AA Winter Champs

Thanks to the Truro Centurions Swim Club for Co-Hosting the 2022 AA Winter Champs this weekend – just over 200 swimmers from across Nova Scotia and PEI participated with some great swims!!

Many thanks to all timers & officials for helping running a great meet and to our meet management team - Kelley Polley, Sue Jackson & Miranda Bates!

Congratulations to the Sackville Waves Aquatic Team (SWAT) for winning the inaugural Team Spirit Award!!!

Congratulations to the following Aggregate High Point Award Winners:

FEMALE

12 & UNDER

Maggie MacDonald (CBD)

Zoe Boody (HTAC)

Jezra Kilat (HTAC)

13-14

Leanne Yorke (SDSC)

Madelaine Baikie (HTAC)

Savannah Jamieson (SBSC)

15 & Over

Julianne Levesque (SDSC)

Jenna MacLeod (PCM)

Sophie Duncan (WTSC)

MALE

12 & UNDER

Seamus Fanning (PCM)

Brody MacPherson (DCSC)

Patrick Sutherland (HTAC)

13-14

Keegan MacDougall (SDSC)

Aiden MacEwen (SDSC)

Gabriel Lavigne (DCSC)

15 & Over

Nico Durant (SDSC)

Jaeger Dwyer (DCSC)

Brandon Puttick (DCSC)

Swim Nova Scotia is excited to be back at the Wilson Aquatic Centre in Truro next weekend to co-host the 2022 AA Winter Champs with TCSC!

Here is some important information for you and your swimmers to get ready!

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Friday Prelims Meet Program

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Friday Finals Meet Program

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Saturday Prelims Meet Program

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Saturday Finals Meet Program

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Sunday Prelims Meet Program

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Sunday Finals Meet Program

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Assignment of Meet Officials v2 as of March 31

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Psych Sheets are now available

• 2022 AA Winter Champs Session Reports as of March 27 are now available

• Please note that the following events will be combined:

  • All 12 & Under Boys Relays will be combined with the 12 & Under Girls Relays:

    • Event 16 will swim with Event 15

    • Event 34 will swim with 33

    • Event 48 will swim with 47

  • Coaches will be notified if other events are combined

Split Warm-Ups as follows:

o    Prelims Daily-8:00-8:45a|Finals Fri/Sat-3:00-3:45p

§  13 & Under Girls & Boys

o     Prelims Daily-8:45-9:30a|Finals Fri/Sat-3:45-4:30p

§  14 & Over Girls & Boys

Distance events- per the meet package, the fastest 8 swimmers will swim during finals; take note that 800m Freestyle Men, 1500m Freestyle Men & Women will only swim during finals (as outlined in the Session Reports)

Positive Check-In for all distance events as follows:

• Men 800m & Women 1500m Freestyle are due by 11:30am Friday

• Women’s 800m Freestyle due by 6:30pm Saturday

• Men’s 1500m Freestyle due by 10:30am Sunday

  Medal Presentations- these will take place during finals immediately after each race (during the following heat).  The podium will be set up on deck  (exact location will be identified during the technical meeting)

Results will be available on meet mobile & http://swimnovascotialiveresults.com (there may be a delay if wifi is not available)

Facility Reminders-

o      No outdoor footwear on deck

• No glass on deck

• Masks are optional

• Swimmers/team are reminded not to block the vents behind the bleachers on deck (i.e. don’t put your bags on them)

2022 David Fry NS Provincial Championships

Swim Nova Scotia is pleased to announce the results from this past weekend’s 2022 David Fry Nova Scotia Provincial Swimming Championships in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Swim Scotia co-hosted the event with the Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club at Dalplex Pool. Approximately 200 swimmers from Nova Scotia & Newfoundland were in attendance.

This was the province’s first Provincial Championship meet since the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020.

Top Overall Team: Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

Top Female Team: Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

Top Male Team: Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

Individual High Point Award Winners:

12 & Under Female- Maya Rasic, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

13 & Under Male- Ethan Kershaw, Sackville Waves Aquatic Team

13-14 Female- Julie Nolan-McCarthy, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

14-15 Male- Jaxson Row, St. John’s Legends

15 & Female Over/OPEN- Sophie Rooney, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

16 & Male Over/OPEN- Owen Nicholson, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

FINA High Point Winners:

Female- Isabelle Melanson, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club

Male- Darcy Butler, Mount Pearl Marlins

Nova Scotia Provincial Records Set:

Julie Nolan-McCarthy, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club, Female 13-14 100m Breaststroke 1:13.88

Sophie Rooney, Ella Collins, Rachael Blackmore, Ashleigh McKenna, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club Female 15-17 400m Medley Relay 4:27.98

---

We’re only a few days away from the 2022 David Fry Nova Scotia Provincial Championships!!

Swim Nova Scotia & Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club are very excited to welcome everyone to Dalplex Pool March 24 - 27th, 2022!

Very important details are outlined below; please read this message thoroughly - thank you in advance for your cooperation.

COVID-19 REGULATIONS:

• Masks are still required at all times throughout Dalplex EXCEPT swimmers, coaches & officials in the field of play (pool deck) where they are optional. Masks must be worn at all other times. Please be sure swimmers are wearing them when they enter/exit the building and are in the locker rooms.

• DO NOT COME TO THE POOL IF YOU HAVE ANY SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 are unwell or have tested positive for COVID-19. Please ensure swimmers notify you right away.

FACILITY ACCESS:

• All teams must enter/exit Dalplex through the main doors and check in with the facility staff (Dal & HTAC swimmers, please use your access cards). Access to the main lockers rooms will be available for all swimmers, coaches may enter through the back stairwell

• See the attached pool diagram which includes team seating

• We ask teams to respect the attached seating diagram – meet management reserves the right to make modifications if necessary

PARKING:

• Parking passes are required to park in the Dalplex Parking lot on Friday only. Each Club will receive 1 parking pass for their Coach; this can be picked up from Bette in the computer room on Thursday afternoon (or Friday morning for those not attending Thursday’s session). Volunteer timers/officials will receive them from Kelley. Spectators can park at meters (and pay) or use pay and display anywhere on Dal campus

SPECTATOR INFORMATION:

• Limited access for spectators will be available – however, if spectators do not follow the regulations outlined below, we will not offer access for upcoming sessions (i.e. if spectators do not follow the rules on day 1, we may not allow them for the remainder of the meet, etc).

• Spectators MUST WEAR MASKS AT ALL TIMES (even while watching the meet)

• Spectators must enter through the emergency entrance/exit at the side of the building (DO NOT ENTER THROUGH THE MAIN ENTRANCE/TURNSTILES)

• Spectators must remain in their designated area at the top of the bleachers in the deep end (NO ACCESS TO THE SHALLOW END BLEACHERS). This is outlined in the attached diagram.

• We ask that all spectators be respectful and cooperate with meet management and facility staff throughout the weekend.

• Spectator Entry/Exit Diagrams

TECHNICAL:

• Warm-Ups:

  • There will be a 30-minute open warm-up on Thursday before the relays (following the distance events)

  • There will be no split warm-ups

  • Sprint, Pace & Backstroke start lanes will be open for the last 20 minutes of each scheduled warm-up period

  • Please note that warm-ups Friday – Sunday have been adjusted to 1 hr 15 min (not 1 hr 30 min), there is no change to Thursday’s warm-up times.

    DAILY PRELIMS:

    8:00am – 9:15am Warm-Up

    9:15am Meet Start

    DAILY FINALS:

    3:45pm – 5:00pm Warm-Up

    5:00pm Meet Start

• See the attached Session Reports as of March 22

• See the attached Psych Sheets

 MEET PROGRAMS:

Thursday Meet Program

Friday Prelims Meet Program

Friday Finals Meet Program (no alternates)

Saturday Prelims Meet Program

Saturday Finals Meet Program (no alternates)

Sunday Prelims Meet Program

Sunday Finals Meet Program (no alternates)

AWARDS:

• Medals will be presented throughout finals for 1-3rd place in each event on the diving platform following each race. Swimmers are reminded to wear a shirt for their presentation, if they can’t make it, please send another swimmer that can pick up their award on their behalf

 OTHER:

• Hospitality: HTAC will be providing hospitality in the classroom off the deck in the shallow end for all Coaches and Officials.

• Canteen: HTAC will be providing a healthy canteen. This will be located above the bleachers in the deep end of the pool. Please note that the canteen will be cash only

• Results: Unofficial live results will be available on meet mobile and online: http://swimnovascotialiveresults.com

Web casting will be available at the following URL: https://www.aotv.ca

• Officials: Timers and Officials are still needed to assist in running a successful competition; email Kelley with availability and preferred position(s)

• Assignment of Meet Officials as of March 24, 2022

COVID-19 UPDATES - Province Enters Phase 3

Today, most province-wide public health restrictions have been lifted, including gathering limits, physical distancing, and mask requirements. 

Effective 12:01 a.m. Monday, March 21 (today) the Province has announced the following:

• There will be no gathering limits or capacity limits, but people should keep their social groups small and consistent and make careful choices about the gatherings they attend

• Physical distancing will no longer be required between individuals and groups, although distancing is still recommended

• Masks will no longer be required, but wearing one in indoor public places or crowded outdoor places is strongly recommended

• Businesses and organizations across all sectors can resume full operations with no mandatory public health restrictions

• Special events including festivals, sports, performances, meetings, training, and faith ceremonies can resume in full

Some measures will remain in place for high-risk settings, such as healthcare and long-term care. Many aquatic facilities have maintained some regulations for the coming weeks i.e., masks may still be mandatory at some pools. Clubs must continue to follow their facility guidelines; it is important that you familiarize yourself with them.

Please keep in mind, that while many restrictions are being lifted, there is still a moral obligation to protect each other and follow best practices that have helped to keep us safe over the last two years. 

We ask our members to continue to use good judgement – stay home if you are unwell or have tested positive for COVID-19, continue to wash your hands often, sanitize, distance yourselves from others when possible and wear a mask if you feel it is best for yourself and those around you. Please continue to respect individual personal decisions based on their level of comfort. 

This marks Swim Nova Scotia’s 87th COVID-19 update to our membership (and potentially final one). We will continue to follow the advice of Dr. Strang and Public Health and communicate to everyone, if necessary, in the future. 

Thank you for your support over the last two years, please continue to stay safe & healthy!

Thanks

Bette

COVID-19 Updates - Close Contacts

Today the Province issued a press release regarding the upcoming changes in COVID restrictions that come into effect on March 7th. The release also contains updated information regarding close contacts.

Changes to the isolation requirements for people with COVID-19 and their contacts will also take effect on Monday:

PEOPLE WHO TEST POSITIVE

Regardless of age or vaccination status, people who test positive will need to isolate for seven days from when their symptoms began (or from the date of their positive test if they did not have symptoms). They can stop isolating on the eighth day as long as they don’t have symptoms or symptoms are improving and they’ve had no fever for 24 hours. They will no longer be asked to notify any contacts outside their homes.

CONTACTS WITH NO SYMPTOMS

There will no longer be isolation or testing requirements for contacts who do not have symptoms. Contacts of people who test positive for COVID-19 are not required to isolate or get tested but should monitor for symptoms. If the contact lives with the person who tests positive, the contact is not required to isolate or get tested but should monitor for symptoms and testing is recommended.

PEOPLE WITH SYMPTOMS

People who live with someone who tests positive for COVID-19 and develops symptoms will need to isolate and test immediately, and then do a second test 72 hours later. If using rapid tests, a third test is required 48 hours after the second. People can leave isolation if all tests are negative, symptoms are improving, and they’ve had no fever for 24 hours.

There is no change for people who do not live with a person who tested positive for COVID-19 and develop symptoms – they still need to isolate and test immediately. If using rapid tests, a second test 48 hours after the first is required.

Anyone who tests positive with a rapid test can get that result confirmed with a PCR test if they wish.

People can leave isolation if all tests are negative, symptoms are improving, and they’ve had no fever for 24 hours. The Nova Scotia Health Authority website will be updated with more details at: https://www.nshealth.ca/coronavirus

Anyone who is still within 90 days of recovering from a confirmed case of COVID-19 does not have to isolate or test. If they develop symptoms during that period, they should still stay home because they are sick with something (such as a cold or flu) and should avoid spreading it to others.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me!

Bette

COVID-19 Updates

Last week, the Province announced that as of Monday, February 28 there would no longer be a requirement to show proof of vaccine before participating in non-essential, discretionary events and activities, including sporting activities.

Effective immediately, it is no longer a Swim Nova Scotia membership requirement for Coaches, Officials and Swimmers to provide proof of vaccination as part of their request for membership. Please keep in mind that should facilities still require proof of vaccination; all Swim Nova Scotia members must comply.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Thanks

Bette

February AAA, AA & Varsity Dual Meet Information

We are excited to host the AAA, AA & Varsity meets this weekend at Dalplex. All meets will follow Provincial COVID-19 Regulations.

Head Coaches have received detailed information on how each meet will run. Please be sure you contact your Head Coach for more information.

• Assignment of Meet Officials are now available, if you are interested in help to time for any session, please email: Swim NS

• Officials should refer to the email sent on Thursday evening at approximately 9:30pm for arrival information (yellow indicates Group 1 officials & blue indicates Group 2 officials)

• There is no spectator access to any of the swim meets this weekend at Dalplex

• Live webcast for the AAA & AA meets will be available at the following link: https://www.aotv.ca

• The live results will be available on meet mobile and on the Swim Nova Scotia webpage

• Please note that each meet will be run differently - it is important that swimmers know how their meet is being run and how to enter/exit the building

• There are new start/finish times for the AA Short Course meet - see the details below

AAA MEET DETAILS

AAA Long Course Session Reports as of Feb 23

AAA Long Course Meet Psych Sheets as of Feb 23

AAA Long Course Meet - GROUPS & FACILITY INFORMATION

AAA Assignment of Officials Friday PM v2

AAA Assignment of Officials Saturday AM

AA MEET DETAILS

The AA Meet has been split into two meets with updated start times:

12 & Under Swimmers- Saturday warm-ups 3:30pm (arrival 3:15pm), swim meet 4:00-5:00pm. Sunday warm-ups 8:00am (arrival 7:45am), swim meet 8:30-9:30am

AA 12 & Under Short Course Meet Session Reports as of Feb 23

AA 12 & Under Short Course Meet Psych Sheets as of Feb 23

AA 12 & Under Short Course Meet - GROUPS & FACILITY INFORMATION

AA Assignment of Officials Saturday PM - 12 & Under v2

AA Assignment of Officials Sunday AM - 12 & Under v2

13 & Older - Saturday warm-ups 5:30pm (arrival 5:15pm), swim meet 6:00-8:00pm, Sunday warm-ups 10:00am (arrival 9:45am), swim meet 10:30-12:45pm

AA 13 & Older Short Course Meet Session Reports as of Feb 23

AA 13 & Older Short Course Meet Psych Sheets as of Feb 23

AA 13 & Older Short Course Meet - GROUPS & FACILITY INFORMATION

AA Assignment of Officials Saturday PM - 13 & Over

AA Assignment of Officials Sunday AM - 13 & Over

AUS NS Dual Meet

AUS Dual Meet Session Reports as of Feb 23

AUS Dual Meet Psych Sheets as of Feb 23

AUS Dual Meet - GROUPS & FACILITY INFORMATION

AUS Varsity Dual Meet Assignment of Officials Saturday PM v2

COVID-19 UPDATE

Today the Provincial government announced that starting 12:01am Monday March 7, 2022, the following changes in restrictions will go into effect:

• Competition and events are no longer limited to the regular competitive schedule; bringing together teams or participants that typically do not play one another is allowed – for Swim Nova Scotia member clubs, this means that we can welcome swimmers from out of Province!

• Spectators will be permitted following the formal gathering limit - 75 per cent of the venue’s capacity – Clubs should work with their facilities on spectator access and limits

• Sport training, practice and competition remains at a maximum of 60 participants indoors and outdoors without physical distancing – there is no change to Swim Nova Scotia member clubs with the current regulations 

• Also, as of Monday, February 28 there will no longer be a requirement to show proof of vaccine before participating in non-essential, discretionary events and activities

• The province also announced that as of Monday, March 21 there will no longer be any COVID-19 restrictions for sport – Swim Nova Scotia is excited to host our Provincial Championships the following weekend!

 Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here. 

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Thanks

Bette

COVID-19 Update

Today the Provincial government announced that starting at 12:01am Monday February 14, 2022, some restrictions will be eased across the province.

Below outlines the first step in a three phase/step process. This phase is currently planned to last about a month.  The situation will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis and only when it is safe to do so the restrictions will aim to move into the second step.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SWIM NOVA SCOTIA MEMBER CLUBS:

Practice and Training 

• Training group sizes of up to 60 indoors or outdoors in a field of play*

  • Training groups include coaches, but not facility staff

  • Training groups do not require any physical distancing

  • Masks are recommended when possible

*Contact Swim NS to determine the number of available fields of play in your specific facility

Spectators During Practice and Training

• Spectators will be permitted following the formal gathering limit – 50% of the venue’s capacity

• Pending facility regulations

Sanctioned Competitions

• Group sizes of up to 60 in a field of play*

• Spectators may be prohibited by Swim NS to accommodate additional fields of play for swimmers, coaches, and officials

Swim Nova Scotia will resume sanctioned Year-Round and Master’s sanctioned competitions starting the week of February 14th. An updated Schedule of Events will be distributed to teams later today and it will be posted on our webpage. 

Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Thanks

Bette

COVID-19 Update

Today the Provincial government announced that starting Monday February 7, 2022, restrictions will ease for sporting practices. All other restrictions will remain in place until February 14, 2022. 

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SWIM NOVA SCOTIA MEMBER CLUBS:

Practice and Training is Permitted

• A single training group size of up to 25 indoors or 50 outdoors

  • This single training group includes coaches, but not facility staff

  • This single training group does not require any physical distancing or masks

OR*

• Multiple training group sizes of 10 indoors in each field of play OR 25 outdoors (as you have currently been operating)

  • Group training sizes do not require any physical distancing or masks while in the field of play

  • Physical distancing must be maintained between different groups

  • If coaches can maintain physical distancing from each training group, they would not be considered part of the training group and can coach multiple groups 

Head Coaches are required to submit up to date training schedules and group lists to Swim Nova Scotia.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like clarification specific to your facility space/access.

*This option is not clearly outlined in today’s press release; however, Swim Nova Scotia has received confirmation from the province.

Spectators Prohibited

No Spectators will be allowed for any activities

Sanctioned Competitions

Continue to be suspended, including sanctioned in-house time trials

Information regarding competitive opportunities for age group & varsity swimmers will be discussed with Head Coaches next week.

Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here.

We anticipate further updates from the province following the February 9th press conference.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Thanks

Bette

IMReady for 2022 Virtual Challenge Results

Swim Nova Scotia is pleased to publish the results (as of Feb 3) from the IMReady for 2022 Virtual Challenge! Over 300 swimmers from 8 age group & varsity clubs participated in the challenge - the challenge window was January 7-30, 2022 and was coach led!

Draw prize winners can be found here - swimmers will receive either a pair of goggles or a KidSport toque!!

Congratulations everyone!

COVID-19 Update

Today the Provincial government announced restrictions currently in effect, including those related to sporting activities will remain in place until February 14th, 2022.  

During the briefing the Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Robert Strang indicated “We will continue to monitor closely, and we recognize the importance of activities like sports, arts and cultures to mental and physical health; we will open those activities sooner if possible.”

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SWIM NOVA SCOTIA MEMBER CLUBS:

Sanctioned Competitions

Continue to be suspended, including sanctioned in-house time trials

Information regarding competitive opportunities for age group & varsity swimmers will be discussed with Head Coaches in early February.

Practice and Training is Permitted

• Training group sizes of 10 indoors in each field of play OR 25 outdoors

• Group training sizes do not require any physical distancing or masks while in the field of play

• Physical distancing must be maintained between different groups

• If coaches can maintain physical distancing from each training group, they would not be considered part of the training group and can coach multiple groups

Head Coaches are required to submit up to date training schedules and group lists to Swim Nova Scotia.

Spectators Prohibited

No Spectators will be allowed for any activities

Travel for Sport Limitations Still in Place

Children aged 11 and younger continue to be restricted from entering Nova Scotia to participate in sports and from participating in them outside Nova Scotia.

COVID Close Contacts

Please continue to follow the most up to date regulations from Public Health available on this webpage.

Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here.

As further information is received from the province, it will be communicated as soon as possible.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Thanks

Bette

COVID-19 Update

Swim NS Members,

New guidelines came into effect today for self-isolation for close contacts, please visit the following page for details: https://www.nshealth.ca/information-covid-19-close-contacts. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive, there are new guidelines for self-isolation, follow the steps on the following page: https://www.nshealth.ca/testedpositiveforcovid

A summary of the above changes is available in Wednesday’s press release.

Clubs are reminded to notify me of all positive cases on your team as soon as you are notified (please identify if it’s a swimmer or a coach – names are not required).

• What to do if a member of your team tests positive for COVID-19:

  • The member should self-isolate immediately and follow the steps outlined by Public Health and the Province: https://www.nshealth.ca/testedpositiveforcovid

  • As soon as you are notified, please determine when they were last at practice and which group(s) they may have been in contact with for the 2 days prior to their positive test result

  • The members in their group are now identified as a close contact and should follow the steps outlined by the Province (see below)

• What to do if a member of your team is a close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19:

  • They must follow the instructions outlined by the Province: https://www.nshealth.ca/information-covid-19-close-contacts

Please note that there are no changes to Swim Nova Scotia's Vaccination Policy circulated on September 29th, 2021. It is recommended that members that are now eligible (children 5 to 11) for vaccination do so.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

Thanks!

Bette

COVID-19 Update

January 5, 2022

Today the Provincial government announced restrictions currently in effect, including those related to sporting activities will remain in place until at least January 31, 2022.  

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SWIM NOVA SCOTIA MEMBER CLUBS:

Sanctioned Competitions

Continue to be suspended, including sanctioned in-house time trials

The following competitions have been cancelled:

• AUS Invitational – January 15-16

• LCM AGD AAA #1 – January 21-22

• NT #3 North, South & Central – January 22 & 23

• AA #1 – January 29 – 30

Please note that Swim Nova Scotia is working with the province to determine if we can allow sanctioned in-house time trials. Information will follow. 

Practice and Training is Permitted

• Training group sizes of 10 indoors in each field of play OR 25 outdoors

• Group training sizes do not require any physical distancing or masks while in the field of play

• Physical distancing must be maintained between different groups

• It is recommended that a training group stay together as a single training group for the day if there are multiple practices

• If coaches can maintain physical distancing from each training group, they would not be considered part of the training group and can coach multiple groups

Spectators Prohibited

No Spectators will be allowed for any activities

Travel for Sport Limitations Still in Place

Children aged 11 and younger continue to be restricted from entering Nova Scotia to participate in sports and from participating in them outside Nova Scotia.

Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here.

As further information is received from the province, it will be communicated as soon as possible.

Thanks

Bette

COVID-19 Update/Reminders

Swim NS Members,

Happy New Year!  I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays with friends, family and loved ones and had some time to rejuvenate!

As many of you continue to train, or are planning to return to training soon here are some reminders based on the current COVID regulations:

• Group sizes are limited to no more than 10 (no physical distancing or masks within the group) until at least January 12th*:

  • See December 21, 2021, COVID Update

• Sanctioned competitions are suspended – I will keep you posted on the meets scheduled later this month

*It is likely that the January 12th date will be extended – once we know more information it will be communicated asap.

All Head Coaches are reminded to send me your updated training schedules and training groups before you return to training (and any changes along the way). Thank you to those who have already done so.

As the COVID cases rise across the Province, it is important that you follow the Provincial regulations should anyone on your team test positive or become a close contact. 

• What to do if a member of your team tests positive for COVID-19:

• The member should self-isolate immediately and follow the steps outlined by Public Health and the Province based on how they did their test (rapid vs PCR): https://www.nshealth.ca/testedpositiveforcovid

• As soon as you are notified, please determine when they were last at practice and which group(s) they may have been in contact with for the 2 days prior to their positive test result

  • The members in their group are now identified as a close contact and should follow the steps outlined by the Province (see below)

• Please notify me of all positive cases on your team as soon as you are notified (please identify if it’s a swimmer or a coach – no name is required)

• What to do if a member of your team is a close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19:

• They can follow the details outlined by the Province based on their vaccination status: https://www.nshealth.ca/information-covid-19-close-contacts

• A sample letter is available to clubs - please contact the Swim NS office

If there are further updates following the Wednesday January 5th Press Conference, I will send information to the membership as soon as possible.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

Thanks!

Bette

Happy Holidays from Swim Nova Scotia

On behalf of Swim Nova Scotia, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of you, including our Coaches, Board of Directors, Club Board Presidents/Members and Officials for your support, guidance, and patience during the past year.  

It has been a very trying and difficult year, but all things considered, we had a lot of success in and out of the pool.  We should all be very proud of what our members have accomplished throughout 2021!

SWIMMERS

Congratulations to the following swimmers who were identified and participated in Swimming Canada initiatives:

• Owen Nicholson (HTAC) –Tokyo2Paris Virtual Distance Camp, November 2021

• Alexander Bouchard (HTAC) – 2021 Youth Relay Initiative, April 2021

Congratulations to HTAC coaches, Mark McGrann & Chris Cormier who were also part of the above initiatives!

The following swimmers achieved Nova Scotia Short Course Provincial Records 2021:

Senior

• Shane Kenney (ACAD) – 

  • Senior 50m Butterfly 24.51, 23.99

• Christian Payne (DAL) – 

  • Senior 50m Backstroke 24.39

• Adam Bouma (DAL) – 

  • Senior 100m Breaststroke 1:02.06, 1:01.87

Age Group

• Marion Synishin (HTAC) – 

  • 15-17 200m Breaststroke 2:31.72

  • 15-17 100m Breaststroke 1:10.87, 1:10.36

  • 15-17 50m Breaststroke 32.72

• Julie Nolan-McCarthy – 

  • 13-14 200m Breaststroke 2:38.69 (HTAC)

  • 13-14 100m Breaststroke 1:12.72 (DCSC)

Summer

• Alfred Lai (CGC) – 

  • 11-12 100m Individual Medley 1:20.71

• Adam Culbert (BWB) – 

  • 17-18 50m Backstroke 31.66

Masters

• Keitha Robert (HTAC) – 

  • 100m Butterfly 1:15.44

  • 100m Individual Medley 1:15.15 

COACHES

It’s with much appreciation that I extend a thanks to all our coaches, specifically, Head Coaches for their efforts in overcoming many challenges presented upon them over the last twelve months. There efforts have not gone unrecognized – thank you coaches!

Congratulations to the following coaches who were recently identified by Swimming Canada to participate for an additional year in the Select Coaches Group:

• Miranda Bates (TCSC)

• Mark McGrann (HTAC)

• Zoe Miles (SWAT)

Special congratulations to Zoe Miles, who was selected as an Assistant Coach with Swimming Canada’s World Short Course Team and is returning from Abu Dhabi, UAE this week – one of Canada’s top International performing teams in history!! She also participated in their Virtual 400m+ Freestyle Camp earlier this year. Well done Zoe!

OFFICIALS

Many thanks for all the time and effort that our officials devote to swimming in our province and beyond, our events would not be successful without your support!

Congratulations to the following officials who were appointed to Swimming Canada working groups:

• Kelley Polley - Officials Competitions Rules Committee (OCRC)

• Diane MacKenzie – Officials Certification Pathway Review Committee

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

I would like to acknowledge the hard work by all Board Members – not only the Swim Nova Scotia Board of Directors, but the individual Club Boards. As volunteers, you have been an asset to supporting our organization, coaches, and swim club’s during very difficult times. Thank you for your continued dedication to swimming!

Holiday Virtual Office Partial Closure

The Swim NS virtual office will close December 22nd and reopen January 4th.  I will, however, be available via email should there be any provincial regulation changes related to COVID and to provide support to coaches/clubs that are continuing to train.

I wish everyone a happy and joyous holiday season.

Here’s to a great 2022!

All the best,

Bette

COVID-19 Update Training Group Sizes Reduced to 10

Today the Provincial government announced they would be making changes to the Nova Scotia Public Health Regulations that impact the Nova Scotia Sport Guidelines. These changes will come into effect as of 6:00am Wednesday December 22, 2021 and will remain in place until at least January 12, 2022.  

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SWIM NOVA SCOTIA MEMBER CLUBS:

Sanctioned Competitions

• Continue to be suspended

Practice and Training is Permitted

• Training group sizes of 10 indoors in each field of play OR 25 outdoors

• Group training sizes do not require any physical distancing or masks while in the field of play

• Physical distancing must be maintained between different groups

• It is recommended that a training group stay together as a single training group for the day if there are multiple practices

• If coaches can maintain physical distancing from each training group, they would not be considered part of the training group and can coach multiple groups

Please refer to the attached examples of various fields of play in one facility that includes examples of how to separate training groups of 10 with the use of buffer lanes.

Spectators Prohibited

No Spectators will be allowed for any activities

Travel for Sport Limitations Still in Place

Children aged 11 and younger continue to be restricted from entering Nova Scotia to participate in sports and from participating in them outside Nova Scotia.

We ask that all Head Coaches please adjust their training schedules and groups and submit them to Swim Nova Scotia prior to returning to practices on or after Wednesday December 22nd.

Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here.

As further information is received from the province, it will be communicated as soon as possible.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me anytime!

Thanks

Bette

COVID-19 Update

December 13, 2021

Today the Provincial government announced they would be making changes to the Nova Scotia Public Health Regulations that impact the Nova Scotia Sport Guidelines. These changes will come into effect as of 9:00 am Friday December 17, 2021 and will remain in place until reviewed in January 2022.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SWIM NOVA SCOTIA MEMBER CLUBS:

TRAINING GROUP SIZES:

• 60 indoors in each field of play 

• Group training sizes do not require any physical distancing or masks while in the field of play

• Physical distancing must be maintained between different groups

• The group size of 60 in the field of play does not include facility or venue staff

Please refer to the attached examples of various fields of play in one facility

MASKS:

• A mask must be always worn while entering and exiting facilities as per Provincial regulations, however:

o    Swim Nova Scotia members, including coaches, officials, swimmers, and volunteers may remove their masks upon arrival to the pool deck (field of play) for the duration of the training session due to poor ventilation in aquatic facilities. They do not have to be actively participating in officiating, swimming, or coaching to remove their mask

o   The Province has indicated that the field of play for Swim Nova Scotia activities is the pool deck

o   Spectators (if permitted by the facility) are required to always wear masks and remain in their designated area

COMPETITIONS:

• In-house (single team) – Class I & Class II Time Trials are permitted

• Total group size may not exceed 60 participants without physical distancing for sanctioned Time Trials in each field of play

• We will provide an update on returning to sanctioned multi-team competitions in January when we receive additional information from the Province

TRAVEL FOR SPORT LIMITATIONS STILL IN PLACE:

• Children aged 11 and younger continue to be restricted from entering Nova Scotia to participate in sports and from participating in them outside Nova Scotia.

Additional details and up to date information can be found on the Nova Scotia Provincial Government webpage. A copy of today’s press release can be found here.

As further information is received from the Province, it will be communicated as soon as possible.

Thanks

Bette

2021 Candy Cane Invitational Meet Details

Swim NS & Truro Centurions Swim Club are excited to co-host the 2021 Candy Cane Invitational Meet this weekend and welcome everyone to Truro!

The Session Reports and Psych Sheets (as of Dec 6) are now available; please see the important details below.

WARM-UPS & REVISED FINALS START TIMES:

DAILY PRELIMS

8:00 – 8:20am 12 & Under

8:20 – 8:55am 13 – 14-Year-olds

8:55 – 9:30am 15 & Over

9:30am Meet Start

FRIDAY & SATURDAY FINALS

3:40 – 4:00pm 12 & Under

4:00 – 5:00pm Open ages

5:00pm Meet Start

SUNDAY FINALS 

2:10 – 2:30pm 12 & Under

2:30 – 3:30pm Open ages

3:30pm Meet Start

NOTE CHANGES TO THE WARM-UP & START TIMES FOR FINALS ALL THREE DAYS 

OFFICIALS, RESULTS & ENTRY FEES: 

• 2021 Candy Cane Invitational Assignment of Meet Officials as of Dec 9

• We are still looking for some timers, if you are interested please email Kelley with your preferred position and availability

• Prelims will be running quickly – 20 second interval. We will not be accommodating missed swims unless it is an official’s error.

• The live real-time results link will be posted on our live results page

• Live webcasting will be available online here

• Results will be available on meet mobile

FACILITY ACCESS INFORMATION:

• Masks must be worn by everyone while entering/exiting the facility and in all areas of RECC except the pool deck. It is important that as soon as you leave the pool deck masks are worn – please ensure all of your swimmers are wearing masks when they should be.

• Everyone must enter RECC through the main entrance– swimmers, coaches and officials must give their full name to the VOLUNTEER (and let them know if you are a swimmer/coach/official). They will check your name off the entry list submitted by Swim NS. The volunteer will be at the door 30 minutes before warm-ups begin and through the first hour of warm-ups.

  • Anyone arriving before or after, must check in with the Security/Commissionaire and be prepared to show proof of vaccination AND identification.

• Access will only be available to Coaches, Swimmers and Officials that are on the entry lists for the specific session

• Seating for swimmers/coaches will be available on the pool deck only

• Spectators must check in with the Security/Commissionaire and show proof of vaccination AND identification.

• Spectators are allowed in the upper viewing gallery (masks must be always worn by spectators) – no spectators on the pool deck please

Nova Tech #2 Meet Details

Information on our second Nova Tech Meets of the season are now available!

Thanks to those of you (and your team) who have signed up as a timer or Official already for the upcoming Nova Tech Meets!  We really appreciate your support.

We are still looking for officials and timers for the South meet (Club Chairs of Officials, please forward the call for officials to your timers/officials); if you are interested in helping, please email your preferred position and availability as outlined below as soon as possible.

NT #2 Central -

In preparation for this weekend’s Nova Tech #1 Central Meet co-hosted by the Dartmouth Crusaders & Swim NS at Dalplex, please find attached the following:

• NT #2 Central Session Reports as of Dec 2

• NT #2 Central Psych Sheets as of Dec 2

• NT #2 Central Meet Program

• Dalplex Pool Layout - NT #2 Central

• NT #2 Central Assignment of Meet Officials as of Dec 1

Dalplex Facility Access

Please see the above pool layout diagram which includes swimmer seating and take note of the following information:

• HTAC Swimmers & Coaches – enter Dalplex through the front doors and use your access cards to enter through the turnstiles

• SWAT & DCSC Coaches & Swimmers AND all Officials – enter Dalplex through the front doors and check-in with the Dalplex Staff, give them your name and let them know if you are a swimmer, coach or official. Entry lists have been submitted. Only the names on the entry lists will be allowed to access the building.

•  Spectators – will be permitted with limited capacity and must remain in the designated area – spectators must report to the Dalplex greeter and show proof of vaccination and ID – masks must be worn at all time (including in the bleachers)

• Swimmers/Coaches/Officials cannot intermix with spectators – they must remain separate

• Swimmers/Coaches/Officials - Masks must be worn at all times through Dalplex, including the shallow end

• Swimmers/Coaches/Officials - Masks are optional in the deep end only

• There will be NO webcast this weekend, hopefully parents/families will be able to attend in person

• Spectators are encouraged to print your own copies of the Meet Program at home before you arrive - they will not be available at the meet

NT #2 South -

In preparation for this weekend’s Nova Tech South Meet hosted by the Greenwood Dolphins Swim Club, please find attached the following: 

• NT #2 South Session Reports

• NT #2 South Psych Sheets

• NT #2 South Meet Program as of Nov 29

• NT #2 South Assignment of Meet Officials as of Dec 3

GDSC is still in need of some more timers, if anyone on your team is interested in helping on deck as a timer, please email Danielle  as soon as possible (please ensure Officials are fully registered with your Club as an Official).

 Please note the following:

• Everyone will be required to show proof of vaccination and ID upon entry to the facility (this includes officials, coaches, spectators and swimmers 12+ eligible to receive vaccinations)

• Masks are required throughout the facility by everyone; they are optional while on the pool deck. Please be sure you have easy access to your mask at all times

• No outdoor shoes and/or food on the pool deck.

• Each club will have an assigned bleacher area on the pool deck

• Wading/leisure pool is not to be accessed and will be cordoned off – please be sure your swimmers are aware of this and stay away from this area

Important Spectator Information

• There will be two viewing areas for spectators: one on the main level with bleachers and a second viewing area upstairs by the track, which will be standing only

• Please note that outdoor shoes must be removed before going up the stairs to the track and children are asked to remain within arm’s reach of their parent/guardian at all times

• Spectators are not to be on the pool deck

• Masks must be worn at all times by spectators

 NT #2 North -

In preparation for this weekend’s Nova Tech Meet hosted by the Cape Breton Dorados, please find attached the following:

• NT #2 North Session Reports as of Dec 3

• NT #2 North Psych Sheets as of Dec 3

• NT #2 North Meet Program as of Dec 3

• NT #2 North Assignment of Meet Officials as of Dec 3

 Please note the following:

• The parking lot at the Kiwanis is under construction and parking is reduced. Please be mindful of the swimmers in the parking lot and additional parking can be found in the shopping plaza/ Cineplex

• Spectators are required to show their double vaccination record at the door, social distancing and their masks must be worn in the building and balcony at all times. Please allow Coaches & Swimmers to enter the facility ahead of spectators.

• Masks are required throughout the facility by everyone; they are optional while on the pool deck for swimmers, coaches & officials

• Swimmers/Coaches/Officials upon arrival to the facility, please check-in with the front desk staff and identify yourself as a swimmer/coach/official for the swim meet and give them your name

• CBD will not be printing programs, please distribute these attachments to your parents. There will be printed copies posted.

2021 David Fry Memorial Bursary Reciepients

The David Fry Memorial Bursary has been established to remember Coach Fry, his contributions to competitive swimming in Nova Scotia, and to encourage swimmers toward excellence.  David Fry left an invaluable legacy to amateur sport in Nova Scotia and in Canada, the legacy of his character; character built on commitment, intensity, discipline, effort, and desire.

On Sunday, Bette El-Hawary, on behalf Alex Young, David Fry’s partner presented this year’s recipients of the David Fry Memorial Bursary to Caitlin Taylor and Liam Ferguson from Dalhousie University and Bowen Stokesbury-Price from Acadia University.  

All three swimmers have excelled in and out of the pool; they have worked hard and reached the highest level of achievement in their academic courses while continuing to excel in the sport that they love!  

Caitlin graduated from Charle P Allen High School in Bedford and swam for the Sackville Waves Aquatic Team.

Liam graduated from Sir John A High School in Tantallon and swam for the Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club.

Bowen graduated from Horton High School and swam for the Wolfville Tritons Swim Club.

All three are pursuing their Bachelor of Sciences Degree at their respective universities and graduated with distinction from high school. 

Both Bowen and Liam were members of Swim Nova Scotia’s Next Gen Provincial Team last season.  

Each year awards may be made from the Fund to promising, Nova Scotia swimmers to assist them to continue their training, education, and pursuit of their swimming goals as they pursue their University education.

Please contact Swim Nova Scotia to make your contribution to the David Fry Memorial Bursary: swimming@sportnovascotia.ca