Dive into the World of Diving: A Guide for Parents

Being a parent of a young diver is an incredible journey, filled with moments of pride as you witness their dedication, growth, and triumphs in the pool. Here are some key guidelines to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

General Advice

• Diving Knowledge: There's no need to become a diving expert. The most important thing is to be your child's biggest cheerleader and support system. By showing genuine interest and learning alongside them, you'll create lasting memories and deepen your connection to the sport they love. 
  • Learn the lingo: Ask your child or search online for basic terms like "pike," "reverse" or "tuck." What is a 201a? What does it mean when they say "rip" or when the announcer says "thank you, diver"?

  • Connect with experienced parents: Seasoned diving families are a wealth of knowledge! Strike up conversations, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. They can share insights about the sport, team dynamics, and even offer tips for navigating the competitive world.

  • Attend a judging clinic: While not everyone wants to become a judge, these clinics offer a fantastic opportunity to learn the rules, scoring system, and various aspects of diving from the inside out. This deeper understanding can enhance your appreciation for the sport and your child's dedication.
  • Read "Diving 101" on this website.
• Communication with Coaches : If you have questions or concerns, schedule individual meetings with the coach outside of practice time. This allows for focused discussion without disrupting the training session and demonstrates respect for the coach's time and focus. Do not approach the coaches during practice time.
• Support and encouragement: Fuel their passion for dive. Your positive reinforcement and encouragement are crucial for your child's confidence and enjoyment of the sport. Celebrate their efforts and progress, but avoid putting pressure on them to perform. Let them know you're proud of their dedication, regardless of the outcome.
• Volunteering: Teamwork makes the dream work. Our team relies on parental involvement for various activities beyond the pool. Contributing your time and skills fosters a sense of community and strengthens the team spirit. The team doesn't work without you!

During Practices: Trust the Coaches and Leave

Coaches are trained professionals who prioritize safety and know how to guide them through each step.  They have your child's best interests at heart and are equipped to help them reach their full potential. Trust their expertise and let them work their magic!

• We recommend dropping off your divers and coming back for pick-up, for everyone's safety and focus. Sometimes even the smallest reactions from the stands, like a worried face or a gasp, or even a wave or a wink can be distracting for your diver and their teammates. Take a deep breath, relax, and know that your support is always felt, even from afar. You'll get your chance to cheer them on loud and proud at meets! 
• If you do stay during practice, please be aware of when the pool is "closed" and only open for private practices.  If morning practices, then the pool is "closed," so you must observe from designated areas outside the pool well, up on the hill by the volleyball net. Please, observe quietly, avoid talking to your child or attempting to coach them during practice.

During Meets: Go Otters!!

• Be prepared and supportive: Ensure your child arrives on time and ready, knowing their schedule and location for warm-ups.
• Cheer responsibly: Once your child is with the team, the coaches are in charge. If you're volunteering, find the designated areas and take your position. Otherwise, relax and enjoy watching the dives, offering enthusiastic cheers and applause for all participants. Remember, sportsmanship is paramount, and summer diving should be fun for everyone.