| Description |
United States Masters Swimming (USMS) is an organized program of swimming for adults which has over 43,000 members, a few of whom are in their 90's and even 100's, but anyone 18 or over can join.
It is not necessary to have previous experience in competitive swimming. USMS, Inc. is the National Governing Board which provides the administrative structure for Masters swimming. USAS (United States Aquatic Sports) is USMS's parent organization (and it also parents Diving, Synchronized Swimming, Age group (youth) Swimming and Water Polo). However, Masters swimming is very much a grass roots organization.
The country is divided into eight regional zones comprised of smaller groups called Local Masters Swimming Committees (LMSC). LMSC's in turn are composed of smaller groups (clubs or teams and unaffiliated swimmers). New EnglandLMSC, Inc. is a part of the Colonies Zone.
As an individual, you may choose to join a team or club and enjoy the camaraderie and structure of the group. Competition is optional. Only 30% or so of Masters swimmers compete in swimming meets on a regular basis.
For those who are serious competitors, there are an incredible number of opportunities to test your skill and conditioning. Short Course (25 yard and 25 meter) and Long Course (50 meter) pool meets, lake and ocean open water swims, postal meets, special events and international championships are all part of an ambitious program of Masters swimming.
Masters swimming in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Maine is governed by the New England LMSC which itself had over 1,800 members in 4 clubs at the close of the 2006 Season. |
