Hi, team!

We are ONE WEEK away from the start of the summer swim season at Cherokee! I am so exited to get to know you all and can't wait for a great season!

A few things before we get started:

1. The team store will remain open throughout the summer; however, orders for screenprinted items are due by June 5th. Turnaround time for custom items is 10-15 business days. 
2. Some of you have asked what equipment is required for the team. I will be using kickboards, buoys, and fins for all age groups. However, paddles are optional for 10 & under. These can be purchased on our team store or you can find these items at Swim & Tri or my personal favorite, Amazon. 
3. Team suits are NOT to be worn to practice. Please ensure your swimmer has a practice suit for practices so we can preserve the longevity of the team suit. If you have not yet purchased a team suit, please go by Swim & Tri ASAP. You can get a practice suit just about anywhere. 
4. ALL communication will be done through Swimtopia - this includes correspondence, scheduling, announcements, etc. Please download the app so you have real-time access. 
5. Competitive Team photos will be on June 9th prior to the start of our first meet. Time TBD. Individuals AND team photo will be taken. Team suits are required for this photo. Pre-team photos will be taken on June 29th.  
6. Season kick-off is this Thursday, 5/21 at 5 pm. We should have shirts and caps ready to go by then. However, if you registered after May 3rd, your shirt and cap may be delayed. In the off chance these items are not ready, I'll have them for you all the first week of practice. 
7. On the Swimtopia site, if you click on '2026 Schedule', you'll find all calendar events for the season. Please go ahead and sign up for meets if you'll be here. ALL OTHER INFO, INCLUDING PRACTICE SCHEDULE, SWIM MEET INFO, AND VOLUNTEER INFO CAN BE FOUND UNDER THE 'TEAM INFO TAB'. 
8. I still need one 13-14 girl, three 13-14 boys, and three 15-18 boys to make full relays in those age groups. If you know of anyone who hasn't yet registered or might be interested, please send them my way!

As always, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Apologies for my delayed responses thus far - I'm still on contract at FHS through Friday. 

Best,

Marlee