Latest News
Top Nova Scotia Swimmers to Compete at the 2022 Eastern Canadian Swimming Championships
2022 Eastern Canadian Swimming Championships Day 1 Recap
2022 Eastern Canadian Swimming Championships Day 2 Recap
2022 Eastern Canadian Swimming Championships Day 3 Recap
2022 Eastern Canadian Swimming Championships Day 4 Recap
The 2022 Eastern Canadian Swimming Championships brings together a great mix of Canada’s senior, youth, and junior swimmers from Eastern Canada, including World Champion Katarine Savard. This National Championship is held the same weekend as the Western Canadian Swimming Championships that are taking place in Edmonton, AB.
The competition will be hosted at the Pointe Claire Aquatic Centre, April 21-24th. This long course competition serves as an excellent racing and development opportunity for Youth and Junior competitors. Youth age groups are 13-15 for female and 14-16 for male; Senior age groups are 16 & older for female and 17 & older for male.
Preliminaries will begin at 9:00am local time and finals at 6:00pm local time daily.
The following 24 swimmers from across Nova Scotia will be competing against over 700 swimmers from 110 Eastern Canadian Swim Teams:
Dartmouth Crusaders Swim Club (DCSC): Sophia Deane
Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club (HTAC): Rachael Blackmore, Aliyah Bloom, Oliver Bourne, Alexander Bouchard, Ella Brocklehurst, Ella Collins, Charlotte Evans, Cassidy Karrel, Isobel McBride, Éadaoin McGrath, Ashleigh McKenna, Isabelle Melanson, Will Myrer, Owen Nicholson, Julie Nolan-McCarthy, Agaron Ramos, Sophie Rooney
Sackville Waves Aquatic Team (SWAT): Katharine Dawson, Ella Dobson, Hannah MacLeod, Juliette Mercier, Natasha Sexton-Quillan
Truro Centurions Swim Club (TCSC): Madison Bond
For more information, visit Swimming Canada's Information page
Top Nova Scotia Swimmers Wrapped up Racing at the 2022 Bell Canadian Swimming Trials
Seven of Nova Scotia’s top swimmers wrapped up competition at the Bell Canadian Swimming Trials in Victoria, B.C. at Saanich Commonwealth Place on Sunday April 10th.
The competition took place over six days, April 5-10, 2022 and served as the selection Trials for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, 2022 Junior Pan Pacific Championships, and the 2022 FINA Junior World Open Water Championships for Swimming Canada.
Over 500 swimmers from 135 clubs across Canada were in attendance.
Complete Results for Nova Scotia Swimmers:
Ella Collins, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club (HTAC)
100m Breaststroke, Junior – 15th 1:13.95
200m Breaststroke, Junior – 12th 2:40.63
Isabelle Melanson (HTAC)
50m Backstroke, Junior – 35th 31.19
Hanna Mountford (HTAC)
200m Backstroke, Senior/Open – 16th 2:25.35
Julie Nolan-McCarthy (HTAC)
50m Breaststroke, Junior – 32nd 35.34
100m Breaststroke, Junior – 18th 1:14.48
200m Breaststroke, Junior – 15th 2:40.83
Sophie Rooney (HTAC)
200m Individual Medley, Junior - 23rd 2:26.28
50m Backstroke, Junior – 28th 31.10
100m Backstroke, Junior – 17th 1:06.81
200m Backstroke, Junior – 13th 2:21.19
Ella Dobson, Sackville Waves Aquatic Team (SWAT)
1500m Freestyle, Junior – 25th 18:06.65
Juliette Mercier (SWAT)
200m Breaststroke Junior – 29th 2:44.42
For full results and additional information please visit Swimming Canada's Information Page
NS Swimmers Ready to Dive off the Blocks at the 2022 Bell Canadian Swimming Trials
Seven of Nova Scotia’s top swimmers will be competing at the Bell Canadian Swimming Trials in Victoria, B.C. at Saanich Commonwealth Place. The competition takes place April 5-10, 2022.
This competition will serve as the nomination or selection Trials for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, 2022 Junior Pan Pacific Championships, and the 2022 FINA Junior World Open Water Championships.
In total, approximately 500 swimmers from 131 clubs are expected to compete from across Canada.
Prelims begin at 9:30am and finals begin at 6:00pm local time daily
Ella Collins, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club (HTAC): 100m Breaststroke, 200m Breaststroke
Isabelle Melanson (HTAC): 50m Backstroke
Hanna Mountford (HTAC): 200m Backstroke
Julie Nolan-McCarthy (HTAC): 50m Breaststroke, 100m Breaststroke, 200m Breaststroke
Sophie Rooney (HTAC) 200m Individual Medley, 50m Backstroke, 100m Backstroke, 200m Backstroke
Ella Dobson,Sackville Waves Aquatic Team (SWAT): 1500m Freestyle
Juliette Mercier (SWAT): 200m Breaststroke
For up-to-date results and additional information please visit Swimming Canada's Information Page
2020-2021 Swim NS Awards Recipients Recognized!
This past weekend, Swim Nova Scotia recognized last year’s award recipients for their accomplishments during the 2020-2021 swim-season!
Although there were no competitions outside of Nova Scotia and no multi-team events in the province, our members continued to excel and perform at their highest level.
Beth Casey, a member of the Swim Nova Scotia Board of Director’s presented on behalf of the organization:
Female Swimmer of the Year - University: Reagan Crowell, Dalhousie Tigers
Reagan’s 400m Freestyle time last season ranked her 2nd in the Country
Female Swimmer of the Year: Marion Synishin, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club
Marion’s 200m Breaststroke ranked her 1st in the Country. She also set Provincial Records in the 15-17 50m, 100m & 200m Breaststroke last Spring.
Male Swimmer of the Year - University: Christian Payne, Dalhousie Tigers
Christian ranked 1st in the 50m & 100m Back last season in the Country.
Male Swimmer of the Year: Bo Stokesbury-Price, Wolfville Tritons Swim Club
Bo ranked 5th in the men’s 800m Free last season
PARA Female Swimmer of the Year: Natasha Sexton-Quillan, Sackville Waves Aquatic Team
Last season, Natasha was the top ranked female Para Swimmer in Nova Scotia.
PARA Coach of the Year: Zoe Miles, Sackville Waves Aquatic Team
Zoe coached Natasha to the highest-ranking Para Swimmer during the 2020-2021 in Nova Scotia.
Performance Coach of the Year - University: Lance Cansdale, Dalhousie Tigers
Lance coached Reagan Crowell and Christian Payne to the highest University ranked swimmers during the 2020-2021 season.
Lance has been the Provincial Coach for over 10 years, he has been instrumental in the development of provincial team initiatives over his time as the Provincial Coach.
Performance Coach of the Year: Mark McGrann, Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club
Mark coached Marion Synishin to the highest ranked age group aggregate performances last season for her performances last season. The Trojans earned three NS Provincial Records. He is an active member on many Swim Nova Scotia Committees and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the pool deck.
Official of the Year: Kelley Polley
Kelley first started her officiating career on the summer club pool deck with the Waeg Waves and continued her certification pathway with the Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club. She fulfilled the role of the Club Chair of Officials before taking on the role of Chair of Officials for Swim Nova Scotia.
She continues to actively officiate at all levels of swim meets in our Province, including Masters, Summer, Varsity and Year-Round Meets. Kelley has been a mentor to many upcoming officials and has run a number of clinics across the province, including three mass officials’ clinics in the last two years.
Kelley has travelled to Varsity meets in Ontario to help officiate along with a number of SNC National Competitions.
This season, Kelley joined Swimming Canada’s Officials Competitions Rules Committee (OCRC) and was very excited to take on this new and exciting role with Swimming Canada.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Kelley has gone above and beyond the expectations of a Provincial Chair of Officials by assisting all of our clubs with virtual time trials and organizing multiple events on the same weekend. She has provided support virtually and in-person when needed.
Volunteer of the Year: Sue Jackson
Sue has been an active volunteer for over twenty years with Swim Nova Scotia and the Wolfville Tritons Swim Club. In her many years as a volunteer, she has been able to contribute to Swim Nova Scotia’s success at the Provincial, Regional and National level.
Sue was the President of Swim Nova Scotia from 2007-2020, in that time she has helped our organization achieve organization excellence and excellence in the pool. She has led us through challenging times during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
She has also maintained a relationship with the age group club (Wolfville Tritons) and continued to volunteer for their club and continues to support their Board of Director’s as they need.
Sue is also a recipient of Swimming Canada’s Volunteer of the Year this year!
Sport Nova Scotia Good Sport Award Recipients:
Luke MacLean of Port Hawkesbury Antigonish Swim Team (May 2021). Luke MacLean keeps morale up by cheering on teammates with an infectiously positive attitude that endears his entire team. Despite limitations from pandemic restrictions last season, his cheerful attitude and determination to perform inspires fellow swimmers.
Yael Bloom of the Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club (December 2021). Her determination to make a difference hasn’t gone unnoticed! This young woman swam 5 km, raising over $5000 for Adsum for Women & Children’s housing project, The Sunflower.
Adsum offers emergency shelter and affordable housing every night to women, families and gender-expansive persons. Yael is proud to support Adsum in its creation of new housing to provide those in need with the warmth, safety and security they need and deserve.
Peyton Ballem of the Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club (January 2021). In her first season of year-round swimming with the Halifax Trojan Aquatic Club (HTAC), the nine-year-old displayed determination in the face of adversity. Regardless of challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, she managed to excel, swim personal bests, and actively go out of her way to lift up and congratulate teammates on their success.
Isabelle Dearnaley of the Sackville Waves Aquatic Team (February 2021) is a natural-born leader. She’s been instrumental in supporting athletes and providing leadership to senior swim groups. Without being asked, she gets all athletes together for a team cheer. She is always on her feet encouraging her teammates and creates an exciting environment during race nights by playing DJ.
Congratulations to all recipients and to all members who continue to play a significant role in advancing swimming in our Province!
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 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.
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.
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:
Friday Finals Meet Program (no alternates)
Saturday Finals Meet Program (no alternates)
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
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