The Old Willow “Blue Lightning” Swim Team is one of the easiest ways for kids to jump into summer, build friendships, and feel part of something right away—no matter their experience level. It’s relaxed, social, and quickly becomes a highlight of the Old Willow season.

Swimming also gives multi-sport athletes a real advantage—improving endurance, strength, and recovery. Even if your child isn’t focused on swimming long-term, the benefits carry over everywhere else. And for parents, it’s a chance to enjoy summer evenings, meet other families, and be part of a great community.

The swim team is available to current club members’ children, ages 5–15, who are comfortable in the water and can swim one length of the pool. The season consists of 6 swim meets, weekday practices over a  7-week period, social events, ribbons and awards. Swimmers are responsible for OWC team suit and goggles. Swim caps are recommended. Click link in the section below to order gear from Elsmore Swim Shop.

PRE-SEASON (Optional)

Pre-season practices will occur weekdays from Tuesday, May 26th through Friday June 5th from 4:00-6:00 PM. Pre-season is optional but a great way to get your kids comfortable in a smaller setting and try out the program.

REGULAR SEASON

Regular season practices are Monday through Fridays, 3:30–6:00 PM, starting June 8th through July 13th. No practice on meet days.

For Swim Team questions, please review this FAQ document or contact, Head Swim Coach Larry Stoegbauer “Coach S” at alloutstoeg@gmail.com. Information about this year’s swim and dive teams can be found in this slide deck here. This was shared out at the informational meeting held in May.

Old Willow’s diving team has steadily grown over the past few seasons with several athletes competing in meets. Our diving well, which includes two of the best one meter diving boards in the conference, provides the opportunity to get plenty of practice and repetitions for everyone. The dive team is available to current club members’ children, ages 5–15. Our 5 League dual-meets include a diving competition in the mid-afternoon followed by the swim competition (so members can participate in both). Divers are responsible for OWC team suit. 

Optional pre-season practices run late May, starting May 27th through June 3rd, from 4:15-6:15 PM on Mondays and Wednesdays. Regular season Practices start June 8th and run Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:00–6:00 PM through July 10th. 

Please take advantage of our great diving facility and talented coaching staff. For Diving Team questions, please contact, Head Diving Coach Bruce Kimball at kimballb@newtrier.k12.il.us. Information about this year’s swim and dive teams can be found in this slide deck here. This was shared out at the informational meeting held in May.