Junior Swim-Beluga Whales
The Belugas is a starter swim team for children between the ages of 4-6 who may not be quite ready for the Killer Whales.
Our hope is that by the end of the season, all Belugas will be able to swim 15 yards of freestyle independently and be ready to join the Killer Whales next year!
At the beginning of the season, Belugas must be:
* Between ages 4-6
* Able to jump off the side of the pool independently
* Able to listen to instruction and follow directions
* Able to put his or her face under water
* Able to float independently.
The Belugas season will open Monday June 1st and conclude with a mini meet. (No practice on Sat 7/11 due to Cary City Meet)
The Belugas will practice 6 times per week alongside the Killer Whales.
Coaches encourage swimmers to attend at least 3 practices per week.
2026 Practice Schedule:
Evening practices begin June 1, 2026
Morning practices begin June 15, 2026
- Monday Mornings - 9:30-10am
- Monday Afternoons - 4:30-5pm (Group A), 6-6:30pm ( Group B)
- Tuesday Mornings - 9:30-10am
- Wednesday Afternoons - 4:30-5pm (A), 6-6:30pm (B)
- Thursday Mornings - 9:30-10am
- Thursday Afternoons - 4:30-5pm (A), 6-6:30pm (B)
- Friday Mornings - 9:30-10am
The Beluga season will run from June 1-July 18 and will conclude with a mini meet and celebration at the end of the season.
Please email [email protected] to let us know you are interested in joining the Beluga Whales.
If you are unsure whether your child is ready for the Beluga program, we recommend that you also use that email to request a swim test, so that the coaches can advise you of the best placement for your swimmers. (swim lessons vs Belugas vs Killer Whales)
Please note that your family MUST join the Shepherd's Vineyard Pool in order to participate in this junior swim program.
FAQs
What happens if a swimmer learns quickly and/or is placed on the wrong swim team?
A swimmer can move up from the Belugas to the Killer Whales at any time in season! If this happens, the swimmer can participate in meets and will swim with the appropriate age group. On the flip side, if a swimmer isn’t quite ready for the Killer Whales, he or she can practice with the Belugas to learn and gain confidence.
How many practices per week do you recommend?
To get the most out of the Beluga program, we recommend swimmers attend at least 3 practices per week.
Why does the season begin later?
This will allow the pool and air to warm up for the smaller swimmers.
Where will the Belugas practice?
In the lap lanes, on the shallow end of the pool.
Who will instruct the Belugas?
The Belugas will have experienced coaches, just like the Killer Whales!
Do we have to attend Tuesday night swim meets?
Not if you don’t want to! Belugas won’t be swimming in the Tuesday night meets so they aren’t required to attend. However, if you’d like to stop by to cheer on the Killer Whales, we’d love to have you!
Does my child have to wear a team swimsuit?
No, a team suit is not required. If you want to buy one that is fine but it is NOT required.
This sounds great! How do I sign up?
Registration for the Belugas will be handled alongside swim team registration on our website on April 27, 2026.
Please email [email protected] to put your name on the interest list, so we can reach out to you with updates.
