This test is primarily for young and inexperienced swimmers. All swimmers must be registered to enter the water. All swimmers are expected to have a basic level of swim capability in order to participate in practices and learn the competitive strokes. The test is to swim across the width of the 5 lanes of our pool (about 40 ft) without assistance. Any stroke can be used (doggy paddle is OK). Grabbing the side is OK, but is intended to be for a brief rest, not the main way to get across. Tests start around 4:30 and continue as long as needed. The water can be cool in early May. It makes kids nervous to have a bunch of people watching them. We understand. We normally have a teen helper or coach in the pool for encouragement. The kids can take a few tries if needed. We need to see the ability to swim without sinking or panicking. Perfection is not needed or expected. If your little one doesn't quite pass, but is close, they can try again a few times at practice. If they aren't ready this year, we'll discuss on a case-by-case basis. After the tests, we give a Q&A session for the new parents.