Brute Squad

Brute Squad kicks off November 1st, and this year's theme is "Become the Dragon" — the idea of pushing through something hard and coming out stronger on the other side. There's a way for almost everyone to take part: swim it, time someone, cheer people on, or donate. You can do the Full Brute or Brute Light, competitively or non-competitively, and there are three easy ways to complete it — sign up at the podium during a regular workout at Civic, swim it during weekend lap swim (no sign-up needed), or come to Brute Day on Saturday, November 21st. Workouts keep building toward it through the end of October.

Welcoming New Swimmers

DAM is looking to grow and is asking everyone to help welcome new swimmers — be patient, help them learn the flow of practice, and make them feel at home. Bring a friend to try it out: DAM offers a free 30-day trial, and so does USMS. The minimum bar to join the team is being able to swim 100 continuous yards of freestyle with side breathing; for anyone not quite there, the Adult Learn-to-Swim program returns this summer, and a new bridge program is in the works.

Pool Covers

As it gets colder, the pool covers are back in regular use, and extra hands are needed before the first workout and after the last one each day, plus at the start and end of weekend lap swim.

Business Partnerships

If you own a business or know someone who does, DAM is open to partnerships — logo placement on a team shirt or the Berryessa shirt, sponsorship of Berryessa or a meet, a spot on the pool banner, or a shout out in the Tuesday Message. Reach out to Andee Bell at andee@howmuchyabench.net.

Save the Date

Mark your calendar for the DAM Annual Meeting and Holiday Party on Saturday, December 12th at 6:00 PM — more details to come.

Social Media

DAM is growing its social media presence to show off the team and bring in new swimmers. No one gets featured without being asked first, though you might show up in the background of a pool deck photo or video; if you'd rather not appear at all, email Matt at mzachan@damfast.org.

Upcoming Competitions

18th Annual Brute Squad — Nov 1–30, any 25-yard pool
Santa Rosa Masters Resolution Meet — Jan 23, Santa Rosa Junior College
Olympic Club 1500 Meet — Jan 30, San Francisco
USF Valentine's Affair — Feb 6, San Francisco
DAM SCY February Swim Meet — Feb 13, Schaal
Armada Sprint Pentathlon — Feb 20, Albany
The City Mile — Feb 28, San Francisco

Workout Rotation

Week of 10/19: Monday Distance, Tuesday Kick/Pull, Wednesday IM, Thursday Sprint, Friday Distance, Saturday Coach Choice
Week of 10/26: Monday Kick/Pull, Tuesday IM, Wednesday Sprint, Thursday Distance, Friday Kick/Pull, Saturday Coach Choice

Board Meeting

Next board meeting: Monday, November 9th at 6:30 PM in the Brady Building.

CLUB SPIRIT

DAM Looks Back on a Strong Fall, Ahead to a Big 2027

Davis, Calif. — DAM's Head Coach and CEO is thanking members for a warm Coach Appreciation Week and a well-attended Fall Picnic, calling the club "a special community" built on the support of its members. More social events outside the pool are planned through the year for anyone who missed the picnic.

Looking ahead, Brute Squad opens November 1st, and the club will close out the year with its Holiday Party in December. "I think 2027 is going to be another big DAM year," the club's leadership said, pointing to a full slate of plans heading into year's end and beyond.

RECORD BOOK

DAM Swimmers Rewrite the SCM Record Book

DAM swimmers put up a wave of new short course meters records at the DAM September Classic and the Pacific Masters SCM Championship. Matt Roper led all swimmers with six new records — the 400, 800, and 1500 Free, plus the 50, 100, and 200 Back. Emma Garforth added five of her own, in the 50, 100, and 200 Free, the 50 Breast, and the 100 Back, while Jane Russell set four, in the 200 Back, the 100 and 200 Breast, and the 50 Fly. Gianluca Urlando cleared the 100 and 200 Fly by wide margins.

Additional record-setters included Emmie Appl (200 Free, 50 Breast), Chelsea Schiano (400 Free, 200 IM), Helene Nehrebecki (200 Free, 100 Fly), Kristin Duby (50 and 200 Breast), Greg Menna (50 Fly), Linda Buchanan (50 Free), Cecily Sprouse (200 Breast), David Woodruff (100 Breast), and Andrew McPherson (50 Fly).

COMING THIS FALL

18th Annual Brute Squad Opens November 1

The Ross Yancher Brute Squad, one of DAM's longest-running traditions, begins November 1st. Swimmers can take it on as the Full Brute (200 Fly, 400 IM, 1650 Freestyle) or Brute Light (100 Fly, 200 IM, 500 Freestyle), each completed either competitively — swum legally, without equipment — or non-competitively, where swimmers can use equipment, modify strokes, or adjust the challenge to fit their own ability. "You do not have to be an IM swimmer to participate," the club said.

The event doubles as a club fundraiser, and new Brute Squad T-shirts are on the way this year. Workouts will build toward the challenge through longer IM and freestyle work in October, with sign-up sheets at the podium starting November 1st, chances to complete the Brute during regular workouts or lap swim, and a dedicated Brute Day later in the month.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Matt Roper Named 2026 Dorothy Donnelly Service Award Recipient

DAM is congratulating Matt Roper on being named a 2026 recipient of U.S. Masters Swimming's Dorothy Donnelly Service Award, one of USMS's top honors for volunteers whose service has made a significant impact at the local, regional, and national levels of Masters Swimming. "Thank you for everything you do for Masters Swimming and our community," the club said.

LOCAL PARTNER

Members Save 10% on Gear at Swim America Davis

DAM is encouraging members to shop local for goggles, caps, and fins at Swim America Davis, located at 2121 2nd Street, Suite A101. The shop stocks the same equipment used at DAM workouts, and DAM members receive 10% off equipment purchases, with additional holiday discounts expected later in the year.

UPCOMING COMPETITIONS

18th Annual Brute Squad — November 1–30, Any 25-Yard Pool

Registration and event details are coming soon.

Santa Rosa Masters Resolution Meet — January 23, Santa Rosa Junior College

Olympic Club 1500 Meet — January 30, San Francisco

USF Valentine's Affair — February 6, San Francisco

Info and registration coming soon.

DAM SCY February Swim Meet — February 13, Schaal (Davis)

Info and registration coming soon.

Armada Sprint Pentathlon — February 20, Albany

Info and registration coming soon.

The City Mile — February 28, San Francisco

Info and registration coming soon.

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of October 12 and 19

Week of 10/12: Monday – Sprint · Tuesday – Distance · Wednesday – Kick/Pull · Thursday – IM · Friday – Sprint · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 10/19: Monday – Distance · Tuesday – Kick/Pull · Wednesday – IM · Thursday – Sprint · Friday – Distance · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: October 14 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, October 14th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

MEET RECAP

DAM Swimmers Shine at Pacific Masters SCM Championships

Walnut Creek, Calif. — DAM swimmers took to the pool at the Pacific Masters Short Course Meters Championships this past weekend, with club leadership praising both the racing and the camaraderie on deck. "It was great to see our DAM swimmers racing, supporting one another, and representing our team," the club said.

Individual DAM records will be updated next week. Relay records are also getting an overhaul to ensure they're accurate, complete, and easier to read going forward — the club is asking for patience while that cleanup continues.

SAVE THE DATE

DAM Fall Picnic Set for October 10 at Arroyo Park

DAM families are invited to gather Saturday, October 10th, starting at 4:30 p.m., in the new picnic area near the pool at Arroyo Park. Members are asked to bring their own dinner and drinks along with a snack or dessert to share, and lawn games — cornhole, ladder toss, and lawn darts among them — are welcome additions to the evening. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

CELEBRATE OUR COACHES

Coach Appreciation Week Runs October 5–11

DAM is marking Coach Appreciation Week from October 5 through 11, encouraging members to thank coaches who've helped with their stroke, confidence, fitness, or simply brought good energy to a workout. Gifts are welcome but not required — a quick thank-you on deck or a short note goes a long way. For those who'd like to bring a gift, club favorites include Dos Coyotes, Chipotle, In-N-Out, Trader Joe's, and Starbucks; members are reminded that Coach Matt has Celiac disease, so any treat for him should be gluten-free.

Members can also recognize a coach in writing through DAM's Coach Thank You document, or share their own DAM experience in the club's Tell Your DAM Story document — testimonials the club uses to celebrate its community and show prospective members and supporters its impact.

COMING THIS FALL

18th Annual Brute Squad Returns November 1–30

The Ross Yancher Brute Squad kicks off November 1st and runs through the end of the month. DAM will spend October building toward the event with longer IM and freestyle work, and workouts will gradually increase over the coming weeks. Full event details are still to come, with the club aiming to make this year's Brute Squad its biggest yet.

LOCAL PARTNER

Members Save 10% on Gear at Swim America Davis

DAM is encouraging members to shop local for goggles, caps, and fins at Swim America Davis, located at 2121 2nd Street, Suite A101. The shop stocks the same equipment used at DAM workouts, and DAM members receive 10% off equipment purchases, with additional holiday discounts expected later in the year.

GRAND PRIX

October Points Opportunity: The DAM Fall Picnic

DAM's Grand Prix offers one way to score points this month: attending the DAM Fall Picnic at Arroyo Park on October 10th.

UPCOMING COMPETITIONS

18th Annual Brute Squad — November 1–30, Any 25-Yard Pool

Registration and event details are coming soon.

Santa Rosa Masters Resolution Meet — January 23, Santa Rosa Junior College

Olympic Club 1500 Meet — January 30, San Francisco

USF Valentine's Affair — February 6, San Francisco

Info and registration coming soon.

DAM SCY February Swim Meet — February 13, Schaal (Davis)

Info and registration coming soon.

Armada Sprint Pentathlon — February 20, Albany

Info and registration coming soon.

The City Mile — February 28, San Francisco

Info and registration coming soon.

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of October 5 and 12

Week of 10/5: Monday – IM · Tuesday – Sprint · Wednesday – Distance · Thursday – Kick/Pull · Friday – IM · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 10/12: Monday – Sprint · Tuesday – Distance · Wednesday – Kick/Pull · Thursday – IM · Friday – Sprint · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: October 14 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, October 14th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

LOOKING AHEAD

DAM Gears Up for Fall Picnic, October Buildup to Brute Squad

Davis, Calif. — DAM is heading into a busy fall stretch, starting with the club's Fall Picnic at Arroyo Park on Saturday, October 10th. Club leadership is framing the gathering as a chance for members to connect beyond the pool deck. "It's a great chance to get to know the people in the lane next to you and meet their families," the club's Head Coach and CEO said in this week's message.

From there, attention turns to the 18th Annual Ross Yancher Brute Squad, which opens November 1st. The club will use October to build toward the event, with workouts gradually lengthening in preparation. "Let's be DAM Strong," the club said, previewing a fall built around both community and hard work.

SAVE THE DATE

DAM Fall Picnic Set for October 10 at Arroyo Park

DAM families are invited to gather Saturday, October 10th, starting at 4:30 p.m., in the new picnic area near the pool at Arroyo Park. Members are asked to bring their own dinner and drinks along with a snack or dessert to share, and lawn games — cornhole, ladder toss, and lawn darts among them — are welcome additions to the evening. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

CLUB GOVERNANCE

Board Seeks Nominations for Four Open Director Seats

The DAM Board of Directors is accepting nominations to fill four seats for the 2027–2028 term. Directors serve two-year terms overseeing club bylaws, budget, and policy, with commitments rising during fundraisers, the Lake Berryessa Open Water Swim, and meets hosted by DAM. All nominees must be DAM members in good standing.

Members may nominate themselves or a teammate — nominators putting forward a teammate should confirm that person's willingness to serve first. Statements of interest (200 words) and a photo are due October 2nd, 2026, and should be sent to Board Member Kent Anderson at kentaanderson@gmail.com.

CELEBRATE OUR COACHES

Coach Appreciation Week Runs October 5–11

DAM will honor its coaching staff during Coach Appreciation Week, October 5 through 11. Gifts are welcome but not required — club leadership notes that a word on deck or a quick thank-you note means just as much to coaches who put in the hours to help swimmers improve.

COMING THIS FALL

18th Annual Brute Squad Returns November 1–30

The Ross Yancher Brute Squad kicks off November 1st and runs through the end of the month. DAM will spend October building toward the event with longer IM and freestyle work, and workouts will gradually increase over the coming weeks. Full event details are still to come, with the club aiming to make this year's Brute Squad its biggest yet.

CLUB CULTURE

New Guidance on Lane Etiquette for Workout Handoffs

DAM has issued a reminder on lane etiquette to keep workout transitions smooth and swimmers safe. Members staying on for the next session become part of that workout and should swim its 10-minute warm-up with the group rather than lingering at the wall, while staying alert to swimmers entering the lane and confirming they're in the correct lane if assignments shifted.

Swimmers arriving late are asked to check with the coach on deck before entering the water, wait for the current swim to finish before joining, alert their lane mates, and fall into the lane's existing plan rather than starting their own.

LOCAL PARTNER

Members Save 10% on Gear at Swim America Davis

DAM is encouraging members to shop local for goggles, caps, and fins at Swim America Davis, located at 2121 2nd Street, Suite A101. The shop stocks the same equipment used at DAM workouts, and DAM members receive 10% off equipment purchases, with additional holiday discounts expected later in the year.

GRAND PRIX

Three Ways to Score Points Through Early October

DAM's Grand Prix offers several chances to earn points in the weeks ahead: the 30-days-of-September challenge — 30 minutes of swimming a day through the end of the month (a late start is fine); the Pacific Masters SCM Championships in Walnut Creek, October 2–4; and the DAM Fall Picnic at Arroyo Park on October 10th.

UPCOMING COMPETITION

2026 PMS SCM Championship — October 2–4, Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

Registration and details are available through DAM's weekly email.

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of September 28 and October 5

Week of 9/28: Monday – Kick/Pull · Tuesday – IM · Wednesday – Sprint · Thursday – Distance · Friday – Kick/Pull · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 10/5: Monday – IM · Tuesday – Sprint · Wednesday – Distance · Thursday – Kick/Pull · Friday – IM · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: October 14 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, October 14th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

LOOKING AHEAD

DAM Calendar Fills Up With Championship Meet, Fall Picnic, Brute Squad on the Horizon

Davis, Calif. — DAM has a packed stretch ahead, starting with the Pacific Masters Short Course Meters Championship Meet next weekend in Walnut Creek. Club leadership is encouraging members to join in, whether they're looking for another shot at SCM racing after DAM's own meet or diving into the format for the first time.

The club then shifts to a lower-key gathering on October 10th, when members head to Arroyo Park for DAM's Fall Picnic — a chance to spend time with teammates outside the pool. Looking further out, Brute Squad opens November 1st, and the club's Head Coach and CEO is urging swimmers to start building toward it now.

Members looking to take on a bigger role in the club have an opportunity too: Board of Directors nominations are currently open. "We'd love to hear from you," the club said in its weekly message.

SAVE THE DATE

DAM Fall Picnic Set for October 10 at Arroyo Park

DAM families are invited to gather Saturday, October 10th, starting at 4:30 p.m., in the new picnic area near the pool at Arroyo Park. Members are asked to bring their own dinner and drinks along with a snack or dessert to share, and lawn games — cornhole, ladder toss, and lawn darts among them — are welcome additions to the evening. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

CLUB GOVERNANCE

Board Seeks Nominations for Four Open Director Seats

The DAM Board of Directors is accepting nominations to fill four seats for the 2027–2028 term. Directors serve two-year terms overseeing club bylaws, budget, and policy, with commitments rising during fundraisers, the Lake Berryessa Open Water Swim, and meets hosted by DAM. All nominees must be DAM members in good standing.

Members may nominate themselves or a teammate — nominators putting forward a teammate should confirm that person's willingness to serve first. Statements of interest (200 words) and a photo are due October 2nd, 2026, and should be sent to Board Member Kent Anderson at kentaanderson@gmail.com.

CELEBRATE OUR COACHES

Coach Appreciation Week Runs October 5–11

DAM will honor its coaching staff during Coach Appreciation Week, October 5 through 11. Gifts are welcome but not required — club leadership notes that a word on deck or a quick thank-you note means just as much to coaches who put in the hours to help swimmers improve.

LOCAL PARTNER

Members Save 10% on Gear at Swim America Davis

DAM is encouraging members to shop local for goggles, caps, and fins at Swim America Davis, located at 2121 2nd Street, Suite A101. The shop stocks the same equipment used at DAM workouts, and DAM members receive 10% off equipment purchases, with additional holiday discounts expected later in the year.

GRAND PRIX

Three Ways to Score Points Through Early October

DAM's Grand Prix offers several chances to earn points in the weeks ahead: the 30-days-of-September challenge — 30 minutes of swimming a day through the end of the month (a late start is fine); the Pacific Masters SCM Championships in Walnut Creek, October 2–4; and the DAM Fall Picnic at Arroyo Park on October 10th.

UPCOMING COMPETITION

2026 PMS SCM Championship — October 2–4, Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

Registration and details are available through DAM's weekly email.

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of September 21 and 28

Week of 9/21: Monday – Distance · Tuesday – Kick/Pull · Wednesday – IM · Thursday – Sprint · Friday – Distance · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 9/28: Monday – Kick/Pull · Tuesday – IM · Wednesday – Sprint · Thursday – Distance · Friday – Kick/Pull · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: October 14 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, October 14th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

MEET RECAP

Record Turnout at Schaal Meet: 144 Swimmers Smash Club's Goal

Davis, Calif. — September 15, 2026

DAM's meet at Schaal this past weekend drew 144 swimmers to the deck, blowing past the club's goal of 100 and marking one of the best-attended events the club has hosted in recent memory. The turnout translated into a well-run event for competitors and a strong fundraising boost for the club.

The meet's success rested on more than 50 volunteers who stepped up to run the event, from timing to hospitality. Head Coach and CEO singled out two standouts for special recognition: Brad Winsor, who ran computer operations, and Kevin Waterson, who served as Head Referee. "We could not have run the meet without you guys," the club said in its weekly update.

Every DAM swimmer who competed also earned praise for representing the club well in the water. Club leadership confirmed more meets like this one are on the way, and encouraged members who missed this event — whether racing or volunteering — to get involved next time.

SAVE THE DATE

DAM Fall Picnic Set for October 10 at Arroyo Park

DAM families are invited to gather Saturday, October 10, starting at 4:30 p.m. in the new picnic area near the pool at Arroyo Park. Members are asked to bring their own dinner and drinks along with a snack or dessert to share, and lawn games — cornhole, ladder toss, and lawn darts among them — are welcome additions to the evening. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

CLUB GOVERNANCE

Board Seeks Nominations for Four Open Director Seats

The DAM Board of Directors is accepting nominations to fill four seats for the 2027–2028 term. Directors serve two-year terms overseeing club bylaws, budget, and policy, and commitments rise during fundraisers, the Lake Berryessa Open Water Swim, and meets hosted by DAM. All nominees must be DAM members in good standing.

Members may nominate themselves or a teammate — nominators putting forward a teammate should confirm that person's willingness to serve first. Statements of interest (200 words) and a photo are due October 2, 2026, and should be sent to Board Member Kent Anderson at kentaanderson@gmail.com.

CELEBRATE OUR COACHES

Coach Appreciation Week Runs October 5–11

DAM will honor its coaching staff during Coach Appreciation Week, October 5 through 11. Gifts are welcome but not required — club leadership notes that a word on deck or a quick thank-you note means just as much to coaches who put in the hours to help swimmers improve.

LOCAL PARTNER

Members Save 10% on Gear at Swim America Davis

DAM is encouraging members to shop local for goggles, caps, and fins at Swim America Davis, located at 2121 2nd Street, Suite A101. The shop stocks the same equipment used at DAM workouts, and DAM members receive 10% off equipment purchases, with additional holiday discounts expected later in the year.

GRAND PRIX

September Points Opportunities Still Open

Two chances remain this month to score points in DAM's Grand Prix standings: the Keller Cove Open Water Swim at the Pac Masters Championships on September 20, and a 30-days-of-September challenge — 30 minutes of swimming a day through the end of the month (a late start is fine).

UPCOMING COMPETITION

2026 PMS SCM Championship — October 2–4, Walnut Creek

The 2026 PMS SCM Championship will be held October 2–4 at Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek. Registration and full details are available through the meet listing.

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of September 14 and 21

Week of 9/14: Monday – Sprint · Tuesday – Distance · Wednesday – Kick/Pull · Thursday – IM · Friday – Sprint · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 9/21: Monday – Distance · Tuesday – Kick/Pull · Wednesday – IM · Thursday – Sprint · Friday – Distance · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: October 14 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, October 14, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

MEET SPOTLIGHT

DAM SCM Classic Turnout Swells to 114 Swimmers Ahead of Saturday Meet

Davis, Calif. — Registration for the DAM SCM Classic has surged to 114 swimmers, one of the biggest turnouts DAM has hosted, with the meet set for this Saturday, September 12th, at Schaal Pool. The jump marks a sharp climb from a week earlier, and organizers say the response reflects genuine enthusiasm for a rare opportunity: Short Course Meters races are uncommon on the Pacific Masters calendar.

Swimmers who still want in have until tomorrow evening to register — Wednesday, September 9th, at 11:59 p.m., after which registration closes. "If you've been thinking about it, now's the time," the club's Head Coach and CEO said in this week's message.

With the swimmer field filling out, organizers say the greatest remaining need is volunteers for the meet's second shift, where afternoon coverage is running short. Timing, marshaling, and safety roles all depend on volunteer support, and members able to give a few hours Saturday are asked to sign up via the SignUpGenius link in DAM's weekly email.

The meet is both a team-hosted event and a fundraiser for the club, with all proceeds going directly back to DAM. "However you show up, racing or volunteering, you're giving back to the club and making it stronger," the club said.

MEET DETAILS

DAM SCM September Classic — Registration Closes Wednesday

The DAM SCM Classic takes place September 12th at Schaal, with all proceeds from the short course meters meet supporting the club directly. Registration closes September 9th at 11:59 p.m. Members can register, sign up to volunteer, or donate toward meet operations — including hospitality, supplies, and staffing — through the links in DAM's weekly email.

SAVE THE DATE

DAM Fall Picnic Set for October 10 at Arroyo Park

DAM families are invited to gather Saturday, October 10th, starting at 4:30 p.m., in the new picnic area near the pool at Arroyo Park. Members are asked to bring their own dinner and drinks along with a snack or dessert to share, and lawn games — cornhole, ladder toss, and lawn darts among them — are welcome additions to the evening. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

CLUB GOVERNANCE

Board Seeks Nominations for Four Open Director Seats

The DAM Board of Directors is accepting nominations to fill four seats for the 2027–2028 term. Directors serve two-year terms overseeing club bylaws, budget, and policy, with commitments rising during fundraisers, the Lake Berryessa Open Water Swim, and meets hosted by DAM. All nominees must be DAM members in good standing.

Members may nominate themselves or a teammate — nominators putting forward a teammate should confirm that person's willingness to serve first. Statements of interest (200 words) and a photo are due October 2nd, 2026, and should be sent to Board Member Kent Anderson at kentaanderson@gmail.com.

GRAND PRIX

September Points Opportunities Stack Up

Three chances to score points in DAM's Grand Prix standings arrive this month: the DAM SCM Classic on September 12th, where both swimming and volunteering earn points; the Keller Cove Open Water Swim at the Pac Masters Championships on September 20th; and a 30-days-of-September challenge — 30 minutes of swimming a day through the end of the month (a late start is fine).

COMMUNITY

Aquadart Alumni Invited to Celebrate Carolee Gregg's Retirement

DART is hosting a retirement celebration for longtime coach Carolee Gregg, bringing together families from across her years running Summerdarts and coaching Aquadarts/DART. Organizers are inviting alumni from all eras to attend and are asking families to pass the invitation along. RSVPs aren't required but help with planning; details on RSVPing and on contributing to a retirement gift are included in the invite. Questions can be directed to jamie.kiarie@dartswimming.

UPCOMING COMPETITIONS

DAM SCM September Classic — September 12, Schaal Aquatic Center (Davis)

Registration and donation links are available through DAM's weekly email.

2026 PMS SCM Championship — October 2–4, Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

Registration and details are available through DAM's weekly email.

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of September 7 and 14

Week of 9/7 (Holiday Short Swims): Monday – IM · Tuesday – Sprint · Wednesday – Distance · Thursday – Kick/Pull · Friday – IM · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 9/14: Monday – Sprint · Tuesday – Distance · Wednesday – Kick/Pull · Thursday – IM · Friday – Sprint · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: September 9 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, September 9th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

MEET SPOTLIGHT

DAM SCM Classic Nears 100-Swimmer Goal Ahead of Saturday Meet

Davis, Calif. — The DAM SCM Classic meet arrives Saturday, September 12th at Schaal Pool, with organizers closing in on a milestone turnout. Registration currently stands at 74 swimmers, and the club's Head Coach and CEO is pushing for 100 by race day.

Short Course Meters races are uncommon on the Pacific Masters calendar, making the meet a rare chance for DAM swimmers — from first-timers to seasoned racers — to test themselves in a format they don't often see. "If you've been on the fence, consider this your nudge to jump in," the club said in its weekly message.

Beyond the pool, the meet runs on volunteers timing, marshaling, and keeping swimmers safe, and organizers are asking members who can spare a few hours Saturday to sign up. The event also serves as a fundraiser for the club, with proceeds supporting DAM directly. "However you show up — racing, volunteering, or cheering from the deck — you're making DAM stronger," club leadership said.

Registration closes September 9th at 11:59 p.m. Swimmers, volunteers, and those who'd like to support the meet without racing can register, sign up, or donate through the links in DAM's weekly email.

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Labor Day Hours Move to Civic Pool, September 7

DAM will run a holiday schedule on Labor Day, Monday, September 7th, with sessions at 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 a.m., all held at Civic.

OPEN WATER RECAP

DAM Open Water Swimmers Close Out a Strong Summer

DAM is celebrating a summer of open water accomplishments beyond the season's headline events at Lake Berryessa and Trans Tahoe. Club members took on swims across the region, including:

Del Valle: Vivian Crow, Jennifer Phalen, Marcus Casaes, Maurice Pitesky, Jane Russell, Brad Winsor, Kim Elsbach

Donner Lake: Jennifer Phalen, Kim Elsbach, Simone McCreary, Haelie Tweet, Brian Bolz, Brad Winsor, Vivian Crow

Lake Tahoe: Annie Anderson, Erica Wright, Kristin Duby, Vivian Crow

Santa Cruz: Brad Winsor, Jane Russell, Kim Elsbach

Golden Gate to Bay Bridge Swim: Ernie Hoftyzer, Maurice Pitesky, Brad Winsor

"Congratulations to everyone who got out there. Go DAM!" the club said. One open water opportunity remains this season: the Keller Cove swim, the region's last of the year — sign-up is open now.

SAVE THE DATE

DAM Fall Picnic Set for October 10 at Arroyo Park

DAM families are invited to gather Saturday, October 10th, starting at 4:30 p.m., in the new picnic area near the pool at Arroyo Park. Members are asked to bring their own dinner and drinks along with a snack or dessert to share, and lawn games — cornhole, ladder toss, and lawn darts among them — are welcome additions to the evening. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

CLUB GOVERNANCE

Board Seeks Nominations for Four Open Director Seats

The DAM Board of Directors is accepting nominations to fill four seats for the 2027–2028 term. Directors serve two-year terms overseeing club bylaws, budget, and policy, with commitments rising during fundraisers, the Lake Berryessa Open Water Swim, and meets hosted by DAM. All nominees must be DAM members in good standing.

Members may nominate themselves or a teammate — nominators putting forward a teammate should confirm that person's willingness to serve first. Statements of interest (200 words) and a photo are due October 2nd, 2026, and should be sent to Board Member Kent Anderson at kentaanderson@gmail.com.

GRAND PRIX

September Points Opportunities on the Board

Two chances to score points in DAM's Grand Prix standings arrive this month: the DAM SCM Classic on September 12th, where both swimming and volunteering earn points, and the Keller Cove Open Water Swim at the Pac Masters Championships on September 20th.

COMMUNITY

Aquadart Alumni Invited to Celebrate Carolee Gregg's Retirement

DART is hosting a retirement celebration for longtime coach Carolee Gregg, bringing together families from across her years running Summerdarts and coaching Aquadarts/DART. Organizers are inviting alumni from all eras to attend and are asking families to pass the invitation along. RSVPs aren't required but help with planning; details on RSVPing and on contributing to a retirement gift are included in the invite. Questions can be directed to jamie.kiarie@dartswimming.

UPCOMING COMPETITIONS

DAM SCM September Classic — September 12, Schaal Aquatic Center (Davis)

Registration and meet donation links are available through DAM's weekly email.

2026 PMS SCM Championship — October 2–4, Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

ON DECK

Workout Rotation: Weeks of August 31 and September 7

Week of 8/31: Monday – Kick/Pull · Tuesday – IM · Wednesday – Sprint · Thursday – Distance · Friday – Kick/Pull · Saturday – Coach Choice

Week of 9/7 (Holiday Short Swims): Monday – IM · Tuesday – Sprint · Wednesday – Distance · Thursday – Kick/Pull · Friday – IM · Saturday – Coach Choice

CLUB CALENDAR

Next Board Meeting: September 9 at the Brady Building

The DAM Board of Directors will meet Wednesday, September 9th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Brady Building.

CEO/Head Coach Message

Our Fall Classic SCM meet on September 12th at Schaal Pool is coming up fast, and it's a rare shot at Short Course Meters racing — a course we almost never get to swim in Pacific Masters. Whether you're a seasoned racer or trying your first meet, there's a place for you on the blocks.

This meet is also a fundraiser for DAM, so please jump in however you can: sign up to swim, sign up to volunteer, or simply show up and cheer. However you support it, you're helping make this club stronger. Let's make the Fall Classic one to remember.

Two more record-breaker shout outs from Nationals that we missed last week:

• Brad Winsor: 800 Free
• Kyle Rausch: 50 Back

Congrats to all our Nationals swimmers and record breakers!

DAM SCM September Classic Meet

We're excited to host a short course meters meet on 9/12 at Schaal.

This is a great chance to get some short course meters swims in while supporting the team — all proceeds go directly to the club.

Registration is currently OPEN!! You can sign up HERE.

Since this is a DAM hosted event we will be asking for some volunteer help. Click HERE to sign up to volunteer. Thank you for your support!

Want to support the meet but can't volunteer or swim... click HERE to donate to the meet. Your donation will go to support meet operations like: hospitality, meet supplies, and staffing.

Save the Date - DAM Fall Picnic - Oct 10th

Join us Saturday, October 10th at Arroyo Park for our DAM Fall Picnic! We'll gather in the new picnic area near the pool starting at 4:30pm and stay until you're ready to head home.

Bring your own dinner and drinks, plus a snack or dessert to share with the group. Got lawn games? Bring 'em! Cornhole, lawn darts, the ladder toss — anything you can set up on the grass for some friendly competition.

Family and friends are all welcome, so bring your crew and come enjoy an evening of good food and great company.

See you at the park!

Calling All Aquadart Alumni

Come celebrate the legend that is Carolee Gregg! DART is planning Carolee's retirement party. We are bringing together people from all the years she has been running Summerdarts and coaching Aquadarts/DART.

See below for the invite and please pass on to any other families who might want to attend! People don't have to RSVP but it helps us get a count. In the invite is also information on how to donate to her gift. If you have issues RSVPing email: jamie.kiarie@dartswimming

Click HERE to RSVP

Competitions

2026 DAM SCM September Classic

• Date: Sept 12th, 2026
• Location: Schaal Aquatic Center (Davis)
• Click HERE to register and for more information
• Click HERE to donate to the meet

2026 PMS SCM Championship

• Date: Oct 2-4
• Location: Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

Workout Rotation

Week of 8/24/26

• Monday - Distance
• Tuesday - Kick/Pull
• Wednesday - IM
• Thursday - Sprint
• Friday - Distance
• Saturday - Coach Choice

Week of 8/31/26

• Monday - Kick/Pull
• Tuesday - IM
• Wednesday - Sprint
• Thursday - Distance
• Friday - Kick/Pull
• Saturday - Coach Choice

DAM Board Meeting

Our next board meeting will be held on 9/9/26 at 6:30 pm in the Brady Building.

CEO/Head Coach Message

Our swimmers had a great showing at Summer Nationals in Sacramento a couple weeks back. It was a strong weekend across the board — the team came home having broken more than two dozen individual DAM team records, plus a handful of relay marks. Nice work by everyone who raced.

Congratulations to the following swimmers who broke individual DAM team records at Summer Nationals:

• Helene Nehrebecki: 50 Breast
• Kristin Duby: 100 Breast
• Emma Garforth: 200 Back, 400 IM
• Michal Sue Weinman: 50 Breast
• Linda Buchanan: 50 Free, 400 Free, 200 IM
• Peggy Reedy: 50 Free
• Betty Dugan: 50 Free, 100 Free, 200 Free, 50 Back
• Matt Roper: 100 Back, 200 Back
• Brad Winsor: 100 Free, 400 Free
• David Woodruff: 100 Breast, 200 Breast, 200 Fly
• Andrew McPherson: 50 Breast, 50 Fly
• Paul Griffin: 1500 Free
• Matt Zachan: 1500 Free

And congratulations to the following record-breaking relays:

• Women's 200 Medley Relay: Emma Garforth, Michal Sue Weinmann, Mel Belluomini, Helene Nerehebecki
• Women's 200 Free Relay: Jane Russell, Emma Garforth, Michal Sue Weinman, Jennifer Phalen
• Men's 200 Medley Relay: Brad Winsor, Kyle Rausch, Kent Anderson, Josef Bittman
• Mixed 200 Free Relay: Andy McPherson, Hugh Wilder, Leslie Westergaard, Betty Dugan
• Mixed 200 Medley Relay: Leslie Westergaard, Andy McPherson, Hugh Wilder, Peggy Reedy

Want to get your name on this list — or just come race with your teammates? Our Short Course Meters Fall Classic Meet is Friday, September 12 at Schaal Pool. Check out the info below.

DAM SCM September Classic Meet

We're excited to host a short course meters meet on 9/12 at Schaal.

This is a great chance to get some short course meters swims in while supporting the team — all proceeds go directly to the club.

Registration is currently OPEN!! You can sign up HERE.

Since this is a DAM hosted event we will be asking for some volunteer help. Click HERE to sign up to volunteer. Thank you for your support!

Want to support the meet but can't volunteer or swim... click HERE to donate to the meet. Your donation will go to support meet operations like: hospitality, meet supplies, and staffing.

Save the Date - DAM Fall Picnic - Oct 10th

Join us Saturday, October 10th at Arroyo Park for our DAM Fall Picnic! We'll gather in the new picnic area near the pool starting at 4:30pm and stay until you're ready to head home.

Bring your own dinner and drinks, plus a snack or dessert to share with the group. Got lawn games? Bring 'em! Cornhole, lawn darts, the ladder toss — anything you can set up on the grass for some friendly competition.

Family and friends are all welcome, so bring your crew and come enjoy an evening of good food and great company.

See you at the park!

Calling All Aquadart Alumni

Come celebrate the legend that is Carolee Gregg! DART is planning Carolee's retirement party. We are bringing together people from all the years she has been running Summerdarts and coaching Aquadarts/DART.

See below for the invite and please pass on to any other families who might want to attend! People don't have to RSVP but it helps us get a count. In the invite is also information on how to donate to her gift. If you have issues RSVPing email: jamie.kiarie@dartswimming

Click HERE to RSVP

Competitions

2026 DAM SCM September Classic

• Date: Sept 12th, 2026
• Location: Schaal Aquatic Center (Davis)
• Click HERE to register and for more information
• Click HERE to donate to the meet

2026 PMS SCM Championship

• Date: Oct 2-4
• Location: Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

Workout Rotation

Week of 8/17/26

• Monday - Sprint
• Tuesday - Distance
• Wednesday - Kick/Pull
• Thursday - IM
• Friday - Sprint
• Saturday - Coach Choice

Week of 8/24/26

• Monday - Distance
• Tuesday - Kick/Pull
• Wednesday - IM
• Thursday - Sprint
• Friday - Distance
• Saturday - Coach Choice

DAM Board Meeting

Our next board meeting will be held on 9/9/26 at 6:30 pm in the Brady Building.