Swimming at The St. James
Not Sure Where to Start?
A complimentary evaluation is a helpful starting point for every swimmer interested in swimming at The St. James. In one short session, our coaches assess skill level, confirm water safety, and place your swimmer exactly where they'll thrive — from swimming lessons to competitive training.
- Assess swim skill level for group placement
- Confirm safety and water competency
- Set training goals
- Prepare for competitive swimming
What to Expect
Swimmers may be asked to swim various strokes (Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, Butterfly), and demonstrate diving, treading water, and swimming set distances, so coaches can assess their skill and comfort level.
Who Needs an Evaluation?
| Program | Evaluation Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Learn to Swim | Required | Ensures correct group placement based on comfort, foundational skills, and stroke ability |
| Recreation Team | Recommended | Skip it if the swimmer is legal in 3 of 4 strokes (must include Freestyle + Backstroke), has proof of time from NVSL/USAS, or completes a trial practice for coach assessment |
| Competition Team | Recommended | Skip it if the swimmer is legal in all 4 strokes with dives & turns, has proof of time from NVSL/USAS, or completes a trial practice with the team |
| Private Lessons | Not required | Assessment happens during the lesson itself |
| Masters (18+) | Not required | A trial practice is encouraged to meet the coach and see the training style |