the group your swimmer is placed in. Payment are flexible and able to be spread throughout the year. The CAST fee schedule is very competitive and affordable, and scholarships are discreetly available to families with financial hardship.

Who does the coaching and what are their certifications?

We have a staff of professional, experienced coaches who love what they do. There is always a coach on deck who is certified through USA Swimming and required to maintain CPR, Coaches Safety and First Aid. Additionally, coaches are required to pass a background check and must pass a test of basic coaching principles.

What Swimming Can Do For You

Competitive swimming is a very rewarding experience. Here are some popular reasons to dive in:

Swimming fosters strong physical development and natural flexibility.
Swimming develops aerobic endurance and cardiovascular health.
Swimming promotes superior coordination.
Swimming has the lowest rate of injury in youth athletics.
Swimming develops time management skills and is one of the top sports in academic achievement.

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