What is the Mini-Ray program?

The Mini-Ray program is designed to train our 5-10 year old swimmers to become the future core of our team while easing them into the concept swim meets.

For a complete description of the different programs that our swim team provides see the table here.

What are the requirements to be a Mini-Ray?

To swim for any program for the South Riding Swim Team you must be a member of good standing of the South Riding Proprietary (You must have a valid South Riding pool pass).

In addition, for safety, new Mini-Rays must demonstrate for the coaches the ability to swim a continuous length of the pool (25 meters) at a pre-season assessment.

The Minis are for kids 10 and under.

What happens if my child fails the swim assesment?

You will be refunded the registration fee less a 10 dollar fee.

Can I do the assessment with out registering?

Unfortunately, No. Our insurance requires that all children be registered members of the team.

Can my 4 year old swim on the team?

Unfortunately, No. We require that children be 5 years old at the start of the season. We encourage parents of 4 year olds to enroll their children in private lessons so that they are ready for the team when they turn 5 next summer.

Do I have to buy the team suit?

No (But many do!). Mini-Rays are the only program that is not required to buy the team suit to participate in meets. We find that many of our Mini-Rays do purchase the suit as it allows them to feel more part of the whole team.

Do Minis swim meets?

Yes, Minis normally swim in 3 internal (South Riding only) meets as well as having a time trial. A few other teams in the area also have minis programs. We have in the past arranged for one of them to join us for one of our meets internal meets. There is also the potential for our minis to travel to an area team to swim against their Minis.

When will I know which practice my child will participate in?

Mini-Rays are sorted in to 3 practices based on ability as assessed at time trials. Unfortunately, due to the large numbers of kids involved in our program we are not able to accommodate individual preferences.

What equipment do I need?

Swim suit, goggles and towel. The suit should not be baggy - (racing jammers for boys and an athletic one piece for girls - buy the team suit or use it as an example). Some parents find it handy to have a backup pair of goggles in a bag somewhere if the main goggles get lost or broken.

I'm a parent of a Mini-Ray - How do I get my questions resolved?

If you wish further information please contact your Mini-Ray's Team Representative, Gregg Howell This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Lastly, if you still require further help, feel free use the main contact at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .