Q  :  Will there be a bubbles program in 2026?

A  :  Yes, we plan to implement a bubbles program this summer. This will be for younger swimmers that can not swim the length of the pool on their own. There will be limited spots available. Bubbles spots will be open to Berkshire residents first, then to the public. 

Q  :  What does the registration fee include?

A  :  Registration for swim team includes swim team participation, a team shirt, and a team swim cap. 

Q  :  Can non swimmers purchase a team shirt?

A  :  Berkshire Barracuda Team shirts are also available to order/purchase but only if we get enough orders.

Q  :  What does my swimmer wear to practice?

A  :  A one piece racerback type swimsuit. Follow the Swimsuit tab in order to purchase a suit online. NO two piece swimsuits! The team swimsuit is not required but is preferred. A plain black or black and red one piece razor back type swimsuit can also be used. For “Bubbles” swimmers sometimes it is difficult to find this in their size. They can wear their regular swimsuit, if necessary.

Q  :  My swimmer misplaced/lost his team swim cap. 

A  :  Replacements caps are $5, if available.

Q  :  Are swim goggles a requirement?

A  :  Goggles should be worn during practice and while swimming in the meets. Please adjust goggles prior to practice or approaching the block for meets.

Q  :  What is the swim practice protocol?

A  :  The pool closes for all team swimmers immediately after practice ends. During summer, the pool will re-open at 11:00 am for Berkshire residents only and they will need to re-enter with their pool key at that time. Open swim will not be available during practice sessions.

Q  :  What is important to note for new and beginner swimmers?

A  :  For beginner swimmers or “Bubbles” and/or new swimmers to the team please attend of of the swim evaluation times.

• TBD

There will not be a bubbles practice during the “Unofficial” practice so that coaches can be available to help all the swimmers on the team during the first couple of weeks and be able to evaluate new swimmers. “Bubbles” swimmers are those who cannot swim across the length of the pool unassisted.

Q  :  Can I discuss my swimmer with the coach during practice?

A  :  As hard as it is for us parents, it is imperative that you allow the coaches to work with your child and the other children in their practice. It can be a distraction to the coach and other swimmers if parents approach the swimmers or coaches during practice. Our main concern is the safety of all the swimmers. Please refrain from addressing your child or the coaches during practice and from standing in the area where they are sitting on the deck.

Q  :  What is important to note about swim meets?

A  :  Swim meets are each Thursday and start at 6:00 pm. Please plan to come by 5:00 pm to help set-up and for warm-ups. Schedule and dates are listed on website. Meets can last 4-5 hours.

• Please write your child’s name on everything!
• Please bring swimsuit, cap, goggles, team shirt, towel & water.
• You may want to bring dinner (or purchase at the meet), chairs, sunblock, bug spray, extra towel, warm clothes for swimmer.
• Be prepared to park and walk as the parking lots fill up quickly.
• All swimmers and volunteers need to check in upon arrival to the meet.
• All swimmers (except bubbles) need to stay in the corral area so they can be ready to swim at the time of their event.
• Bubbles swimmers swim at 5:45 pm before the meet starts for home meets only.

Q  :  What is the weather policy during a swim meet?

A  :  If there is thunder or lighting during the meet all swimmers and parents will be asked to leave the pool deck. The swim meet will be delayed until 20 minutes after the last lightning strike seen or clap of thunder heard. This could take up to an hour or more. Please be prepared to wait it out and don’t leave the area. It takes a lot to plan and schedule the meets and changes things when swimmers leave early. We will always try to get through as much of the meet as we can and at least to a certain event number to prevent having to reschedule the meet. It is harder to reschedule and make sure all coaches, swimmers, volunteers are available than to keep going that night when we are all already there.