Questions families ask first
Frequently Asked Questions
Tryouts, cost, practice expectations, meets, equipment, and team policies.
Prospective families
FAQ's for families looking to join.
Can I try the team out?
Yes. Contact us at info.svstingrays@gmail.com. We will add you to our waitlist and notify you when the next tryout is scheduled. Placement on the team is pending evaluation and availability in the aligned group. If you want to read first, the Learning Center includes parent-friendly guides on tryouts and readiness.
Minimum requirements to join the team?
Our main requirement is that your child is water safe and can swim one length of the pool, 25 yards, while rhythmically breathing, without assistance. The tryout expectations guide and year-round readiness guide can help you decide whether this is the right next step.
Where are you located?
Senior, Silver II, and Gold groups swim out of Rancho Santa Teresa Swim & Racquet Club near the Cottle exit on Highway 85. Our cross-streets are Camino Verde and Santa Teresa. 286 Sorrento Way, San Jose, CA 95119.
How many practices should my child attend?
We do not have a strict requirement of how many days your child should attend practice. That being said, progress is based on continued effort in practice. Swimming is a very skill-intensive sport, and children should attend as many practices as they can each week to improve their technique and build endurance. Our year-round readiness guide explains why consistency matters.
Are meets required?
Meets are not required; however, they are a great way for a swimmer to track progress, build confidence, and learn to compete in a nurturing environment. We try to offer occasional time trial meets at our pool so kids can get times and try new events. The first swim meet guide is a good starting point for new families.
How much does it cost?
There is a registration fee of $250 per family. Dues are paid monthly on or before the 10th day of the month; after the 10th, a $25 late fee is assessed. Competitive swimmers also pay a once-per-calendar-year Pacific/USA Swimming registration fee. See the Registration Form for current details.
If I join in the middle of the month, will you pro-rate our dues?
Yes, dues will be pro-rated.
Do you have a volunteer policy?
Stingray participants in swim meets require parent volunteers. The number of volunteers assigned to our team for a meet is based on the number of Stingray swimmers participating. If your child is swimming in a meet, you will be expected to help fill positions assigned to our team.
What is the water temperature?
The water temperature usually hovers around 81 degrees.
What other events do you offer?
We believe it is important for swimmers to bond with each other in and out of the pool, so we try to offer activities such as cookie and ornament decorating, Easter egg hunts, hot chocolate nights, and other team gatherings.
Do practice times stay the same during holidays and summer?
We usually offer special practice times during school breaks.
Current families
FAQ's for families who are already members.
Who can I talk to about my child's progress?
Our coaches are very open to working with you and informing you of your child’s progress, but we ask that you respect practice time and talk with your child’s coach before or after practice or through email.
What equipment do I need?
We provide most swimming equipment, including kickboards, paddles, and buoys. If you have a senior-level swimmer, it may be a good idea to buy a mesh bag and some personal equipment so your swimmer can always be prepared.
What if I want to suspend my membership for a few months?
We understand that conflicts may arise, including schoolwork and other sports. Please send us an email so we know not to charge you for the month or months you will be missing. When you return, you will have to pay the registration fee.
What meets should I attend?
The team will attend the meets posted on the schedule.
How do I sign up for a meet?
Parents and swimmers can use the posted online-entry tools for each meet. Helpful guides are available for Swim Connection and FastSwims.
Do you attend any travel meets?
Travel meets vary, but we generally attend at least one travel meet a year.