Heat Sheets 101
A heat sheet is a document that lists all the swimmers competing in a swim meet, along with their events, heats, and lanes.
Key terms to know:
- Event: The specific race, such as the 50-yard freestyle or the 100-yard backstroke.
- Heat: A group of swimmers competing in the same event at the same time.
- Lane: The specific swimming lane assigned to a swimmer within their heat.
How to find your information on the heat sheet:
- Locate your name: Scan the heat sheet for your name.
- Identify your event: Find the event you're participating in (i.e., 50-yard freestyle).
- Find your heat: Look for the heat number associated with your name within that event.
- Find your lane: Next to your name, you'll see your lane assignment for that heat.
Example:
If you see "50 Free, Event 6, Heat 2, Lane 5," it means you're swimming in the 50-yard freestyle, which is the 6th event of the meet, in the second heat of that event, and your lane is number 5.
Write it down! They need to write down their event, heat, and lane on their hand, arm, leg, or a piece of paper to avoid confusion.
View our schedule HERE!
What to Bring!
Are you a swimmer wondering what to pack for your swim meet? Here’s a handy list of must-haves and nice-to-haves to ensure your meet experience is a great one!
Before the Meet:
- Have a good dinner.
- Pack your swim bag the night before.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
“MUST-HAVES” IN YOUR SWIM BAG
2 is the magic number!
- TEAM SUIT: Always bring a spare suit in case your suit rips.
- TEAM CAP: Bring a backup cap in case one tears.
- TEAM SHIRT & WARM LAYERS: Wear your team shirt to show spirit, and pack a hoodie, sweatshirt, or parka for chilly pool decks or weather.
- GOGGLES: Have two pairs ready. Adjust and test new goggles during warm-ups.
- DECK SHOES: Sandals, flip-flops, or crocs.
- TOWELS: Bring at least two or three. One may get soaked, and you might use another to sit on.
- WATER/SPORTS DRINKS: Stay hydrated with at least two bottles of water or sports drinks like Gatorade or Propel. Avoid soda or undiluted juice!
- FOOD: Nutritious snacks like fruit, granola bars, cheese, nuts, yogurt, and carrots with hummus. Avoid candy and donuts!
- ASTHMATICS – DON’T FORGET YOUR INHALER! Let your coach know you have it and keep it handy.
- BLACK SHARPIE: Use this to write your events on your hand, arm, or leg!
“NICE-TO-HAVES” IN YOUR SWIM BAG
- ENTERTAINMENT:
- Bring cards, books, magazines, or music to pass the time.
OTHER IMPORTANT REMINDERS
- Arrival Time: Arrive at least 10 minutes before warm-ups to find your team and set up.
- Cheer on your teammates! Show your team spirit by supporting them while they race.
- Keep items dry: Leave extra layers in your bag or with a parent
- After the Meet: Pack socks, shoes, a warm jacket, and a hat for the trip home. You may not feel cold after swimming, but the outdoors can be chilly!
HAVE FUN AND SWIM FAST!
