Winter Swim Season Registration Begins Today

Youthful swimmers hoping to keep their skills high during the colder months have a place to turn. The Land O’ Lakes Lightning is hosting open registration for new team members starting today, Nov. 14.

The new session officially kicks off Nov. 28, said Brett Ewald, president of the swim team. The cost to participate in the 12-week session is $250. New team members also need to pay a $58 insurance fee, which is good until the end of 2012. Practice takes place Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings.

Elite team membership for advanced swimmers is $275. These swimmers meet for practice Monday through Friday.

While the team’s fate was in question earlier this year when , the Lightning stepped in on Oct. 1 to take over day-to-day operations. So far, it’s been smooth sailing, Ewald said.

“We have been in control of the pool for around 45 days and thankfully have had very few issues,” he said. “The high school season is over now and I am happy to report that Sunlake and Land O’ Lakes did very well. Pool usage will decrease with the high schools kids gone but some of them will be right back at it when they rejoin the elite team.”

Parents who are concerned about youngsters swimming when the temperatures dip need not worry, Ewald said.

“The pool is heated.”

To register for the winter season, visit the Lightning’s website. Evaluations for team placement are conducted on weeknights at 7:15 except on Wednesdays at the Land O' Lakes Recreation Complex's pool.