How old should a child be when they start to compete?
Former Member
My granddaughter, who is 4 and a very good swimmer for her age, was just asked to an invitational meet in March. I don't have all the details on the meet, what events she might be swimming, the ages of the other children she might compete against, etc. My daughter will talk to the coach soon. But, I would like to hear from some of you. Any thoughts on participation/competing at this young age? Anyone out there who started this young?
Lainey
Laineybug -
Jim's reply reminded me of a situation that brings up another angle to your question.
A few years back when I was Referee for a YMCA meet, one of the teams entered a 5 year old who spent more time under water during the race than on the surface. Although the swimmer did not appear to be in any trouble while swimming, it was obvious the swimmer was not competing - only playing.
If the swimmer cannot stay on top of the water and has to be, as Jim states, fished out, they pose a liability and insurance risk to the host team and the host facility.
I would suggest not putting them in that position if this kind of scenario fits your situation.
Paul Windrath
Laineybug -
Jim's reply reminded me of a situation that brings up another angle to your question.
A few years back when I was Referee for a YMCA meet, one of the teams entered a 5 year old who spent more time under water during the race than on the surface. Although the swimmer did not appear to be in any trouble while swimming, it was obvious the swimmer was not competing - only playing.
If the swimmer cannot stay on top of the water and has to be, as Jim states, fished out, they pose a liability and insurance risk to the host team and the host facility.
I would suggest not putting them in that position if this kind of scenario fits your situation.
Paul Windrath
