Frequently Asked Questions
My swimmer doesn’t plan to compete in meets; or, they only plan to be here for a few months. Do they still have to register with USA Swimming (Age Group & Senior swimmers) or USMS (Masters swimmers)? Yes. This is mandatory for all swimmers, in all groups, even if you don’t participate in meets. This provides liability insurance for the club and the members.
I think it’s unfair that I must work at NOVA-hosted swim meets if my swimmer doesn't participate in that meet or any meets. Can I be excused without being charged the “Opt-out Fee” of $25 per hour? No. Hosting meets is the NOVA’s primary means of fundraising, which keeps the monthly fees as low as possible for all members. It takes many workers to run a successful swim meet, and we need the support of all families to make this happen. Responsible and mature family members aged 13 and older are eligible to work for the family’s hours, and we can provide a letter to students for school service credit. Families who do not complete their Service Hours Requirement will automatically be charged the “opt-out” fee of $25 per hour.
It’s the middle of the month and I just joined. Will my fees be prorated? Only if you join after the 15th of the month. If you join during the first 15 days of the month, you are charged the entire fee for your first month. If you join after the 15th of the month, your first month’s fees are prorated to half the monthly fee. This is the only time that monthly fees are prorated.
Can I stay and watch the practice sessions? Parents are not allowed on the pool deck during swim practice. If you need to speak with your child’s Coach, please do so before or after workout.
Do we need special team apparel or equipment? A racing-style suit and a NOVA cap are required for swim practice. All groups use kickboards, buoys and fins, and the higher-level groups will also use paddles and a snorkel. All swimmers are expected to compete in the NOVA team suit and team cap. All equipment, as well as team caps, suits, t-shirts, warm-ups and
parkas can be purchased at CAS, located at 15661 Container Lane, Huntington Beach; 714-898-2655; www.casswimshop.com.
Is practice still held when it is raining? Practice is held in the rain unless there is lightning. At the Coach’s discretion, practice may be canceled due to safety concerns. Time permitting, you may be notified by email if practice is canceled.
How will I get ongoing information and announcements? You will receive information and announcements from NOVA by email. Please keep your email address(es) current and verified on your website account and review your email regularly as announcements are sometimes made with little notice. Swimming-related questions should be directed to the swimmer’s Coach.
Club registration and membership questions can be directed to info@novaquatics.com.
