Swim-a-Thons , General Information

2009 swim-a-thon team photo

We cannot rely on monthly swim fees alone to cover the operations, equipment, and staff needed to run a successful swim club. In the past, our club has relied on the USA Swimming Swim-a-Thon as a fun and active event to raise some of those extra funds.

Swim-a-Thons are a USA Swimming sponsored event. Our club keeps 95% of raised funds and the other 5% goes back to USA Swimming to help run their programs at a national level.

We conduct the event under USA Swimming, so information packets and pledge forms are provided. We must return all unused packets in good condition or the club gets billed, so please don’t take a packet unless you are participating.

During the weeks leading to the event we ask that you collect pledges (either by the lap swam, or a flat donation).

Work with a parent in obtaining your pledges and stick to people that you know or local businesses. And remember a big thank you!

Here is an example of what to say as you collect pledges:

The University Swim Club is holding a swim-a-thon on ___________.

The swim-a-thon is to help us raise funds so we can maintain our swimming program. We have a team that teaches kids how to swim and how to become better swimmers. We also get to compete in swim meets. It’s our team’s goal to raise at least $2,000.

We get to keep 95% of the funds and 5% goes to USA Swimming to help with their national programs.

The way it works is that you can make a pledge to me and I will try to swim one mile (that’s 70 lengths) within a one and one-half hour limit. Or you can also make a pledge to me for each length I swim. Checks should be made out to the University City Swim Club.

Thank you!

The process is pretty simple, but effective; it also builds team spirit and feelings of pride. So, join in on the fun and participate.