To make your experience with us as smooth and informative as possible, we've put together this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. Here, you'll find answers to some of the common queries that our visitors often have.
Prospective members must complete a freestyle trial of ten continuous lengths in a 25-yard pool (250 total yards). This trial includes demonstrating proper stroke technique and breathing under the observation of a VAST coach.
Upon successful completion, prospective members will receive an application, VAST liability waiver, and a Villages sports waiver. The next step is a meeting with the Membership Chair, during which you'll submit completed paperwork and pay annual dues. Initial membership costs are $130 if joining between January 1 and June 30, or $65 if joining between July 1 and December 31. Subsequent annual dues are $130, payable in January. New members will also be introduced to the VAST website and program.
To schedule a trial with VAST, please email vastvillages2002@gmail.com to request an appointment. The VAST Board reserves the right to close membership based on factors like available pool time and coaching capacity, as decided by the Board.
1. Prospective swimmers will contact VAST through the following email vastvillages2002@gmail.com.
2. Prospective swimmers will be referred to a coach from VAST who will contact them and set up an interview to discuss general information about the team (team structure, practices, etc.) and to find out what their swimming background has been and what are their swimming goals.
3. Prospective swimmers will be required to attend and observe a VAST practice.
4. Prospective swimmers have observed a VAST practice and the interview information is completed, a tryout will be scheduled. A tryout will consist of 1250 yards of various skill sets to determine if the prospective swimmers are capable of doing our minimum workouts scheduled in practices.
5. Prospective swimmers that successfully complete the tryout will be given a Membership Application and referred to our Membership Chair to get registered with the team. Dues for the year are $55.
Nurturing Excellence Since 2002:
Welcome to VAST
Founded in 2002, VAST has stood as a steadfast guardian of swimmers within The Villages, offering a sanctuary of safety and unwavering support.
Our Vision
At VAST, our vision is clear: to create an environment that not only fosters skill development but also empowers every swimmer to reach their loftiest aspirations.
Empowerment Through Support
With a firm commitment to your growth, we provide the foundation upon which your swimming journey takes flight. Join us and embark on a path of achievement, supported every stroke of the way.
VAST is a Lifestyle Club of The Villages and serves full-time Senior residents of The Villages. Generally, our members are 50 years old and older.
To use the Sports Pools, you need to be a permanent resident of The Villages, aged 30 or older. This policy is set by The Villages administration. If you meet these criteria, you're eligible to swim with VAST once you join the team. For further details, refer to "Outdoor Courts & Equipment Use Guidelines" on The Villages website [districtgov.org].
Unfortunately, no. VAST operates as a closed Lifestyle Club. To swim with VAST, you'll need to become a club member. Refer to the joining requirements provided below.
Villages residents who can swim and complete a few laps independently can consider joining the "Lap, Swim Drills" group at Colony Cottage Rec Center Pool. The group, led by Deb Deignan, meets on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 3:00 pm to 3:50 pm. Refer to your Villages App or Recreation News for the detailed schedule. To contact Deb, you can reach out to her at debdeignan@aol.com.
Unfortunately, non-residents are not permitted to use The Villages Sports Pools according to the policy set by The Villages Recreation Department. Regrettably, this means you cannot swim with VAST, as VAST is a Lifestyle Club exclusively for Villages residents and not a USMS team.
Unfortunately no. The only way to practice with the VAST swim team is to be a member of the team.
VAST offers 10 coached workouts weekly across 3 pools. Workouts are scheduled as follows:
Please refer to the Recreation News for specific workout times. Remember, participation during contracted practice times requires VAST membership.
Adult Learn-to-Swim (ALTS) classes are offered at Rohan Recreation Center from April to October, during the last week of each month.
To learn more, contact Rohan Recreation Center or request information at vastvillages2002@gmail.com.
Participation in any VAST activity or event is currently not mandatory.
Yes. The yearly dues right now are $55.00 for all members.
We do allow a one-time reduced fee for new members who join July - December. This is for first year members only. All returning members pay the full yearly dues of $55.00
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