WELCOME TO GATOR COUNTRY
The calendar has officially changed to SUMMER and your GATOR SWIMMERS have returned to the waters of Fayson Lakes for the 2023 swim season! The Coaching Staff (Dave, Kevin and Ellie) is STOKED to lead and prepare this year’s iteration of GATORS to even higher levels in the Lakeland Swim Conference. Each GATOR and HATCHLING will be challenged to strive to become the very best version of themselves, in and out of the water. FRANK the GATOR will also return as well as all the traditional team bonding activities, community, and fun that are THE FAYSON GATORS SWIM TEAM. LOOK OUT, BECAUSE HERE WE COME….
GO GATORS!!!
CHECK-IN (with coaches) 7:30am
WARM UP 8:00am / OPENING CEREMONY 9:00am / MEET START 9:30am
STROKE ORDER OF EVENTS: BREASTSTROKE / BUTTERFLY / BACKSTROKE / FREESTYLE / RELAYS
There will be a short break after Backstroke for DIVISION AWARDS
2023 A CHAMPIONSHIPS
@PEQUANNOCK 8/12/23
QUALIFIER INFORMATION
ALL QUALIFYING SWIMMERS AGES 14 and younger: are eligible to compete in 2 individual events (if qualified) and will be considered for the ‘A’ RELAY for their AGE GROUP.
ALL QUALIFYING SWIMMERS AGES 15 and older: are eligible to compete in 3 individual events (if qualified) and will be considered for the ‘A’ RELAY for their AGE GROUP.
MEET NOTE:
THE NEW CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFYING STANDARDS HAVE BEEN APPROVED BY THE LAKELAND SWIM CONFERENCE. CLICK THE REVISED 2023 A STANDARD BUTTON TO VIEW THE NEW STANDARDS.
CURRENT ”TOP TIMES” REPORT, LISTING ALL FAYSON GATOR SWIMMERS BY NAME, IS AVAILABLE BY CLICKING THE “CURRENT A QUALIFIERS BUTTON”
GATORS WIN 332-315
Final Record: 3 wins 3 losses (4th place in the Red Division)
HL @ GATORS
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 9, 2023
CHECK-IN 6:15p / WARM-UP 6:30p / MEET START 7:00p
MEET RECAP
In the final meet of the 2023 season, your FAYSON GATORS capped off the campaign with a resounding victory over HIGHLAND LAKES.
The victory was even sweeter to our GATOR FAMILY as we celebrated THREE OF OUR SENIOR GATORS and expressed our gratitude, love, and respect for their many years competing for FAYSON LAKES and representing their families and our community with humility and character throughout their tenure… CONGRATULATIONS GATORS for LIFE:
MAX CONNELLY
WILL KILPONEN
HALEY KLOUSE
Among the competition highlights of the evening, were a few NEW A CHAMPS QUALIFIERS: CHARLOTTE R (FLY) KAYLA (FLY) ANNA M (BACK) CALEB (FREE) and KEIRA F (100 FREE)
BREASTSTROKE: BIGGEST TIME CHOMP…MADISON LASTER (-5.47 sec!) MORE PR’s by LOGAN (-.58) Waylon (-.42) LIVY (-3.07) ABBY (-.05) OWEN (-2.12) SEAN (-3.67) Joey (-.70) KAYLA (-.45) NICK (-.93) and Lily F (-2.24)
BUTTERFLY: BIGGEST TIME CHOMP…OWEN BOHAN (-14.14 sec!) MORE PR’s by LOGAN (-2.38, and his FIRST FIRST PLACE!) MADISON L (-4.69) MACKENZIE C (-4.81) LAUREN (-7.62) SEAN (-.12) and KAYLA (-8.26)
BACKSTROKE: BIGGEST TIME CHOMP…LOGAN PAPENDICK (-37.23 SEC!) MORE PR’S by TEDDY (-8.87) JAYDEN (-9.16) KYLE (-3.29) MYCAH (-5.54) ANNA M (-3.49) LILY B (-16.30) KENZIE PARMAR-SAN (-7.73) JACKSON (-.14) ELENNA (-.38) and KYLIE (-1.11)
FREESTYLE: BIGGEST TIME CHOMP… AUBREY CONCA (-14.56 SEC!) MORE PR’S by CALEB (-4.94) TEDDY (-2.32) “and FREDDY!” (-1.78) MYCAH (-3.27) LAUREN (-5.94) HARPER (-.O4) AMELIA (-.05) ZAC (-.42) JACK (-3.06) JACKSON (-1.74) MACKENZIE C (-1.30) and SAGE (-.07)
Congratulations to the SWIMMERS, the COACHES, and our FAMILIES for all of their collective time and efforts throughout the summer to MAKE THE MAGIC that is FAYSON GATORS SWIMMING!
Good luck at A CHAMPIONSHIPS this Saturday 8.12.2023 (arrive by 7:30a for check-in)
GO GATORS!!!
Coach Dave
HATCHLINGS!!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR HATCHLINGS AND INSTRUCTORS ON AN AMAZINGLY REWARDING SESSION THIS SUMMER! FOR 5 WEEKS WE LEARNED HOW TO BECOME GATORS…FLOATING, BREATHING, BALANCING, TREADING, SWIMMING FREESTYLE and BACKSTROKE, JUMPING, DIVING and STAYING SAFE IN OUR LAKE!
!WE HAD JUST AS MUCH FUN TEACHING YOU AS YOU ALL DID LEARNING, YOU ALL ARE FANTASTIC SWIMMERS AND OUR INSTRUCTORS ARE AN ABSOLUTE GIFT OF PATIENCE, CALM, SMILES, AND REASSURANCE WHICH TRULY DRIVES OUR PROGRAM’S SUCCESS.
WITH GRATITUDE AND RESPECT,
Coaches Ellie, Kevin, and Dave
INVITATIONAL INFORMATION CENTER
ENTRIES CLOSED 7/9@11:59pm
ALL GATORS WITHOUT A CHAMPS TIMES ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE B CHAMPIONSHIP @HLCC
EMAIL COACH DAVE
IF INTERESTED IN ATTENDING:
ODD AGE / OWN AGE / B’s and C’s
ALL ENTRY CONFIRMATIONS & REQUESTS ARE DUE TO COACH DAVE ON THE SUNDAY PRIOR TO THE MEET DATE BY MIDNIGHT.
“A CHAMPIONSHIP” ENTRIES WILL BE DETERMINED BY LEAGUE QUALIFYING STANDARDS SET AT THE 2022 CHAMPIONSHIP MEET
(click the button below to view the "A” time standards)
ENTRIES CLOSED 7/14 @11:59pm
ALL ELIGIBLE GATORS CAN BE VIEWED BY CLICKING THE BUTTON ABOVE^
ENTRY INFORMATION WAS RECEIVED THIS MORNING and ENTRIES ARE DUE TUESDAY 8/2/23.
GATORS TAKE SECOND PLACE
ANNA KILPONEN BREAKS RECORD IN 15-18 50 FLY
2023 COACHES’ CHOICE INVITATIONAL
HOSTED BY:
YOUR
FAYSON GATORS
Thursday August 3, 2022
@Fayson Lakes Pool
(6:30 warm-up / 7:00 Start)
The 2023 Coaches’ Choice meet is THURSDAY EVENING AUGUST 3 @FAYSON LAKES!
This meet is iconic in the Lakeland Swim Conference. The original “championship meet” format pitted the top swimmer in each age group in each stroke discipline versus all the other top swimmers in the conference…an “all-star” event if you will. Each team swims in ONE ASSIGNED LANE for the entire meet…GATORS IN LANE 6… so you can channel all of your GATOR NATION ENERGY into our lane as our GATORS pour out their very best efforts to take home the 2023 Coaches’ Choice Championship! The four swimmers in each stroke also make up the Relay for their age group. This is one of the most exciting meets of the summer…mark your calendar…don your GATOR GEAR…BRING YOUR ENERGY to the pool to cheer on our FAYSON LAKES GATORS…DON’T MISS IT!!!
This is the most difficult process of the season as there are so many deserving Gators and the event is limited. Please understand that all of our Gator swimmers are “personal all-stars” to each of the coaches and we want you all to support each other as we always do…pouring all of our Gator-Energy into LANE 6 in support of our TEAM! Our successes are always more divine when we share them with our teammates…each of them are battling for FAYSON LAKES! Congratulations to our 2023 Coaches’ Choice Selections!
We are so very proud of ALL OF OUR GATOR and HATCHLING swimmers for their positive contributions to the GATOR FAMILY this season!
GO GATORS!!!
COACH DAVE, MR COACH KEV, COACH ELLIE
MEET RECAP
OUR GATORS SHOWED THE LAKELAND SWIM CONFERENCE THAT WE ARE STILL A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH AFTER OUR PERFORMANCE AT THE COACHES’ CHOICE LAST NIGHT…
Out of the 38 individual events, we had 28 “summer-only” Gators!!!!! (not participating on a year-round swim team). Our swimmers hung with the best of the best that the conference had to offer!
SPECIAL CONGRATULATIONS TO:
ANNA KILPONEN
for setting a new COACHES’ CHOICE RECORD in the 15-18 50m Butterfly
The results tell most of the story (click the button to the LEFT <, to view)…the rest, was an experience that EXEMPLIFIED the term TEAM…being fortunate enough to witness such great athletes and friend sacrifice themselves for the team, alone, in their own lane, self-less and driven…backed by GATOR NATION, was truly the greatest GIFT OF OUR SEASON so far as COACHES…WE (and coach Kiersten too!) were thoroughly impressed with many of our gritty finishes, beautifully flowing strokes and determination to get our hand(s) on the wall before our competitors.
There were a ton of great battles…yet there were also a few DEFINING MOMENTS that represented what I believe TRULY AMAZING SWIMS and SWIMMERS to be all about:
KYLIE, NORAH and BODIE GETTING AFTER IT, and GOING FOR IT in our relays…FOR THE TEAM.
JONNY for persevering through injury to swim an amazing BACKSTROKE!
FIRST TIME COACHES CHOICE SWIMMERS: MYCAH, CALEB, HARPER, LOGAN, JACK, ELENNA, ATHENA, SAGE, and HANNAH
ESPECIALLY THESE FREESTYLE LEGS of our medley relays: JACK, AVERY, ALEX, TREVOR, EVERETT, and HANNAH…some of the BEST QUALITY SWIMS I have witnessed in quite some time…these were a coming of age for these swimmers who anchored their teams with the Heart, Desire, and GRIT to DEFY their competitors, their screaming bodies, and feel the greatest feeling of all…TO GIVE ALL OF THEMSELVES when the TEAM REQUIRED THEIR VERY BEST for our MISSION.
FINALLY, to our SENIORS: WILL and MAX for continuing to REPRESENT THE GATORS with Humility, Honor and Respect as they close out their GATOR CAREERS. Thank you, men…for your time, athleticism, poise, and dedication to our FAMILY.
GATORS WIN!!! 356-329
GATORS @ FLYING FISH
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 1, 2023
(ERSKINE LAKES)
CHECK IN 6:15pm / WARM-UP 6:30pm / MEET START 7:00pm
MEET RECAP
Last night at ERSKINE LAKES, your FAYSON GATORS got back on the winning track with a TOTAL TEAM EFFORT versus the FLYING FISH. It was a back and forth affair, with Erskine splashing to an early lead over the GATORS…. Then, the 11/12 boys gave the team a boost with a 1-2-4 finish in the 50 Breast (Bodie, Nicky and Joey) and the Gators took control of the Breaststroke! BIGGEST TIME CHOMP: MADISON LASTER (-20.88 seconds!!!) Season Best times: Logan, Livy, Anna M, Layla, Addie Hayley, Madison L, Callie, Kayla, Kieran, Oliver, Sage, and Everett…
In the Butterfly, the Gators extended their lead with a BLAZING 50 FLY by SEAN MCSWEENEY (33.13!)…Bodie, Norah, AJ and Trevor all added PERSONAL BESTS to the GATOR push for points along these season best time setters: Logan, Jack, Madison L, Abby, Harper, Hazy, and Kiera!
The Backstroke ensued with Livy and Harper stroking their way to a 1-2 finish (both season bests!) to jump the Gators back in front…and MORE SEASON BESTS: Caleb, Grat-man, Lauren, Zac, Jackson, Jack, Mackenzie, Alex, Trevor, and Kiera…
In Freestyle, the GATORS built a lead that they would not concede the rest of the way…after a rough patch to start off the event, the Flying Fish stormed back with a 33-15 start…until AVERY, JULIA S, and a gritty finish by ADDIE (season best time) finished 2-3-4 to win their race…Then the 13 and older crew finished off the event with a dominating performance by Kieran, Johnny M, Trevor, Charlotte, Coach Ellie, Anna, Max, AJ and Everett which set the stage for our RELAYS TO BRING HOME THE VICTORY FOR YOUR FAYSON GATORS…
More Season Bests: Caleb, Grant, Freddy, Haddie, Kenzie “Parmar-sean”, Jackson, Addie, Hayley, Bodie, Kieran. Oliver, and Sage.
A TOTAL TEAM EFFORT WAS NEEDED TO GET US BACK ON TRACK, AND THAT’S THE WAY IT SHOULD BE…THE TEAM IS THE STAR.
RECORD: 1-3
WAVES @ GATORS
WEDNESDAY JULY 26, 2023
(The GATOR SWAMP POOL)
CHECK IN 6:15pm / WARM-UP 6:30pm / MEET START 7:00pm
Our GATORS tool another loss last night at the hands of the WAVES. The meet was a big test of the "next swimmer up" principle, as we were operating at a major disadvantage in our older age group. A BIG SHOUT OUT TO EVERETT, HANNAH, JULIA M, CHARLOTTE, HALEY K, and MIKE D!OUR GATOR PERSONAL BESTS:
Breaststroke: Way; Logan; Livy; Mycah; Ava; Harper; Haddie; Owen; Third; Addie; Norah; Charlotte S; Kieran; Nick W; Everett
BIGGEST BREASTSTROKE “TIME CHOMPERS”…WAYLON STOVESAND (-10.95 seconds!) and Livy Galluscio (-8.63 seconds!)
Butterfly: Logan; Callie; AJ; Trevor; Kylie; Ella; Hazy; Everett; Charlotte M
BIGGEST BUTTERFLY “TIME CHOMPERS”…AMANDA BROCK (-9.03 seconds!) and Callie Coehlo (-2.76 seconds!)
Backstroke: Caleb; Porter; Teddy; Grat-man; Freddy; Kyle; Haddie; Ava; Layla; Elodie; '“Lil’ Mack Pappy” (Kenzie Pap!); “Parmar-sean” (Kenzie Parmar); Lily Bo; Third; Jackson; Charlotte R; Mackenzie C; Nicky; AJ; Nick W; Lily F
BIGGEST BACKSTROKE “TIME CHOMPERS”…Lily Bohan (-21.11 seconds!) and Elodie Merlucci (-21.02 seconds!)
Freestyle:
Logan; Caleb; Freddy; Sawyer; Finley; Porter; Mycah; Lauren C; Amelia; Lily Bo; Lil’ Mack Pappy; Zac; Madison L; Amanda; Seany;Watson; Callie; Trevor; Hazy; Lily F; Everett; Kieran; Hannah
BIGGEST FREESTYLE “TIME CHOMPERS”…Kenzie Papendick (-13.82 seconds!) and Caleb Papendick (-13.21 seconds!)
HATCHLINGS BREAKTHROUGHS (PART 2!)
Welcome to our NEWEST GATORS as the following Hatchlings swam in their FIRST OFFICIAL GATOR SWIMS…and got to go through the “Transformation Tunnel” after their races as their official welcome!!!!
SAWYER COLLINS
FINLEY CONTE
PORTER KENT
TEAM RECORD: 1-2
PIRANHAS @ GATORS
WEDNESDAY JULY 19, 2023
(The GATOR SWAMP POOL)
CHECK IN 6:15pm / WARM-UP 6:30pm / MEET START 7:00pm
MEET RECAP
The Gators took a hard loss after leading the Piranhas going into the relays. Amazing swims by the team individually...CONGRATULATIONS to KYLIE PAPENDICK for SMASHING the 13/14Girls 50 Free record in a blazing 28.82 seconds..Lots of GATOR PERSONAL BESTS TOO:
Breaststroke:
Waylon (-1.60s), Kyle (-15.23 sec!), Mycah (-1.01s), Alivia (-.39s), Abby (1st TIME!), Collin (-1.90s), Avery (-.77s), Addie (-1.43s), Nicky (-.98s), Joey (-2.18s), Watson (-1.49s), Charlotte S (-1.11s), Oliver (-5.67s), Kylie (-1.67s), Sage (-3.22s), and Coach Ellie (-.58s)!
Butterfly:
Huck (-1.95s), Zach (-1.40s), Julia S (-1.65s), Callie (-.6s), Charlotte S (-11.03 sec!), Elenna (-4.55s), AJ (-.28s), Kylie (-.75s), Anna K (-.15s), Julia M (-.43),
Backstroke:
Grat (-12.46 sec!), Harper (-1.91s), Haddie (-12.08 sec!), Aubrey (-16.18 sec), Jackson (-5.51s), Avery (-5.01), Amanda B (-7.96s), Watson (-8.36s), Norah (-.52s), AJ (-.19s), Kieran (-.52s), Johnny M (-.79s), Jonathan D (-3.48s), Hazel (-.27sec), Lily F (-.28), Anna K (-.28s), Coach Ellie (-.69s), Hannah (-1.46s)
Freestyle:
Waylon (-6.40s), Logan (-2.84s!), Grat (-28.76s), Caleb (-8.52s), Freddy (-32.02s), Kyle (-12.91s), Mycah (-10.90s), Abby (-3.44s), Haddie (-3.25s), Laren (-1.59s), Huck (-6.43s), Owen (-.67s), Third (-2.41s), Jack P (-5.08s), Avery (-1.82s), Julia S (-2.49s), Norah (-.84s), AJ (-.44s), Johnny M (-.13s), Oliver (-1.32s), Kylie (-1.17s) NEW FAYSON RECORD, Sage (-.05s), Coach Ellie (-.14s), Julia M (-.99s)
HATCHLINGS BREAKTHROUGH!
Welcome to our NEWEST GATORS as the following Hatchlings swam in their FIRST OFFICIAL GATOR SWIMS…and got to go through the “Transformation Tunnel” after their races as their official welcome!!!!
LILY BOHAN
TEDDY HOFFMAN
ELODIE MERLUCCI
KENZIE PAPENDICK
KENZIE PARMAR
RECORD 1-1
GATORS @HAWKS
WEDNESDAY JULY 12, 2023
(Lake Mohawk Pool Sparta, NJ)
CHECK IN 6:15pm / WARM-UP 6:30pm / MEET START 7:00pm
MEET RECAP
Tough loss for our Fayson Gators as the Hawks swam an amazing meet against us. We did come away with some positive results to build upon:
BREASTSTROKE
BUTTERFLY
BACKSTROKE
FREESTYLE
2023 “SUMMER VIBES” BENEFIT SWIM MEET
"GATORS GIVE BACK”
A BENEFIT FOR THE KINNELON FOOD PANTRY
@ SMOKE RISE SWIM LANES
TUESDAYJULY 11, 2023
WARM UP 6:00pm / START 6:30pm
MEET ENTRY SIGN-UPS AT PRACTICES Thursday & Friday (7/6&7/7!)
FOR ALL GATORS, FAMILY MEMBERS, PARENTS, LIFEGUARDS, AND ANYONE WHO BELIEVES IN SUPPORTING THE KINNELON COMMUNITY THROUGH FUN, SWIMMING, FRIENDSHIP, AND GIVING!
1-0
PIRATES v GATORS
THURSDAY…JULY 6…THURSDAY!!!
CHECK IN 6:15pm / WARM-UP 6:30pm / MEET START 7:00pm
Your FAYSON GATORS splash into their first dual meet of the season this coming THURSDAY July 6, 2023 @ PACKANACK LAKE, the home of the PIRATES!
Well, in the movies Tik-Tok Croc gave Captain Hook a run for his money terrorizing him on the open seas in Peter Pan…The Gators are ready to give these Pirates all they can handle as we hit the water for our first dual meet of the season.
This is the first step in defending our 2022 league championship…going for 1-0… It all starts this week in our preparation during practice, being humble to make changes, and then race fiercely come THURSDAY NIGHT…OUR TEAM IS THE STAR!
The GATORS are COMING!
MEET RECAP:
Congratulations to your FAYSON GATORS as this season’s squad splashed it’s way to a sound victory over the PIRATES of Packanack Lake. We had a great team showing with a bunch of new PR’s led by Trevor D’Anton, who continues to drop mad time each meet (yes, the speedo is a good idea boys!)…also, as a team we put on display superior racing skills by finishing our races with 12 TOUCH-OUTS in the last meter… Now that’s GATOR-TOUGH SWIMMING!
Looking super strong & stealthy in our first meet were: Huck Stovesand with the smmmmoooothest backstroke Coach Dave has seen in a long time (and we know he’s a little O-L-D!!); Ella Bohan rocked the 50 Breast; Sean McSweeney has a “Phelpsian” phinish in the 50 Phly; Our 8&Unders were out in full force trying breaststroke and kicking fast in back and free…
Other COACH SPOTLIGHTS included: Harper Reid (50 BACK); Joey Paz (50 BREAST); Mycah Gifford (carrying on the family Breaststroke tradition of big Giff) KYLIE PAPENDICK (50 FLY) to name a few of our many teamwide STAR PERFORMANCES in going 1-0!
“GATOR-SNAPS” (for our graduating Hatchlings) & WELCOME BACKS:
~A special WELCOME to GRANT EDWARDS as he competed in his FIRST MEET with the GATORS…. WAY TO GO “GRAT” (spelling intended)
~And special WELCOME BACKS to Sage, Oliver, Jonathan, & Michael, we are so happy you joined our swim family.
Overall a solid start to the season for all of GATOR NATION.
Next up is a BIG TEST IN THE POOL @LAKE MOHAWK 7/12/23…GO GATORS!!!!
BLUE-WHITE MEET
WEDNESDAY JUNE 28, 2023
The 2023 version of our annual splash-down intra-squad event is ON! next Wednesday…
Arrive 6:15p to check in / Warm-up 6:30p / Meet Start 7:00p
Get ready to show your FAYSON LAKES SPIRIT in classic Blue and White colors, spirit wear, body paint, tu-tu's, maybe even a Big Ben Turtle costume!… the options are only as endless as your Fayson Gator Spirit!
Teams are chosen by the Coaches…our goal is to make the meet a TIE…your spirit and competitive efforts are needed to BREAK THE TIE in this classic “color war”!
Each Gator will swim 2 events and 1 relay (if we can make that happen!)
following the meet is…
THE FAMILY PASTA PARTY!
It’s FEASTING time for our hungry GATORS (and their families) following a night of competition, community, and team bonding that IS PURE FAYSON LAKES!
Whip up your very best culinary creations: pasta meals, treats, sides, and more and bring them to the CLUBHOUSE and enjoy the best cuisine the Gator Families have to offer!
OFFICIAL ‘A’ CHAMPIONSHIP SECTION
updated 8/10/22 @8:20PM
ALERT!!! THERE HAVE BEEN LAST MINUTE CHANGES TO OUR TEAM ENTRIES DUE TO A FILE ISSUE REGARDING THE REVISED A STANDARDS. SOME ADDITIONS AND SOME DELETIONS HAVE OCCURRED AS A RESULT OF THIS SCENARIO. PLEASE DOUBLE CHECK YOU GATOR(S) EVENTS. RELAYS HAVE NOT CHANGED!
Please view all qualifying times for your GATORS by clicking the FINAL A CHAMPS QUALIFIERS Button
All athletes (ages 14 and younger) may swim up to 2 individual and 1 relay Only one relay is allowed at the championship meet with 4 alternates.
Athletes ages 15 and older may swim 3 individual events and 1 relay.
ENTRY DEADLINE IS TUESDAY 8/9/2022. ZERO EVENT CHANGES WILL BE MADE AFTER THIS DATE.
2022 “SUMMER VIBES” BENEFIT SWIM MEET
"GATORS GIVE BACK”
A BENEFIT FOR THE KINNELON FOOD PANTRY
MEET ENTRIES VIA SIGN UP GENIUS (COMING SOON!)
FOR ALL GATORS, FAMILY MEMBERS, PARENTS, LIFEGUARDS, AND ANYONE WHO BELIEVES IN SUPPORTING THE KINNELON COMMUNITY THROUGH FUN, SWIMMING, FRIENDSHIP, AND GIVING!
A Message from Coach Dave
On Monday and Tuesday, I shared with all of the GATORS that I will be going to Colorado to visit family whom I have not seen in many years. The Swim Board was aware of my commitments before the season started, and were gracious enough to work with me. This is a rare opportunity for me as a teacher and full-time coach to be able to make this journey west. Of course, with the 2022 swim season ending as usual, August 13, rather than a week earlier, as we encouraged the league to consider to adopt this year…I had a conflict with my two families…my Fayson Gator Family, and my lifelong family…something had to give. Sadly, I will be missing out on the last few competitions and practices with The Fayson Lakes Gators as we close out the 2022 season. I will still be available if questions arise.; I will be monitoring and updating the website remotely; and offering up a zoom link in the coming days to check in with the GATORS at practices for the final week of the season.
As I spoke with the team today, I related to them that the work has been done, the horses are in the stable…The Gators are on the precipice of a magical moment in time that I wish for each of you in Gator Nation to revel in and remember forever. It’s truly not about me, and I have not and will never, make any season about myself. The TEAM IS THE STAR…each and every GATOR will muster up their greatest personal performances for the TEAM WE HAVE BUILT AS A COMMUNITY. I have the utmost confidence in Coach Kevin, Coach Ellie, our Junior Leaders, and of course each and every GATOR SWIMMER on the team to go out to each of our final competitions of the season and MAKE IT HAPPEN, because it is OUR TIME TO SHINE as the BRIGHTEST STAR EVER.
To the Gator Swimmers…I am proud of the personal accomplishments that each of you have strove to achieve this summer…I am grateful for the opportunity to walk with each of you on your path and connect with you all each and every day…you are true blessings in my life.
To Coach Kevin and Coach Ellie…I fully trust and believe in both of you to carry our GATORS to the promised land!
To all of the GATOR NATION Parents and Fans…while I realize this is not the norm, I have been humbled by your continued support of my vision and my mission for this team and the community of Fayson Lakes. Thank you for the opportunity and trust to work with your children in this amazing sport, and throughout this memorable season.
To the Fayson Lakes Swim Board…I appreciate your understanding and am most grateful for your belief in me to have the privilege to lead the Fayson Lakes Gator Swim Team in 2022.
So, please accept my sincere best wishes and humility for missing the unique experience of such a memorable ending to a magical season. There will be nothing but smiles amongst all of us because WE MADE IT HAPPEN TOGETHER.
Peace, love, luck, and fast swims to all,
Coach Dave
ERSKINE ‘C’ MEET
Saturday August 6, 2022
@ERSKINE LAKES (UPPER LAKE LANES)
IF YOUR GATOR SWIMMER IS INTERESTED IN THIS LAST CHANCE MEET, PLEASE SIMPLY EMAIL COACH DAVE WITH A “YES, MY SWIMMER(s) WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE”
IF YOUR SWIMMER HAS 2 OR MORE ‘A TIMES” DO NOT ATTEND THIS MEET!!!!!
IF YOUR SWIMMER HAS “NO TIME” OR WOULD LIKE ONE LAST CHANCE TO MAKE AN “A TIME STANDARD”, PLEASE EMAIL COACH DAVE BY TUESDAY 8/2/2022…I APOLOGIZE FOR THE LATE NOTICE.
FAYSON LAKES READY TO CLOSE OUT DUAL MEET SEASON WITH 6th VICTORY
PACKANACK PIRATES @ FAYSON LAKES GATORS
THE GATOR SWAMP “Pool”
6:15pm Check-In
6:30pm Warm-Up
7:00pm Meet Start
The final competition of the Dual Meet portion of the summer swim season is upon us…Your FAYSON LAKES GATORS are an unprecedented 5-0 in league and Red Division competition. The final hurdle will come Wednesday evening as the Gators play host to the Pirates of Packanack. It is time to muster up all you can to make our TEAM STAR SHINE ITS BRIGHTEST for our home team GATOR NATION FAMILIES and FANS! The work has been done, the horses are in the stable, THIS IS OUR TIME TO SHINE! Go out there and swim your hearts out for our community and our team…ONE MORE TIME… LET’S GO GATORS!!!!!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
PA@FL Dual Meet: Wednesday Evening, August 3, 2022
COACHES’ CHOICE INVITATIONAL: Thursday Evening, August 4, 2022
ERSKINE ‘C’ INVITATIONAL: Saturday Morning, August 6, 2022
SUMMER VIBES BENEFIT SWIM MEET: To Benefit the Kinnelon Food Pantry…Wednesday August 10, 2022
ANNUAL SWIM ACROSS! Thursday August 11, 2022 (Swimmers of all ages are invited, bring noodles if you want!) Breakfast to follow!
END OF SEASON PIZZA PARTY and GATOR SLIDE SHOW!
‘A’ CHAMPIONSHIPS: Hosted by Packanack Lake Pirates, Saturday August 13, 2022 (if your Gator(s) qualify. Please check the website section LSC ‘A’ Championship Qualifier Tracker
LSC ‘A’ CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER TRACKER
Click on the BUTTONS below to see the most up to date Qualifying Events for your swimmer(s) (Button #1) / How Far away your swimmer is (Button #2) / The Current ‘A’ Standards (Button #3)
14 & Under SWIMMERS are permitted to swim 2 individual events and a relay
15-18 SWIMMERS are permitted to swim 3 individuals events and a relay
ONLY ONE RELAY (A Relay) is permitted to compete at the A Championships
REMAINING CHANCES TO QUALIFY FOR THE “ORIGINAL 2022 STANDARDS”
Highland B July 30
Packanack Dual Meet August 3
Coaches’ Choice Meet August 4
Erskine C Meet*** if necessary August 6, 2022
***STANDARDS ADJUSTMENT MEETING***
THERE WILL BE AN ADJUSTMENT TO MANY OF THE ‘A’ STANDARDS FOLLOWING THE RESULTS OF THE HIGHLAND ‘B’ MEET…STAY TUNED…SOME (or many) of the Qualifying standards will adjust based upon the speed of swimmers around the league this summer.
NO STANDARD WILL GET FASTER. Slower standards are a good possibility in many events (especially Breast and Fly).
If you have any questions or concerns, please email Coach Dave: leshswim@gmail.com
2022 FAYSON COACHES’ CHOICE MEET
Thursday August 4, 2022
@Fayson Lakes Pool
(6:30 warm-up / 7:00 Start)
The 2022 Coaches’ Choice meet is NEXT THURSDAY EVENING @FAYSON LAKES! This meet is iconic in the Lakeland Swim Conference. The original “championship meet” format pitted the top swimmer in each age group in each stroke discipline versus all the other top swimmers in the conference…an “all-star” event if you will. Each team swims in ONE ASSIGNED LANE for the entire meet, so you can channel all of your GATOR NATION ENERGY into our lane as our GATORS pour out their very best efforts to take home the 2022 Coaches’ Choice Championship! The four swimmers in each stroke also make up the Relay for their age group. This is one of the most exciting meets of the summer…mark your calendar…don your GATOR GEAR…BRING YOUR ENERGY to the pool to cheer on our FAYSON LAKES GATORS…DON’T MISS IT!!!
This is the most difficult process of the season as there are so many deserving Gators and the event is limited. Please understand that all of our Gator swimmers are “personal all-stars” to each of the coaches and we want you all to support each other as we always do…pouring all of our Gator-Energy into OUR LANE in support of our TEAM! Our successes are always more divine when we share them with our teammates…each of them are battling for FAYSON LAKES! Congratulations to our 2022 Coaches’ Choice Selections:
8&Under Selections
BOYS: Collin / Zac / Waylon GIRLS: Avery / Livy / Mackenzie
9/10 Selections
BOYS: Third / Owen / Huck / Joey GIRLS: Kayla / Callie / Charlotte S / Addie
11/12 Selections
BOYS: Nick W / Bodie / Sean / Nicky GIRLS: Sadie / Norah
13/14 Selections
BOYS: Trevor / Keiran / AJ / Everett GIRLS: Ella / Lindsey / Anna / Kylie
15/18 Selections
BOYS: Coach Kevin / Max / Will / Ben GIRLS: Charlotte M / Ellie / Grace / Julia M
ALTERNATES:
Watson / Addie / Alex / John M / Hannah / Haley K / Jonny P
GATORS Eye Up 5th Win in Row Versus Erskine Lakes
This Wednesday JULY 27, the Black & Orange from Erskine Lakes travel to the “Swamp” to take on your Fayson Lakes Gators in a non-division swim meet. Wednesday marks the first meet for some more of our Hatchlings as they gear up for theri BIG MEET at the Highland B this Saturday July 30 (see Highland B section below for details and entries). LET’S GO GATOR NATION! Bring the noise and pump up our swimmers as they continue to qualify for A Championships and extend their LAKELAND CONFERENCE DOMINANCE versus Erskine Lakes…GO GATORS!!!!
ARRIVE 6:15pm for CHECK IN
WARM-UP 6:30pm
MEET START 7:00pm
Gators Cruise to 5th Straight Victory!
The Fayson Lakes Gators sprinted to a 365-307 victory over the Flying Fish of Erskine Lakes in front of a solid Gator Nation Crowd (including special guest appearances by Coach Mackenzie and Coach Kiersten!!) last night at the Swamp. The Gator swimmers withstood an late flurry by Erskine swimmers in the Back and Free events, by winning 6 of 8 relays enroute to the final tally. Leading the charge were our fearless leaders Coach Kevin and Coach Ellie along with inspiring swims by many of our teammates…earning season best performances were:
Owen B (Breast & Free); Amanda B (Back) ; Mackenzie C (Fly); Callie C (Back); Zac C (Breast & Free); Aubrey C (Free); Ellie (Fly); Madison (Back & Free); Elenna (Fly); Lily (Breast); Addie (Breast & Back); Livy (Breast & Back); Mycah (Free); Haley K (Breast); Hannah (Fly, Back, Breast); Hazy (Fly & Free); Third (Breast); Ava (Free); Collin (great dive! & Breast); Sean (Fly); Julia M (Free); Ben (Fly); Caleb (Free); Kylie (Fly); Logan (tried Fly!!); Haddie (Back & Free); Jackson (Back & Free); Charlotte S (Breast & Back); Nick W (Breast)
Wednesday evening was also a very special moment for our Hatchlings, who left their shells behind as they transformed into FULL-FLEDGED GATORS!
PLEASE CONGRATULATE and WELCOME to OUR GATOR Family:
HARPER REID
FRANK THE GATOR is our weekly award for a swimmer who distinguished themselves to the coaches…This person(s) will get to “gator-sit” for a day or two as a new traditional reward. Parents…no worries here, as FRANK LOVES OUR SWIMMERS…doesn’t bite, is house trained, and doesn’t eat a thing :) THIS WEEK’s FRANK THE GATOR HONOREE is ELLIE DeKEUKELAERE! Ellie has volunteered with the team all season as well as the Hatchlings and creating “Ellie’s Babies” for extra help with swimming for any and all of our Fayson swimmers. Ellie goes above and beyond for the Gator community not only as a teacher/mentor but as a person who commands great respect amongst her teammates, and earned the same with the parents and coaching staff. Ellie also makes some amazing baked goods in addition to being a National Level Swimmer and super hero of swimming instruction! Please take a moment to congratulate and recognize Ellie when you see her for her immense contributions in and out of the water. Way to go ELLIE!!!!!
LOOKING AHEAD:
SATURDAY 7/30/22 HIGHLAND B INVITATIONAL
WEDNESDAY 8/3/22: HOME MEET versus PACKANACK PIRATES (LAST CHANCE TO QUALIFY FOR “A” CHAMPIONSHIPS)
THURSDAY 8/4/22: FAYSON COACHES CHOICE MEET ENTRIES POSTED THIS EVENING!
ERSKINE C INVITATIONAL E-mail coach DAVE “YES” if your swimmer(s) interest to attend this meet by Saturday 7/30/22. Coach Dave will determine if your swimmer(s) should swim after you choose YES or NO to attend.
Wednesday 8/10/22 SUMMER VIBES MEET (To benefit the Kinnelon Food Pantry)
Thursday 8/11/22: ANNUAL “SWIM ACROSS” and Breakfast 9:30am @Sabey’s Beach
Thursday 8/11/22: End of Season Pizza Party and Slide Show @6pm
Friday 8/12/22 LAST DAY OF PRACTICE (A qualifiers ONLY)
SATURDAY 8/13/22 CONFERENCE A CHAMPIONSHIPS @PACKANACK LAKE (8am-4pm) QUALIFIERS ONLY
GO GATORS!!!!
HIGHLAND LAKES “B” CHAMPIONSHIP
ARRIVE 7:30am
CHECK-IN with Coach Dave by 7:45 am
WARM-UP 8:00-8:25am (lane 4)
MEET START 9:00am
Calling all interested Gators for the B Championships at Highland Lakes.. This meet is primarily for HATCHLINGS aged 6 and younger AND SWIMMERS who HAVE NOT ACHIEVED Lakeland Conference A Time Standards (click on the button below to see the 2022 A Qualifying Time Standards ).
ALL HATCHLINGS AGED 4,5, or 6 years old as of 6/1/2022 are being entered into this Culminating Event. They will swim 25m of Backstroke and 25m of Freestyle. Trophies will be awarded to this age group ONLY. HATCHLINGS include any swimmer who has made it to the GATORS as well as any and all Hatchlings who are currently practicing with the Hatchling group. THEY ARE ALL READY TO BREAK OUT!!!
SWIMMERS who have ACHIEVED 1 or more A Time Standards (match or bettered the listed times) are permitted to swim in OPEN AGE GROUP EVENTS for the strokes that they have qualified for…OPEN EVENTS are those with athletes from any/all age groups including adults.
These same swimmers may also swim in the B Standard events for any event that they have NOT EQUALLED OR BETTERED the A TIME STANDARD.
IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, LET COACH DAVE KNOW IF YOUR SWIMMER(S) ARE INTERESTED IN SWIMMING and HE WILL CONTACT YOU ABOUT ELIGIBILITY and ENTRIES.
*Kyle B is no longer entered
*John M is questionable.
The Fayson Gators travelled to Highland Lakes for the “B” invitational on Saturday July 30. A small but mighty crew competed their fastest in all strokes. The following Gators excelled either with a best time, first time, or placed in the top 3 at the meet:
Joey (PR in Back & 2nd place Breast!)
Hayley (PR in Breast, 3rd place!)
Mackenzie (PR and NEW A TIME in FREE, 2nd place!)
Elenna (PR FLY and 2nd PLACE!)
Lily (PR in Back & Free)
Addie (PR Breast)
Collin (PR and NEW A TIME in BACK, 2nd place / PR in FREE, 1st PLACE!!! with a New A TIME)
Aubrey, Anna, Ava, Caleb, Teddy (Bk and Free)
Livy (Back, 2nd place! and Free)
Special FIRST RACE for FREDDY SOULE!!! Welcome to the GATORS :)
GATORS GOIN’ FOR #4
This Wednesday, your Fayson Lakes Gators travel past DQ to Bubbling Springs to take on West Milford in a cross-over meet (with a team in another division). West Milford competes in a “short course pool”, meaning it is only 25m in length versus the Gator’s pool which is actually the Olympic distance of 50m. Therefore, everyone gets a boost in the middle of their races!
Wednesday evening is also a very special moment for our Hatchlings, who will leave their shells behind as they transform into FULL-FLEDGED GATORS!
PLEASE CONGRATULATE and WELCOME ALL to OUR GATOR Family:
Teddy Smith
Haddie Parmer
Aubrey Conca
Amelia Bordonaro
Logan Papendick
Caleb Papendick
Your Fayson Gators were at it again Wednesday evening taking on the West Milford Swim Team at Bubbling Springs. A skeleton crew of our finest and newely minted Gators went back in time to the age of the Flintstones for an old school stripped down version of a swim meet right out of the 1970’s (when coach Dave was only 8yrs old!!!) The team swam their hearts out and came away with another road win. Our FLYERS BROKE THE MEET WIDE OPEN with a few 1-2-3 place finishes to subdue the West Milford Swimmers. Special acknowledgement to the MANY swimmers who swam up one age group and competed against older swimmers from our team and West Milford. This is not an easy task for athletes to do! A huge thank you to Julia S, Callie, Kayla, Charlotte S, Collin, AJ, & Sean! Additionally, I need to recognize the swimmers who come in 4th and 5th in our races. In a team sport like swimming, depth in any event is critical to winning meets in the summer and in High School. These are the unsung heroes who get the “tough battle” points that often are the difference in a win and a loss AND ALSO do not often get mentioned when talking about how the GATORS won a swim meet. In reality, it is not without these athletes that we could have accomplished what we have done so far in this 2022 GATOR Swimming season. The names are far to numerous to list them all…but from the past few meets some of these swimmers are: Griffin, Trevor, Sadie, Reagan, Alex, Johnny M, Jonny P, Julia M, Ben P, Third, Hazy, Jack P, Keiran, Abby, Mycah, and Nick W.
FRANK THE GATOR is our weekly award for a swimmer who distinguished themselves to the coaches…This person(s) will get to “gator-sit” for a day or two as a new traditional reward. Parents…no worries here, as FRANK LOVES OUR SWIMMERS…doesn’t bite, is house trained, and doesn’t eat a thing :) THIS WEEK’s FRANK THE GATOR HONOREE is REAGAN KAYDEN! REAGAN celebrated her birthday with us and had an amazing improvement in butterfly! Fun Fact: Reagan also shares her special day with Coach Dave’s daughter Marin! Reagan and I spent a little time to share this day together which was very meaningful to both of us. FAMILY is a cornerstone of the GATORS SWIM COMMUNITY and Reagan helped make our Gator Family Star a little brighter last night! Thank you for being a GREAT KID on your special day REAGAN!
LOOKING AHEAD:
SATURDAY 7/23/22 (Coach Dave’s 53rd Birthday!) PEQUANNOCK INDIVIDUAL AGE INVITATIONAL
WEDNESDAY 7/27/22: HOME MEET versus ERSKINE LAKES
SATURDAY 7/30/22: HIGHLAND LAKES “B” CHAMPIONSHIP. ENTRIES DUE 7/24/22 E-mail coach DAVE “YES” if your swimmer plans to attend this meet
GO GATORS!!!!
GATORS SPLASH WEST MILFORD…MOVE TO 4-0!!!
HOME OPENER: WEDNESDAY vs Lake Mohawk
Tomorrow night the Hawks of Lake Mohawk will roll into Fayson to compete against our Gators as we host our Home Opener for the 2022 Summer season. The Hawks are a formidable opponent, narrowly defeating Wayne in their first meet of the season. Your Gators will be FIRED UP for this great opportunity to test our team tenacity and spirit!
Wednesday evening is also a very special moment for seven of our Hatchlings, who have left their shells behind and have transformed into FULL-FLEDGED GATORS!
PLEASE CONGRATULATE and WELCOME to the Family:
Waylon Stovesand
Ava McGrath
Jack Parmer
Abby Gulino
Alivia Galluscio
Mycha Gifford
Anna Marchiano
THERE ARE MORE COMING TOO!!!!!
COME OUT AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR OUR FAYSON LAKES GATORS:
WEDNESDAY NIGHT JULY 13
6:15 CHECK-IN
6:30 Warm-up
7:00pm START!!!
LET’S GO MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Coach Dave
GATORS WIN to go 3-0!
Last night at the “Swamp” Your FAYSON LAKES GATORS took it to the SwimHawks from Lake Mohawk…coming away with another victory over a team with over 150+ swimmers! It was an epic battle, which saw many lead changes, close finishes, personal bests and unsung relay heroes. The Gators were led by individual first place finishes from: Coach Ellie, Kylie, Norah, Sean, Avery, Max, Callie, Everett, Owen, Will and Anna. Our Girls 9-10 relay was victorious in a huge race which saw the Hawks getting DQ’s while Reagan, Addie, Elenna, and Madison swam a perfect race to win 8-0! The most exciting races of the evening came from our NEWEST GATORS in the 50 BACK and 50 FREE…The JUNIOR COACHES are to thank for their patience and time in preparing these Hatchlings for their exciting start as GATORS! Thank you coaches:
HANNAH KLOUSE
HAZY KLOUSE
TREVOR D’ANTON
EVERETT FEINHALS
KYLIE PAPENDICK
ELLA BOHAN
AJ CONNELLY
ELLIE DEKEUKELARE
KEIRAN FITZGERALD
LINDSEY MATTIE
FRANK THE GATOR is our weekly award for a swimmer who distinguished themselves to the coaches…This person(s) will get to “gator-sit” for a day or two as a new traditional reward. Parents…no worries here, as FRANK LOVES OUR SWIMMERS…doesn’t bite, is house trained, and doesn’t eat a thing :) THIS WEEK’s FRANK THE GATOR HONOR goes to COLLIN MCGRATH for resilience to bounce back from a tough start to the meet, to anchor the 8&Under relay to a super exciting come-from-behind victory when the GATOR “STAR” NEEDED TO SHINE BRIGHTEST for a TEAM VICTORY!
WAY TO GO COLLIN!!!
NEXT MEET: WEDNESDAY 7/20/22 @WEST MILFORD
PEQUANNOCK INVITATIONAL ENTRIES ARE DUE 7/17/22. EMAIL COACH DAVE WITH A “YES” if your Gator is planning to participate (leshswim@gmail.com)
GATORS LOOKING TO GO 2-0
Fayson Lakes facing a deep Pequannock squad on Wednesday 7/06/22
It’ll be all hands on deck Wednesday night as the Gators travel to PV PARK for a showdown with the other 2021 division co-champion of the Red Division. Did you know…only 3 swimmers per team are eligible to score in any event at a dual meet (one team versus another)? That means that of the 184 swimmers on the opponent’s team only the three swimmers in the first heat of every event are eligible to score points for their team. Even if other swimmers in other heats are faster than the first heat!
INDIVIDUAL EVENT Scoring is as follows:
1st=6 points
2nd=4 points
3rd=3 points
4th=2 points
5th=1 point
RELAY SCORING IS:
1st=8 points
2nd=4 points
MEET LOCATION:
“PV PARK” 1 Marvin Road Pompton Plains, NJ 07444
CHECK-IN (with Coach Dave) by 6:15pm
WARM-UP (EVEN LANES)6:30pm
GATORS END 35+ YEAR DROUGHT v PEQUANNOCK
RECAP: The GATORS chomped on the Piranhas of Pequannock last night 340-318! This accomplishment marked the first time in over 35 years that a Fayson Lakes Swim Team had defeated the Piranhas…WHOAAAAA!!!!! This one too, came down to the wire…culminating with the 13/14 Boys (Nick, Kieran, Trevor, & John M) and 15/18 Mixed (Will, Max, Grace, & Julia M) relays putting the finishing touches on a powerful team showing. GATOR NATION ROSE UP IN FULL FORCE to cheer on all of our swimmers in a total team victory. This win puts the Gators in command of the LAKELAND SWIM CONFERENCE Division beating both 2021 co-champions on their respective home turf.
The TEAM WAS THE STAR once again with ALL Gators swimming their hardest to get their hand or hands on the wall before their opponents. Each performance added a little more brightness to our STAR as the Gators improved to 2-0 on the season.
FRANK THE GATOR is our weekly award for a swimmer who distinguished themselves to the coaches…This person(s) will get to “gator-sit” for a day or two as a new traditional reward. Parents…no worries here, as FRANK LOVES OUR SWIMMERS…doesn’t bite, is house trained, and doesn’t eat a thing :) THIS WEEK’s FRANK THE GATOR HONOR goes to AVERY MATTIE for dominating all of her events and leading the 8&Under crew to key wins in the meet. WAY TO GO AVERY!!!
FUN FACT: We chose the name “FRANK” for historical/legendary purposes…according to local legend Coach Kevin…Frank Fay and his Son were the namesake (FAY-SON) to naming “Fayson Lakes”
This week’s MVP is MACKENZIE CLUNEY for her perseverance and overcoming fears to swim an amazing relay leg that brought our Way to go GATORS!!
LET’S GO RACIN’ FAYSON
GATORS TRAVEL TO WAYNE for REMATCH WITH LEAGUE CHAMPS
Following one of the biggest upsets of the 2021 season which saw our hometown Gators take down the mighty Wayne Waves at “the swamp”…The 2022 Gators will travel to Toms Lake to swim /our tails off and take another bite out of the competition…Everyone and every race counts…BRING YOUR ENERGY TO YOUR LANE and make it happen!
GPS: Captain Kilroy Park (Toms Lake) 6 Concord Place WAYNE, NJ 07470
RECAP: The GATORS swam into Wayne last night and took down the 2021 league champion Wayne Waves by a score of 313-307! This one came down to the final relay with the entire team cheering on our teams to VICTORY.
All of our Gators were integral parts in forging our team victory…from our dominating veteran swimmers (shout out to our 11&older girls and boys as a group!) first time swimmers (Amanda B in fly!; Madison D in backstroke) to unsung heroes (Watson and John M) there were many MVP’s of this meet!
FRANK THE GATOR is our weekly award for a swimmer who distinguished themselves to the coaches…This person(s) will get to “gator-sit” for a day or two as a new traditional reward. Parents…no worries here, as FRANK LOVES OUR SWIMMERS…doesn’t bite, is house trained, and doesn’t eat a thing :) This week’s MVP is MACKENZIE CLUNEY for her perseverance and overcoming fears to swim an amazing relay leg that brought our 8&Under relay into first place, setting the stage for our big comeback over the Waves. Congrats Mackenzie!
Way to go GATORS!!
Biathlon Recap…
The 2021 Biathlon is in the books! 20 Gators participated along with Coaches Kiersten and Dave…
Ben and Jonny went back and forth with Jonny taking the swim, then Ben rocked the Lake run to take the lead for good and win the event for the boys.
Ellie smoked the field in the swim with a speedy 4:01 dash from Sabey’s to the pool! She finished first for the girls and 4th overall.
BATTLE OF THE DAY: Griffin v. Coach Kiersten… an epic finish to the tape!
Congrats to all of the swimmers coaches, and parents who helped make this a success on FUN THURSDAY! Special to all the “rookies” who were inaugurated into this great tradition of BIATHLON and all the parents and younger GATORS who came out to support us for this super fun event!
One last THANK YOU to all the Gator Parents who fed all of us an amazing post-race breakfast…sooo yummy :)
WE MADE IT HAPPEN.
~Coach Dave
7/14 MEET EVENTS
WEDNESDAY JULY 14, 2021
(GREEN POND @ FAYSON GATORS)
DIRECTIONS:
CLICK on the Link below to find your SWIMMERS NAME, EVENTS and HEAT/LANE (looks like a little “Fraction” after their “event name”…50 Fly 1/4 (read: Heat 1 / Lane 4)
BIATHLON (Revised)
JOIN US ON THURSDAY JULY 15, 2021…FOR THE ANNUAL FAYSON GATOR BIATHLON!!!
BIATHLON is a SWIM and RUN Event for all GATOR SWIMMERS ages 11 & OLDER
PLEASE REPORT TO THE POOL by 9AM. We will all walk over to SABEY’S for the Swim portion.
BIATHLON STARTS @9:15!
CHECK IN WITH COACH DAVE at the Meet if you haven’t signed up yet!
$5 donation per participant for the breakfast. Please remit to Coach Dave or pay via VENMO.
ONLY SWIMMERS AGES 11 & OLDER CAN PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT
ALL GATORS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CHEER ON OUR BIATHLETES and SHARE IN THE BREAKFAST TOO!
REGULAR PRACTICE WILL BE HELD @11:15 (9-10 year olds) AND @12:15 (8& Under)
SHORE DAY POSTPONNED
Unfortunately, Mother Nature is still a little upset and the forecast is for rain an t-storms throughout the day in Kinnelon and down the shore. Therefore, the trip AND practices are cancelled for MONDAY 7/12/2021 We will look for an alternate date later in the season, if possible, to take our traditional shore trip.
This announcement is for those who did not get the REMINDER, I hope you all enjoy your extended weekend. See you all at practice tomorrow as we prepare for our HOME MEET vs. GREEN POND on 7/14/2021.
~Coach Dave
BLUE / WHITE MEET
Hello GATOR NATION!
Holy Cow! We had an AH-MAZE-ING start to the 2021 season with the traditional BLUE/WHITE MEET!! Great swims, good friendly battles, and tons of FUN!!!
Shout out to Coach Kiersten for making two super competitive line-ups that were SOOOO CLOSE, that YOU ALL HAD TO BREAK THE TIE with your speedy swims!
…With tons of posters, dress-up costumes, war paint, mustaches, cheering and FAST SWIMS…the night was especially memorable for the coaches as we finally went LIVE! in 2021.
Congratulations to the BLUE TEAM as they narrowly edged the WHITE TEAM by a mere 16 points!!!!
Great Community, Competition, Camaraderie and Fun was had by all!
Special THANK YOU to all of our COOKS, BAKERS, REFRESHMENT PROVIDERS, COORDINATORS and SERVERS for the delicious team pot-luck that followed this AWESOME EVENT!
~Coach Dave
BElieve
THEre is
GOOD in the world
these results are unofficial, cannot be used for championships
INVITATIONAL SIGN UP #1
PEQUANNOCK INDIVIDUAL AGE INVITATIONAL
SATURDAY JULY 17, 2021
SIGN UPS: FRIDAY JULY 9, 2021 @ PRACTICE (EMAIL COACH DAVE until 8:00pm if you cannot attend practice)
HOW TO SIGN UP…Simply tell Coach Dave that your swimmer is interested in committing to swim on the above date. Coach will take care of the rest! if you can’t make it to see Caoch Dave, email him at leshswim@gmail.com
COMPETE WITH SWIMMERS YOUR OWN AGE (ex: 9 yo. swims ONLY other 9 yo. swimmers)
OPPORTUNITY TO SWIM ALL FOUR STROKES with TONS OF REST!
LEAVE WHEN YOU ARE FINISHED SWIMMING FOR THE DAY!
“POINTS-IN-THE-BOWL”
In an effort to further build deeper roots within the FAYSON GATORS SWIM TEAM, I have brought one of my most favorite TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES to our community:
“POINTS-IN-THE-BOWL”
A little history behind the activity…my oldest daughter, Jordan and I were talking in the car one day as we traveled home from a swim meet. I asked her why she thought kids liked to swim in the summer? Her answer was simple…”to learn how to get better and be with her friends.”
So we dove a little deeper and came up with a season long “game” that encouraged teammates to be for each other and recognize each and every one of them for the little things they brought to the team each week. PR’s (personal records); finally unlocking a new racing skill; mastering a technique for a stroke; discovering a piece to their own “puzzle” in swimming; being a great teammate; showing positive leadership; demonstrating determination, grit, humility, discipline, etc…anything that contributes to making the FAYSON GATORS SWIM TEAM a better place to be a part of.
HOW IT WORKS:
Each week on FUN THURSDAY or BEFORE PRACTICE on FRIDAY, each practice group will gather to contribute their “points” into the community BOWL (a decorated fishbowl!) for all to see.
a “point” is represented by a single marble, which is deposited into the BOWL.
as the points grow in number the team continues to strive to add more and more to the total which will be revealed at the end of each season!
At the conclusion of the season, each GATOR SWIMMER will have a “point” bequeathed back to them…the only task that they must do, is SHARE THEIR STORY OF THEIR CONTRIBUTION to the FAYSON GATOR COMMUNITY and why swimming for the GATORS was so meaningful to them as a person.
We’ve contributed so much already! Try and guess how many “points” are in the BOWL, and continue to contribute in any positive way that you can. WE are making great memories each and every day.
~Coach Dave
BElieve
THEre is
GOOD in the world
SIGN UP FOR “REMIND APP”
TEXT 81010
to
@faysong
Get the quickest updates for practice info, cancellations, notifications etc.
GATORS WEBSITE 2021
Dear Gator Families,
Thank you for your continued patience, as I familiarized myself with our Team Site. Shout outs to Mackenzie Orr and Peter Hiorth for assisting me and the coaching staff with “squarespace”!
Here is what your will find in this space moving forward in the 2021 Swim Season:
Calendar of Events
Dual Meet Entries (Line-up)
Meet Results (times from meets)
Invitational Meet Information & Entry Procedures For Invitationals
Coaching Staff “Shares” with the team (Tips, Blog, Gator Swimming info…etc)
Procedures
and anything else we can add for your information and connection to “Gator Nation” for the 2021 Season.
Thank you to each and every swimmer and family member who have volunteered, cheered, served food and especially our swim board for making this season happen!
Coach Dave
BElieve
THEre is
GOOD in the world
Practice Groups are posted!
Practice starts Monday Morning!!!!!!
Come ready to swim! Bring your goggles and caps! Swimmers will swim within their own age group. Group changes for personal/ family scheduling will not be permitted. Coach Dave will discuss the "flipped classroom" at the Blue/White Meet this Wednesday, June 30th!
Get excited for our first Meet of the 2021 year!!!! It is going to be fun!!
Swim Team Awards 2020
Hello All!
Our three coaches have put together a very special awards video for everyone on the team! The regular awards that we usually do unfortunately did not fit with this season, so to make it fun we did paper plate awards! Enjoy the fun and silly awards and a small slide show at the end. Congratulations again this summer and we will see you all next year!
Link to the awards video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnbHP0gQIns&feature=youtu.be
A Message from Coach Mackenzie
Fayson Gators,
It has come to our attention that unfortunately we will not be able to finish out our season as planned. Between the loss of power and certain beach issues we will not be able to hold our last meet scheduled for this Saturday. Although we might not get to have our traditional goodbyes we, the coaches, just want to say that we are so proud of everyone this season! 2020 has come with unique situations and I was glad we were able to get the kids in the water safely in these challenging times. Being able to have some normalcy at the beach this summer has done all of us good. We met many new faces and seen much improvement in so little time! I hope to see everyone back in the lanes next summer ready to crush more times and most importantly have fun! Thank you all for your support and care helping make this season happen, we really couldn’t have done it without the community! Stay safe and even though I might not see you in the lanes I’ll see you at the beach soon!
Best,
Coach Mackenzie
Updated 8/4 - No Practice Wednesday or Thursday
No practice Wednesday or Thursday and no meet Wednesday night. In accordance with FLA Association.
8/4 - All Practices Canceled
Tuesday 8/4 - all practices canceled due to tropical storm warning and NJ state of emergency
8/8 Championship Meet Sign Ups!
Last meet will be held on Saturday August 8th down at Main Beach. Please use the link below to sign up for the meet, what you want to swim is all your choice! Have fun with the new events and we can’t wait to see all the improvement this season!
Warm ups begin at 8:30 AM and meet starts promptly at 9:30 AM
Swimmers 9/under may pick two events and a relay. Swimmers 10/up may swim three events and a relay.
Parents, family, and alumni - there is even events for you!
Sign up here: https://forms.gle/vmM6uVMBGQAG5paW6
7/29 - Meet Line Ups Posted
Please view under the documents tab your warm up assignments and event/lane assignments.
8/Under Kick board relay will be the first event, right after the warm-ups!
7/15 Meet Results Posted
Meet results posted under documents then meet results.
We had some minor difficulties so please bare with us as some results/events/names look different. As always if you have any questions please email our coaches @ flaswimteam@yahoo.com