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.
