VHST Spring/Summer 2026 Tryouts
Tryout Dates and Times:
- 8 & UNDER -
- 9 YRS - 13YRS -
- 13 YRS & 15 YRS -
- 15 YRS - Over -
How to Register:
I apologize, but all spots for the tryout sports are currently filled. If you'd like to be added to our waiting list, please CLICK HERE. Once we schedule a new date, you will be informed first.
Please complete this form before the tryouts to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Location of Tryouts:
The tryouts will take place at the Vernon Hills High School Aquatic Center, known for its optimal conditions for competitive swimming.
What to Expect at Tryouts:
During the tryouts, swimmers will be evaluated within their training group by all the coaches present. They will assess each swimmer's safety, comfort in the water, and swimming skills based on specific criteria outlined below.
Activities Included in the Tryout:
Swimmers will be asked to perform freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly in drills, kicking, and full-stroke swimming, covering distances of 25 to 100 yards. They will do this multiple times with brief pauses. Coaches will observe swimmers' techniques. Additionally, coaches will assess skills such as flip turns, open turns, and streamlined positions.
Criteria for Team Selection:
We are specifically looking for swimmers who are confident and comfortable in deep water and can swim efficiently with their face submerged. Ideally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to swim the full length of the 25-yard pool as requested by the coaches without stopping or showing signs of struggle. The expectation is that swimmers can perform this multiple times effectively, with minimal breaks between laps.
Tryout Results posted here - March 15th @ 12:00 Noon
If your swimmer successfully qualifies to join VHST, their results and group placement will be posted on our website. At that time, you can visit the Sullivan Center in Vernon Hill to register your swimmer(s) in person. Please register early, as there is limited space in the groups; it is on a first-come, first-served basis. The short course season runs from September to March, followed by the long course season, which takes place from early April to the end of July.
VHST is a competitive swim club affiliated Park district and with USA Swimming, which supports a vast network of over 400,000 member swimmers throughout the nation. Our dedicated coaching staff fosters a competitive yet supportive environment, where young athletes can cultivate friendships, boost their self-esteem, and learn how to set and achieve personal goals in swimming.
Team practices will typically occur in the evenings, 5:00 PM or later, with the exact timing depending on the assigned group. While 100% attendance is not mandatory, regular practice is strongly encouraged to maximize improvement and team cohesion.
VHST will evaluate if your swimmer should begin with recreational meets— an excellent introduction to competitive swimming—or if they are ready to participate in USA Swimming sanctioned competitions, which occur 1-2 times per month and are characterized by a higher level of competition. If your swimmer is part of VHST, they are undoubtedly ready for their first swim meet! Our coaching staff is committed to guiding new swimmers through these initial competitive experiences, ensuring they feel confident and prepared.
As a Park District, VHST relies on the active involvement of its member families to ensure smooth operations. Our funding comes from season dues and various fundraising efforts, and we also welcome sponsorship of the team from companies. Each season, we host 2-4 Park District swim meets at Vernon Hills High School. These events offer valuable opportunities for you to fulfill your volunteer hours. Active participation from all parents during these meets is essential and greatly appreciated, making it an easy way to meet your mandatory volunteer requirements.
If you have any questions or require further information about tryouts, please reach out to Coach Enrico McConney at enricom@vhparkdistrict.org We are here to assist you and ensure a positive experience for all swimmers and their families.