Welcome to the 2026 Summer League Season!
The Austin Ridge Rapids Swim Team (ARRST) is a member of the Rappahannock Swim League (RSL), a summer recreational swim league. Approximately 2,500 swimmers compete on 25 teams in the RSL, which, this year, will be divided into four divisions.
ARRST competes in the Patriot Division this year which includes the following swim teams: Hampton Oaks Hurricanes, Aquia Harbor Dolphins, Leeland Station Leeland Express, Hopyard Hammerheads, Spotsylvania YMCA Dragons
At this time, we plan on holding practices starting 26 May 2026 and running through 25 July 2025. These dates are subject to change as we get closer to the season.
Online registration will be opening on 06 April 2026. We will be holding an ice cream social on 13 April 2026 from 6pm-7:30pm and 21 April 2026 from 6pm-7:30pm at the community center. At this time you will be able to meet Coach Bianca, our fabulous head coach, ask any questions you may have and buy ARRST gear such as towels, shirts, goggles and swim caps.
Please check back periodically as these dates are subject to change.
Officials Training
As you know, our team is a volunteer run team and we have many positions that need to be filled. We need many filled that require RSL training.
Here is the link for information about training. It talks about position and requirements, and talks about needed training. It lists all training dates. If you plan to attend just make sure you let me know so I can keep track of what positions we have on board for our team.
https://rsl.swimtopia.com/training
Certified positions are:
Head Timer, Clerk of Course and Head Scorekeeper (ALL New training combined and certifies you in Head timer, Clerk of course and Head Scorekeeper according to the website)
Stroke and Turn
Referee
Starter
We are always in extra need of Stroke and Turn positions as we need to have 4 per meet from each team.
Prerequisites
To join the Austin Ridge Rapids Swim Team, your child must:
- Austin Ridge resident between 4 and 18 years old
- Be no older than 18 as of June 1
- Be able to swim one length of the pool (any stroke) without assistance
We give all swimmers a two week "grace period". If they are close to making it across the pool, they are allowed to attend practice for two weeks to show they can make it across without stopping.
Little Kraken Program
We are introducing a new program and I wanted to tell you a little bit about it:
The Little Kraken Program: For kids who haven't made it across the pool
June 15-July 24
Practice: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 10-10:30am
Exceptions: Practice will occur on June 18 vice June 19 and July 2 vice July 3.
Limit 5 kids per coach.
$250 a swimmer. (Prorated based on price already paid to join the team)
Criteria for acceptance: Must be close to making it across the pool. Swimmers will be assessed prior to admittance.
Depending on instructor discretion, swimmers will remain in the footwell of the pool or one lane of the pool.
Instruction will be provided by one of the swimmer coaches or main coaches.
If the swimmer eventually makes it across the pool, they can join the main team or they are welcome to stay a Little Kraken. Refunds will not be given once payment has been made.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to create a fun and competitive environment where every swimmer is encouraged to excel, recognized for individual commitment, and rewarded for personal and team achievement.
Vision
The Austin Ridge Rapids will be recognized by the Rappahannock Swim League for our quality swim program as measured by both our league competitiveness and the satisfaction of our swimmers and parents.
