COLLEGIATE SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING

The DEADLINE is here!

2012-01-31T11:26:00.000-08:00

Coaches,
This is your final reminder to submit the appropriate paper work to remain eligible to compete for the season. Please refer to your coaches checklist and make sure everything is in. The deadline for most items will be tomorrow, February 1st. Any questions please let me or Holly know asap. REMINDER - this paper work applies to ALL programs. Our email addresses are listed below. Best of luck as you all get your seasons underway. Go Collegiates!
-Rebecca
Collegiate Chair

Rebecca - story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu
Holly - BrownH@buckeyes.ath.ohio-state.edu

Coaches REMINDERS!!

2012-01-13T09:57:00.000-08:00

Collegiate Programs Required Documents:

1. Proof of Club Registration - Due February 1st - Submit to story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu
2. Proof Membership Registration - Due February 1st - Submit to story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu
3. Team Roster - February 1st - Submit to story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu
4. Student Athlete Statements/Tech Affidavit - Due prior to first meet - http://www.usasynchro.org/Collegiate/Student_Athlete_Statement.htm
5. Playing Season Declaration - Due February 1st - Submit to BrownH@buckeyes.ath.ohio-state.edu
6. Meet Results - Due no more than 48 hours after the meet - Submit to BrownH@buckeyes.ath.ohio-state.edu

2011 Convention Report

2011-09-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

ACTION NEEDED:
1. Required paperwork –also in attachment

1. Club & Membership Registration – Due by first competition

2. Team Rosters – Due February 1st

3. Proof of club and membership registration – Due February 1st

4. Playing season declaration – Due February 1st

5. Meet Results – Due no later than 48 hours after the meet

6. Student Statements & Tech Affidavit (will be online) – Due Feb 1^st

Note: Student Athlete Statements - Staff are working hard to make sure these forms are added as part of a online registration. This will save paper, postage, and time. Please continue to check your email and the collegiate blog for updates.

2. See attached for an updated version of the collegiate manual.

3. Email all meet schedules to Barbara McNamee at barbsync@gmail.com.

RULE CHANGES/ADDITIONS:
CO 2.1 Categories for Technical Competition:
~~CO2.1.1 Competitors shall move into 1 of the 4 categories on the basis of an average of all of the Technical scores from their most recent season.~~

CO2.1.1 Competitors shall move into 1 of the 4 categories on the basis of ~~an average of all the~~ their qualifying average Figure and Technical Element category score from their most recent competitive season.
CO 2.1.2 Movement between Technical Categories:

1. A competitor may, at any time, choose to compete in a higher Figure and Technical Element Category than the competitor’s scores from the previous season. Movement between these categories can be made at any time.
2. A competitor placing first in a category at the U.S. Collegiate Championship shall automatically move up to the next Technical Category in the next competitive season and the remainder of their collegiate career.
3. Once a competitor achieves a qualifying average Figure and Technical Element Category score for a competitive season, they must compete in that category (or higher) for the next competitive season and the remainder of their collegiate career.

2. A-Element descriptions and counts have been added to the Collegiate Manual pages 6-10.

3. All proposed rules were passed and are attached, please read.

DISCUSSIONS:
1. Team logo suits vs. full glitz suits: Proposal to have all teams wear none sparkle suits with team logo was voted down. The collegiate group voted to continue wearing the full glitz suits and headpieces as has been done in the past. Rationale: the group was split but felt it was best to go with what the athletes preferred which was to continue wearing full glitz based on survey results.

2. Should club teams be allowed to join for competition: Proposal to allow club teams to join for competition (ex Babson combines with Clark and competes under one name) was voted down. Rationale: some club programs have rules restricting this option. The group felt it would be unfair to allow some programs to combine while others cannot. The group also felt that it would hinder the growth of the collegiate group.

3. Program Development: Thanks to Jenn Hat, the collegiate group now has both a collegiate brochure and poster which will be distributed to all age-group club teams. We will be adding additional info to the packet and labeling it a collegiate tool kit. Any ideas please contact our Program Development Advisor Nancy Wightman at nanwightman@empacc.net.

FIGURES FOR COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIP FOR THE 2011-2012 SEASON

2011-09-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

A - ELEMENTS

Elements as listed in the US Collegiate Programs Manual (page 6)

1. Thrust, Twirl to Bent Knee

2. Nove, Spin up

3. Porpoise Lift, Full twist, Split, Walkout

4. Rocket Split, Twirl

B – FIGURES – Group 3

1. Kip Split Closing 180

2. Ibis Continuous Spin (720)

3. Flying, Fish

4. Catalina, Twirl

C – FIGURES – Group 3

1. Walkover Back

2. Porpoise Spinning 360

3. Barracuda, Spinning 180

4. Flamingo, Bent Knee

D – FIGURES – Group 3

1. Ballet Leg Single (R/L)

2. Walkover, Front

3. Neptunus

4. Barracuda

CONVENTION AGENDA

2011-09-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

2011 CONVENTION

Collegiate Agenda

Introduction and Welcomes

Student-athlete Statements

We are working to make it part of our swimmer registrations for THIS season updates will be sent.

USSS Rulebook

Review wording as voted in by the group at Collegiate Nationals and VOTE.

Collegiate Manual Additions

Reminders (additions highlighted in the manual will be enforced for the 2011-2012 season)

Nova Spin/Elements

Will be performed by starting with a kick out on the back as listed in the Collegiate Manual. Swimmers will report to the collegiate manual for count guidelines, but each swimmer will perform the element as best possible, trying to align with FINA descriptions.

Movement between technical categories

What wording to use?

Program Development

Website updates

Should we allow club programs to combine with other teams for competition?

Team Suits VS Sparkle Suits

Review results from 2nd survey given to the athletes

Collegiate programs and USA Synchro

Open Coaching Position - Cambridge Synchro

2011-07-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge Synchro swim club is seeking a Head Coach starting September 2011. Cambridge Synchro is a growing competitive age group and recreational synchronized swimming team that swims out of the War Memorial Pool in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Going into next season, we have a roster of approximately 20 age group and intermediate swimmers and a robust novice program along with a dedicated and experienced group of parents. Our club values a compassionate leader who will be dedicated to developing our swimmers into strong competitors through teamwork and personal commitment, while encouraging their passion for the sport of Synchronized Swimming.

This position is a direct report to the City of Cambridge Recreation Activities Manager and the candidate will be required to follow the rules and policies established for programs held at the Recreation Center where the War Memorial Pool is located. The City requires a mature leader with demonstrated skill in building a synchronized swim program and nurturing young athletes. Prior competitive experience at collegiate or national level is a plus. Preference will be given to individuals who have managed a program and mentored assistant coaches. Responsibilities include developing a comprehensive training program, including skill based workouts, conditioning plans, land drilling, choreography for routines, oversight of organizational chores such as suit selection and athlete registrations, as well as providing timely and clear communication and guidance to the parents association.

The Head Coach should be, or plan to be, certified in the required USA Synchronized Coaching Program, including CPR and continue their professional development as a USA Synchro official. Candidates should be prepared to commit at least two full years to the program. The club receives an annual stipend from the City to be used towards club expenses such as warm up suits. In addition, the fees for travel, food, and hotel used by the Head Coach for competitions and clinics are covered through the parent association.

Hours are currently Tuesday/Thursday 7 to 9pm, and Saturdays 8 to 11am. Depending on enrollments, there is potential to add more pool time and separate dry land drilling area TBD by the Recreation Activities Manager. Salary is negotiable. Pension program through the City of Cambridge. Position is paid through the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The City of Cambridge is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. City of Cambridge residents especially are encouraged to apply. Interested individuals should send their letter of interest and experience to Leslie Sciascia via email: lessciascia@yahoo.com or mail: Leslie Sciascia, 108 Oliver Road, Belmont MA 02478.

Selected candidates will be interviewed by a small committee representing the City of Cambridge, current and/or former coaching staff, and parents.

UIW Assistant Coaching Position - Apply NOW!

2011-05-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

For interested candidates, go to www.uiw.edu and at the bottom of the page there is a section for employment. Click on that and that will take you to a search page where you then will need to select Administrative. Once you click on that, it should be one of the first few positions posted. Then you can view and apply for it online.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email Head Coach, Kim Lo Porto at kwurzel@uiwtx.edu or call me at 210-829-2796.

Practice with Music Schedule

2011-03-08T11:43:00.000-08:00

7:45am Doors open – Lap swim/Open Pool

8:00-8:12am University of Arizona

8:13-8:41am University of Minnesota

8:42-9:18am Canisius College

9:19-9:40am University of Florida

9:41-10:05am Wheaton College

10:06-10:27am University of Pennsylvania

10:28-10:48am Boston University

10:49-11:22am The Ohio State University

11:23-12:00pm BREAK / OPEN POOL

12:01-12:29pm Stanford University

12:30-1:03pm University of The Incarnate Word

1:04-1:25pm Arizona State University

1:26-2:07pm Lindenwood University

2:08-2:12pm University of Tampa

2:13-2:29pm Smith College

2:30-2:54pm Carleton College

2:55-3:15pm BREAK / OPEN POOL

3:16-3:28pm George Mason University

3:29-3:53pm College of William and Mary

3:54-4:10pm University of Mary Washington

4:11-4:27pm University of Richmond

4:28-4:44pm Miami of Ohio

4:45-5:01pm University of Michigan

5:02-5:18pm Penn State University

A-Element Counts 2011 (correct collegiate version)

2011-02-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

A. THRUST TO BENT KNEE: DD – 2.3.

Begin underwater in a Back Pike Position with the legs perpendicular to the surface. A Thrust is executed to a Vertical Position, maintaining maximum height a Twirl is executed as one leg is lowered to a Right Bent Knee Vertical Position. A Vertical Descent is executed as the bent knee is extended to meet the vertical leg at the ankles, submerge with the same tempo as the Thrust. The Twirl must be executed toward the left shoulder (left shoulder back).

Judging Factors not otherwise described in the USSS Rulebook: Judging begins as the toes break the surface (count 8). The Thrust from the Back Pike Position to the Vertical Position should be a direct 1-count move, i.e. minimal “rocking over face” is desirable in the thrust action. The Thrust, Twirl and Vertical Descent are rapid.

Element Counts – Thrust to Bent Knee:

8, Toes touch the surface (competitor assumes underwater position just prior to this count)

1, Thrust to Vertical Position

2, Twirl at height to Right Bent Knee Vertical Position

3, and Descend to ankles

4 Under.

B. NOVA, 1080° SPIN, SPIN UP 180°: DD – 2.9.

Surface with a side stroke kick (flat, on left side with back to the judges, with breath), then backstroke with right arm to Back Layout Position. Initiate the dolphin beginning through the Right Bent Knee Surface Arch Position as per the Nova description. While the hips remain stationary, the legs are simultaneously lifted to a Vertical Position as the right bent knee is extended. A Continuous Spin of 1080° (3 rotations) is executed until the heels reach the surface, without submergence, followed by a rapid Spin Up 180°. A Vertical Descent is executed at the same tempo as the Spin Up 180°. The continuous spin has three (3) 360° rotations and is performed with counts and water levels as described below.

Judging Factors not otherwise described in the USSS Rulebook: Judging begins in the Back Layout Position. There is a pause in the Right Bent Knee Surface Arch Position and in the Vertical Position prior to the Continuous Spin. The bent knee should slide evenly to vertical position.

The Vertical Position at the beginning of the Continuous Spin and the Vertical Position at the end of the Spin Up should be at maximum height, stationary, still and extended. In addition look for the athlete’s ability to maintain counts and designated water lines on the spin. These are listed in order of importance (i.e. the athlete who performs this element high, stationary, and with clarity of Bent Knee Surface Arch Position and Vertical Positions, while maintaining counts and all water levels, should be given the highest score).

Element Counts - Nova, 1080° Spin, Spin Up 180°:

1, 2 Competitor surfaces with a side stroke kick (flat, on left side with back to judges, with breath)

3, Backstroke

4, Back layout

5,6 Dolphin down

7,8 Nova to the completion of the Right Bent Knee Surface Arch Position

1, Hold Right Bent Knee Surface Arch Position

2,3,4 Legs simultaneously lift to Vertical Position as the right bent knee is extended

5,6 Hold Vertical

7,8,1,2,3,4 Continuous Spin of 1080° (1 count per half)

5,6 Hold at heels

7,8 Rapid Spin Up 180° to height

1,2,and Descent

Counts and height level for spins:

7,8 1^st spin -- height to above the knee

1,2 2^nd spin -- above the knee to mid-shin

3,4 3^rd spin -- mid-shin to heels

5,6 Hold vertical at heels

7, Begin Spin Up -- heels to above the knees

8, Finish Spin Up -- above the knees to hips

1,2 Descent

and Under

D. PORPOISE, FULL TWIST, SPLIT WALKOUT: DD – 2.9.

Entry to pike position should be performed with a quarter turn (without coming up for air) with a small breast stroke pull, and kick, to achieve the Surface Front Pike Position with the hips, legs, and feet at the surface. A porpoise lift is executed to a Vertical Position. A Full Twist is executed, then the legs are lowered symmetrically to a Right Split Position. A Walkout Front is executed, with the hips remaining stationary as the front leg moves in an arc over the surface to meet the other leg in a Surface Arch Position. An Arch up is executed to a Back Layout Position. A back tuck somersault is used to exit (this is not judged). The Full Twist must be executed toward the left shoulder (left shoulder back).

Judging Factors not otherwise described in the USSS Rulebook: Judging begins with the Surface Front Pike Position. Look for accurate body position during the porpoise lift. Maximum height should be maintained during the Full Twist. Legs should open symmetrically and simultaneously during the leg lowering to the Right Split Position. As the legs pause in the Right Split Position look for “Gold” Standard. There is a pause in the Surface Arch Position on the completion of the walkout. All positions should be fully extended. Judging is completed in the Back Layout Position.

Element Counts – Porpoise, Full Twist, Split Walkout:

5,6 Pull forward (no breath)

7, Assume Surface Front Pike Position

8, Hold Front Pike Position

1,2 Porpoise Lift to Vertical Position

3,4 Hold Vertical Position

5,6,7,8,1,2 Full Twist (by thirds, hit halfway on count 7)

3,4 Hold Vertical Position

5,6,7 Lower legs to Right Split Position

8,1,2 Hold Right Split Position

3,4,5,6 Walkout (should be Knight position on 4, surface arch on 6)

7,8 Hold Surface Arch Position

1,2,3 Arch up to Back Layout (face surfaces on 3)

4,5 Back Layout and torpedo

6 Back tuck somersault and exit panel (not judged).

E. ROCKET SPLIT, TWIRL: DD – 2.6.

Begin underwater in the Back Pike Position. A Thrust is executed to a Vertical Position, maintaining maximum height the legs are split rapidly to assume an Airborne Split Position. Maintaining maximum height the legs are lifted to a Vertical Position as a Twirl is executed with a rapid Vertical Descent. The Airborne Split Position is executed with the right leg split forward and the left leg split back. The Twirl turns towards the left shoulder (left shoulder back).

Judging Factors not otherwise described in the USSS Rulebook: Judging begins as the toes break the surface (count 8). The Thrust, Airborne Split Position, join to Vertical Position, Twirl and sink are all rapid, separate movements with three clear, fully extended positions - Vertical, Split, Vertical. Maximum Height is desired at the completion of the Thrust in the Vertical Position, the Airborne Split Position and the rejoin to Vertical Position during the Twirl.

Element Counts - Rocket Split, Twirl:

8, Toes touch the surface (competitor assumes underwater position just prior to this count)

1, and Thrust to Vertical Position “and” Split at maximum height

2, Join legs to Vertical Position as the Twirl is executed at maximum height

3, 4 Descend.

Calling all Volunteers!!

2011-01-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

We've completed the collegiate strategic plan and are ready to start the job! Thank you to all those who helped, it was a TON of work but the result was worth it. If you'd like a copy just send me an email. In order to start putting the work into action we need to have at least 2 volunteers to act as Program Development Advisors.

If you'd like to be considered for this position, or would like to learn more about it, please send me an email at story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu.

Look forward to hearing from you!

Rebecca Story
USSS Collegiate Programs Chair

ATTENTION all Coaches and Team Reps!!!

2010-11-01T06:58:00.001-07:00

It is now a requirment for ALL teams (varsity and club) to submit the following documents prior to your teams first competition.

1. Student-Athlete Statements - form found on page 21 of the collegiate manual -submit to
Kevin in the National Office (address online).
2. Playing Season Decloration - submit start and end date to story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu
3. Meet sanctions (meet hosts only) - In order to have your meet listed on the US Synchro website, all meet hosts must have sanction requests in by November 29th.

If you have any questions about the materials needed for submission please feel free to contact, Rebecca at story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu.

Convention Minutes: September 16, 2010

2010-09-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

Attendance

Rebecca Story (Wheaton), Kirsten Wendth (Wheaton), Christiana Butera (Wheaton), Hanna Sphatt (Rocky Mtn.), Aubrey Wall (Rocky Mtn.), Erika Guilbault (Rocky Mtn.), Kimmy Lurenz (Menomonee Falls), Kelsey Smith (UIW), Liana Litsky (OSU), Nancy Wightman (unattached), Missy Knight (Stanford), Pete McGeoch (scoring), Duke Zielinski (North CDL), Barb M. (W&M), Madeleine Terry (Oregon OASS), Toby Smith (Comp. Ops), Jill Ranucci (U of Arizona), Kevin Warner (National Staff), Barb Nesbitt (OSU)

Introduction and Welcomes

Rebecca Story (Collegiate Chair) circulated a list of Coach emails and meet dates. Email story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu for the most up to date meet schedule and coaches email list for the 2010-2011 Collegiate Season.

Nancy Wightman – Thanked the committee for her award and ring.

Rules Passed (emergency legislation) – please ask story_rebecca@wheatoma.edu for wording

a. Collegiate Championships - Rules Amendments

1. CO 3.1.1 Technical Competition

2. CO 4.4 Entry Rules

3. CO 5.1.1 Technical Awards (award places 1-12)

4. CO 5.2.1 Individual High Point Trophy

5. CO 2.1.1 Definition of National Team Competitor

6. CO2.2.6 (page 43) Accurate placement of athletes in Technical Categories.

Technical Categories

Rebecca - Based on scores earned this past season we will have very few swimmers moving up into another category – Do we want to review them again?

Ideas: Do we need 4 groups? (maybe A-C and a Novice group)

Jill R. – I think the categories are fine the way they are and should be left alone

Group – agreed and will leave the figure categories as listed.

Collegiate Manual- Housekeeping – additions as amended

Years of eligibility-Varsity. Please see the current NCAA Division I Handbook for rules of eligibility on page 135. http://www.ncaapublications.com/productdownloads/D110.pdf

A student-athlete shall not engage in more than four seasons of intercollegiate competition.

Years of eligibility–Club. A student-athlete shall not engage in more than six seasons of intercollegiate competition.

Amateur Status (page 13)

Playing Season (page 14)

Playing Season for US Nationals (page 14)

Declaration of Playing Season (page 14)

Countable athletically related activities (page 14)

Student – Athlete Statement: Note: International student-athletes competing in the B, C, or D technical categories are required to submit a letter…

Reminder – Every athlete must sign and return the Student-athlete Statement to the USA Synchro Education Director prior to your first competition.

Redistribution of Regions

Rebecca - Possibly have state qualifications instead/ 4regions versus 8.

Pros –

Less travel for teams which means saving time and money
Teams will have the opportunity to win a State Champs title
The possibility of having more teams qualify for Nationals which would mean more earnings to run a Collegiate National meet.

The group liked the idea of researching other collegiate structures and requested a sub-committee be formed to do this.

Committee Formed:

Jill R., Barb M., Jen Mitchell, Barb N., and Rebecca.

Wearing team uniforms and caps during competitions

- The group decided to create a survey for distribution to the collegiate group to take prior to collegiate nationals.

- Results will be listed on the meeting agenda and will be open for discussion at collegiate Nationals.

- Note: This rule change would not take effect until the conclusion of the 2011 Collegiate National event.

Volunteers to create survey:

Christiana Butera, Kirsten Wendth, Rebecca

2012 Collegiate Nationals

Will be held March 15-19, 2012 in Gainesville, FL

Discussion: if the date needs to be moved the collegiate group would prefer the dates be moved back instead of forward.

USA Collegiate Programs Strategic Plan

- Went over Mission, Vision, and Values

- Broke into 3 groups and discussed the assigned group initiative

1. Would you like to add a new strategy to the given initiative?

Meeting concluded.

Minutes submitted by Aubrey Wall, secretary.

Convention 2010

2010-09-07T07:01:00.000-07:00

I. Introduction and Welcomes

II. Rules (vote in as emergency legislation)
a. Collegiate Championships - Rules Amendments
i. CO 3.1.1 Technical Competition
ii. CO 4.4 Entry Rules
iii. CO 5.1.1 Technical Awards
iv. CO 5.2.1 Individual High Point Trophy
v. CO 2.1.1 Definition of National Team Competitor
i. CO2.26 page 43 Institutions who provide false or misleading information are
subject to having the technical events in question
disqualified or run as exhibition.

III. Review of technical category C
Committee formed: Jill Wright, Asha Bandal, Barb McNamee, Kate Farley, Sara Lowe

IV. Collegiate Manual- Housekeeping - addition of
Years of eligibility-Varsity. Athletes participating on a program recognized as Varsity shall have 4 years of eligibility.
Years of eligibility–Club. Athletes participating on a program recognized as Club shall have 6 years of eligibility.

Reminder – Every athlete must sign and return the Student-athlete Statement to the USA Synchro Education Director prior to your first competition.

V. A Redistribution of Regions
Possibly have state qualifications instead

VI. Wearing team uniforms and caps during competitions Jill W.- I love the idea about wearing our school colors. So athletic,
and my AD and Assoc AD think it would be smart. Saves us money and unites
us with the other sports at the school.

VII. USA Collegiate Programs Strategic Plan
a. Go over Mission, Vision, and Values
b. Break in to 3 groups and discuss the assigned group initiative
1. Would you like to add a new strategy to the given initiative?
2. Who should be responsible for each implementation?
3. How can your program help in these initiatives?

Gearing up for Convention

2010-08-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone's doing well and excited about the upcoming convention. I'm in the process of putting together the agenda for our meeting and would love to have some feed back from all of you. If you find you have something you'd like us to discuss please send me an email at story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu.

What's the group been up to?
In an effort to prepare for convention there has been a ton of activity throughout the group. Below is a list of what we've been working on over the summer...
- Collegiate Club Programs Sub-Committee is working on an e-newsletter for distribution and a club programs manual
- Collegiate Task Force members are still in the process of creating the Collegiate Strategic Plan (1 of 3 initiatives are complete)
- Current small group discussions include
*C-figure category review
*Collegiate Marketing
*Review of Collegiate Manual

- Rebecca
Collegiate Chair

2010 Collegiate Meeting- AGENDA

2010-03-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

I. Introduction and Welcomes

II. Collegiate Growth and Participation

III. Presentation of Collegiate Chair Appreciation Award

IV. Technical Category A
- Clarifications on Rocket element and Nova
- Wording for “National Team Competitor” (vote)

V. Rules discussion – Revised Manual
- Discuss New Collegiate Manual (vote)
- Additional wording to rulebook- under CO2.26 page 43 (vote)

VI. Collegiate Nationals in 2011 and 2012
- Collegiate Nationals will be held in Buffalo, NY on March 17-20, 2011
- Should we continue to push the dates back for 2012 (vote)

VII. Where do we go from here?
- Mission Statement- direction for the 2010-2011 season
- NCAA is still the overall goal (vote)

NOTE: Please bring a copy of this agenda and new collegiate manual with you to the meeting on Wednesday (3/10) 5:30pm.

PRACTICE WITH MUSIC SCHEDULE

2010-03-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

COLLEGIATE NATIONALS
MARCH 10, 2010

8:00-8:30 UNIVERSITY OF PENN
8:31-8:43 MIAMI OF OHIO
8:44-9:05 U OF MINNESOTA
9:06-9:35 WHEATON COLLEGE
9:36-10:05 U OF FLORIDA
10:06-10:52 UNIVERSITY OF INCARNATE WORD
10:52-11:10 BREAK & OPEN POOL
11:10-11:56 LINDENWOOD UNIVERSITY
11:57-12:22 BOSTON UNIVERSITY
12:23-1:01 CANISIUS COLLEGE
1:02-1:14 UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND
1:15-1:36 UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON
1:37-2:02 COLLEGE OF WILLIAM & MARY
2:02-2:25 BREAK & OPEN POOL
2:25-3:11 OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
3:12-3:28 KEUKA COLLEGE
3:29-3:50 PENN STATE
3:51-4:00 UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
4:01-4:22 CARLETON COLLEGE
4:23-4:31 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
4:32-4:40 SMITH COLLEGE
4:41-5:10 STANFORD UNIVERSITY

Remember...

2010-01-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hey All!

As we get our seasons started please make sure to keep in mind a few points...

1. All coaches MUST be CCP and Safety certified to be on deck at all competitions

2. Make sure your swimmers are competing in the correct figure category

3. All programs should continue to follow rules set forth by their institution (i.e. Divisional rules)4. Club teams may NOT have swimmers from alternate universities compete together

Best of luck!

-Rebecca

New "A" Elements are Here!

2009-12-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

The videos of the elements for "A" figures are below.

Synchro Watershow and Silent Auction

2009-11-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

Props to UIW and the Cygnets of San Antonio for taking us one step closer to meeting our goal of building age-group/collegiate contact. Below you can read a short post from UIW's, Emily Van Vleck, on what it is that these two teams do every season to help not only promote their programs but also fund them. Great job UIW and CYGNETS!

The two teams generally do a show at 2pm and one at 8pm, alongside 2 silent auctions towards the end of October. Each year, the show is themed differently. This year, the theme was "Music and Me, a Tribute to Michael Jackson." In the past it has been "Around the World," and "Calendar Girls. Both teams spend the few weeks prior, choreographing numbers for the show and include trios, duets, 5-somes, teams, combos...anything goes. UIW and the Cygnets generally swim the opening number, the finale, and one large team routine together. Aside from those few routines, they swim separately. The entire show, with intermission, runs about an hour and 15 minutes.

Both teams spend about 1-2 months preparing for the show and auction. The Cygnets and UIW each have their own separate auctions, with separate items, and separate profits. They collect donated items from local shops, restaurants, campus event coordinators, etc. Those donations usually include nail salon treatments, restaurant gift certificates, coffee and coffee mugs, signed UIW Football gear, UIW sweatshirts and clothing, or gift baskets donated by stores or families of the athletes. After the show, the teams send thank you letters to each company with their University's tax id# so their donation can be tax deductable.

Even swimming only a few routines with the Cygnets, the UIW girls form close relationships. They are friendly, supportive, and very helpful towards each other. But the the relationship doesn't end there, a lot of former UIW athletes end up coaching for the Cygnets. I can't help but see the true benefits from this; it creates consistency in coaching, styles, and expectations throughout San Antonio.

To read the full document (includes music selection, times, etc.) please contact Rebecca Story at story_rebecca@wheatonma.edu.

OPEN COACHING POSITION

2009-11-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for a job with a view?

Love wine?

Want to get your collegiate start with a supportive athletic department?

If you answered yes, then Keuka's the place for you!

Keuka College invites applications for the position of Head Synchronized Swimming Coach. This is a part-time position (possibly transitioning to full-time at a later date). Keuka College is a Division III member of the NCAA and a founding member of the NEAC. The college is located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York State, 50 miles southwest of Rochester, NY.

The Head Coach will be responsible for all phases of a successful synchronized swimming program including but not limited to: recruiting, arranging travel, managing budgets, coaching, instructing, strength training and conditioning, tracking equipment and developing alumni contacts.

The successful candidate will exemplify leadership in the management of a successful collegiate synchronized swimming program. A Bachelor's degree with a strong background in synchronized swimming is required. Candidate must possess excellent organizational skills and outstanding written and verbal communication abilities

Serious candidates may inquire by phone.
Please call Director of Athletics at 315-279-5682.

To apply for this position, send cover letter, resume and references to:

Human Resources

Keuka College
141 Central Avenue
Keuka Park, NY 14478
Email: jfolts@keuka.edu
Fax: 315-279-5326
www.keuka.edu

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. AA/EOE

A Elements - Final Counts

2009-10-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

Thrust to Bent Knee

8, Toes touch the surface (swimmer assumes underwater position just prior to the count)

1, Thrust to Vertical Position

2, Twirl at height to Bent Knee Vertical Position

3, and Descend to ankles

4, Under

Nova

1,2 Swimmer surfaces with a side kick (flat, on left side with back to judges) (with breath)

3, Back stroke

4, Back Layout

5,6 Dolphin down

7,8 Nova to the completion of the Right Bent Knee Surface Arch Position

1, Hold Right Bent Knee Surface Arch Position

2,3,4 Legs simultaneously lift to Vertical Position as the right bent knee is extended

5,6 Hold Vertical

7,8,1,2,3,4 Continuous Spin of 1080° (1 count per half)

5,6 Hold at heels

7,8 Rapid Spin Up 180° to height

1,2, and Descent

Counts and height level for spins:

7,8 1st spin -- height to above the knee

1,2 2nd spin -- above the knee to mid-shin

3,4 3rd spin -- mid-shin to heels

5,6 Hold vertical at heels

7, Begin Spin Up -- heels to above the knees

8, Finish Spin Up -- above the knees to hips

1,2 Descent

and Under

Porpoise Split Walkout

5,6, Pull forward (no breath)

7, Assume Surface Front Pike Position

8, Hold Front Pike Position

1,2 Porpoise Lift to Vertical Position

3,4 Hold Vertical Position

5,6,7,8,1,2 Full Twist (by thirds, hit halfway on count 7)

3,4, Hold Vertical Position

5,6,7 Lower legs to Right Split Position

8,1,2 Hold Right Split Position

3,4,5,6 Walkout (should be in Knight position on 4, surface arch on 6)

7,8 Hold Surface Arch Position

1,2,3 Arch up to Back layout ( face surfaces on 3)

4,5 Back Layout and torpedo

6 Back tuck somersault and exit panel

Split Rocket

8, Toes touch the surface (swimmer assumes underwater position just prior to the count)

1, Thrust to Vertical Position "and” -Split at maximum height

2, Join legs to Vertical Position and Twirl 180° at maximum height

3,4 Descend

Changes made at Convention - NEW RULES

2009-10-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

1. No competitor in any routine may execute stacks, towers or human pyramids during the deckwork. A 1 point penalty will be applied if they do.

2. Qualification from US Collegiates to US Nationals-now based on FREE routine score.

3. US Collegiates-Varsity programs must attend a minimum of 6 competitions (down from 8), 2 of which must be collegiate competitions, one must be regionals. (no change for clubs which remains at 3, 1 of which must be regionals)

4. All programs will follow rules set by their institution.

Mandatory Certification for ALL coaches

2009-10-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

Please be advised that starting January 2010 ALL coaches on deck must be at least level 1 CCP ceritfied and hold up to date saftey credintials.
For information on taking CCP level 1 and credintials, go to:

http://www.usasynchro.org/Education/Coaching_Certification_Program.htm

NOTE: The USSS Foundation was VERY, VERY generous and is providing 1 CCP testing for EVERY registered USSS Club (a $75 value).

2009-09-28T09:21:00.000-07:00

COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIP FIGURES FOR THE 2009-2010 SEASON

A – ELEMENTS (71.00-higher or National Team Competitor)
Thrust, Twirl to Bent Knee
Nove, Spin up
Porpoise lift, full twist, split, walkout
Rocket Split, Twirl

B – FIGURES (64.0-70.999) – Group 1

Fig # Figure Name
313 Kip Split Closing 180
112f Ibis Continuous Spin (720)
336 Gaviata Open 180
436 Cyclone

C – FIGURES (59.00-63.999) – Group 1

Fig # Figure Name
420 Walkover Back
355e Porpoise Spinning 360
342 Heron
311a Kip 1/2 Twist

D – FIGURES (58.999-lower) – Group 1

Fig # Figure Name
101 Ballet Leg Single
360 Walkover Front
321 Somersub
315 Kipnus