Young Masters Competitive Swim Program
Specialized Training to Build Endurance and Master Technique
Young Masters is WeAquatics’ developmental swim team designed to introduce children (ages 4-18) to the world of competitive swimming. Our program focuses on honing fundamental skills, improving technique, and building endurance in a fun, safe, supportive, team-oriented environment.
Who is Young Masters for?
Young Masters is for 4-18 year old swimmers who have mastered basic strokes, are ready for their next challenge, and are interested in competitive swimming without a high-pressure environment.
What Makes Young Masters Special?
This program is a gentle introduction to competitive swimming. Swimmers will train together in a team environment to focus on technique and endurance. Young Masters sessions are offered 4 days each week, so they have plenty of opportunities to train with the option to compete.
Training Sessions
1-hour workouts offered 4 times per week Coached sessions both on deck and in the water Tailored instruction to accommodate different skill levels
Competition Opportunities
Optional participation in scheduled swim meets (approximately every six weeks) Introduction to USA Swimming events and competitions
Prerequisites
Swimmers must demonstrate proficiency in freestyle with side-breathing, backstroke, and breaststroke.
Swim Team Enrollment Process
- Contact WeAquatics to schedule an assessment
- Complete a swimming test for program clearance
- Register for the USA Swimming membership
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should my child be to join the Young Masters program?
Young Masters accepts swimmers from 4–18 years old. Most families find the ideal age to start competitive swim training falls between 6-12 years old – that’s when kids typically have the focus and coordination for team practice. But plenty of 4-6 year olds who are ready for a challenge can certainly begin competing. Our experienced coaches work with different age groups, so the ideal age to start competitive swim training can be whenever your child is ready!
How does Young Masters swim team differ from the Learn-to-Swim program?
Young Masters focuses on competitive swimming skills and endurance, while Learn-to-Swim teaches basic water safety and stroke fundamentals. Young Masters is for LTS graduates to take their skills to the next level!
Can my child try a class before committing to the program?
Yes, we offer one trial class for potential Young Masters. Contact us to schedule an assessment and trial session.
Where are the Young Masters swim practices held?
WeAquatics Young Masters practices are held at two convenient locations in the DMV region. Our primary swim training in Largo, Maryland, right off the Beltway (I-495), so you can get there from pretty much anywhere. If you’re coming from DC, it’s about 15 minutes. From Alexandria or Arlington? Maybe 20 minutes on a good day. There’s also a Metro station nearby (Largo Town Center) if that works better for your family.
We also have swim training in Alexandria, Virginia. This one’s super convenient if you live in Northern Virginia – it’s 10 minutes from Old Town Alexandria and about 15 from downtown DC. Plus, King Street is easy to find and there’s plenty of parking, which any parent will tell you is a big deal.
Both pools give us dedicated time for WeAquatics training sessions, so our coaches can really focus on what each swimmer needs. Whether you’re coming from Maryland, Virginia, or DC, we’ve made sure you don’t have to drive forever to get quality, competitive swim training for your kid.
What should my child bring to Young Masters swim practice?
Your swimmer needs a good swimsuit (one-piece for girls, jammers for boys) that won’t fall off during practice, goggles that actually fit, and a swim cap. Don’t forget a water bottle and a towel. A mesh bag helps keep everything organized.
What to pack for youth swim team practice changes a bit with the seasons – bring warm clothes for after practice during colder months. Good goggles are really important since kids need to see underwater for proper technique and safety. Learn more about swim pool etiquette and expectations.
Are there coaches in the water during practice?
Yes, our coaches use both deck-side coaching and hands-on swim coaching during Young Masters sessions.
Sometimes they’re on the pool deck watching everyone’s strokes, other times they hop in the water to help individual swimmers with technique. This approach gives us the best of both worlds – coaches can see the big picture from the deck and provide personalized swim instruction up close when needed.
Each swimmer gets the individual attention they need to improve, whether they’re just starting competitive training or ready for more advanced skills.
Does my child have to compete in swim meets?
No, participation in swim meets is entirely optional. Our goal is to introduce the world of competitive swimming through practice and training.
What do I need to do to compete?
To compete, you’ll need to be registered with USA Swimming (included in Young Masters membership) and meet the minimum skill requirements for the events you wish to enter.
Can I swim for WeAquatics if I already swim for another team?
Yes, you can participate in Young Masters even if you’re part of another swim team. We welcome swimmers looking for additional training opportunities.