The CSA and CSC Connection

Carmel Swim Academy is part of the larger Carmel Swim Club organization. CSC’s mission is to teach excellence through swimming, for life, and CSA takes that a step further by working that mission into our larger central Indiana community, outside of competitive swimming. Our connection to Carmel Swim Club makes it simple for swimmers to progress from swim lessons to our unparalleled competitive team. CSC even holds practices for several groups at the Carmel Swim Academy pool, making the transition between programs convenient and easy for families. 

Over the past 50 years, the Carmel Swim Club has established itself as the best swimming team in Indiana and one of the top club teams in the entire USA. More important than accomplishments, Carmel SwimClub takes pride in offering a program for all ages and ability levels. Age group swimming builds a strong foundation for a lifetime of good physical and mental health by teaching time management, self-discipline, and healthy fitness habits.

During the course of your swimmer’s Carmel Swim Academy participation, CSA staff may recommend them to the competitive Carmel Swim Club team. Current CSA swimmers do NOT need to attend Carmel Swim Club’s New Swimmer Evaluations.

We wanted to share some helpful information, including some Frequently Asked Questions, as you explore this opportunity for your family. The Carmel Swim Club is the premier youth sports program in the Indianapolis area. There are many benefits to getting your child involved in competitive swimming, including:

• Swimming promotes physical development.
• Swimming develops aerobic endurance and is one of the most beneficial forms of cardiovascular exercise.
• Swimming enhances a child’s natural flexibility and promotes muscle development.
• Swimming develops superior coordination.
• Swimming is the most injury-free of all children’s sports.
• Swimming is a sport that will bring children fitness and enjoyment for life.
• Swimming promotes time management and is one of the top academically-achieving sports.

Frequently asked questions about Carmel Swim Club:

1. Do I have to be a good swimmer to join the team?
All you need to be able to do is swim 25 yards of freestyle and backstroke – this is the length of most pools. CSC will teach you
the rest. If you cannot swim the minimum, CSA classes will teach you how and you can move to the team when you are ready. Everybody has a place at Carmel Swim Club!

2. What if I’m involved in other sports?
Most of our swimmers participate in other activities, too! Carmel Swim Club practices are usually offered six days a week to allow for more opportunities to participate.

3. Are meets held every weekend?
No, and it is up to you how many meets you enter based on your schedule. Usually, swimmers can compete one or two weekends a month in age-appropriate settings suited to their competitive level.

4. Is there a lot of travel involved?
Most of our meets are in the Indianapolis area and at our home pool, although we do offer the opportunity for travel trips to other areas. All are optional.

5. Where are practices held?
Practices are primarily held at Carmel High School’s Aquatic Center (500 E. Main Street, Carmel) or the Carmel Swim Academy (830 City Center Drive, Carmel).

6. Can I join anytime?
Yes, you may join the team anytime throughout the year!

7. Do the boys have to wear “speedos”?
No, although they are still around, most boys opt for the knee-length “jammer” suit.

8. What is the cost?
The cost is based on the group in which your swimmer is placed and how many swim meets you enter. Registration ispaid when you join and the annual dues are broken down into eleven monthly payments. The CSC fee schedule is based on retaining a high-quality, full-time staff and USA Swimming membership benefits. We host swim meets that are volunteer-run to help offset costs. Reduced fees and scholarships are offered to families experiencing financial need.

9. Who does the coaching and what are their certifications?
Carmel Swim Club has a staff of professional, experienced coaches who love what they do. They are all certified through USA Swimming and are required to maintain CPR, Coaches Safety & First Aid, plus other coaching certifications.

If you have additional questions, please reach out to Carmel Swim Club’s Business Manager, Lisa Sheets at carmelswimclub@gmail.com, or 317-575-8244.