Dear Parents,

            This is a plea for all parents but especially for those with a swimmer or swimmers between the ages of 11 and 18. Over the last couple of weeks, it has been noticed that several children are coming to practice and.being very disruptive; not following instruction and even some showing disrespect towards coaching staff and other adults. There may have even been some possible use of foul language as well. We know that we are coming upon summer and the end of the school year and the children are anxious or excited, but some of this behavior is just unacceptable. We are certain that you as a parent would not like to be treated in this manner by anyone’s children. Please have a long hard discussion with each and every one of your children about this matter. The Cypress Creek Barracudas team prides itself on having a positive atmosphere where all our swimmers can have fun, attain success and reach their goals. Right now, that is not happening. We would like to nip this in the bud since it is just the start of the season. Please help us with this matter by speaking with your children about following instruction and being respectful towards all adults and their teammates.

Some specific issues that can be addressed are:

* Any coach calling "swimmers ready" means that ALL swimmers are at the wall. feet on the wall, hands and head in ready position, listening for further instructions. They all know this position.

* If you are not going to complete a drill, modify the drill or get out and go home. Do not argue with the coach or tell them "no." (unless there is a specific medical reason which should be addressed before practice.)

*Coaches are not "stupid" and neither are your teammates.  Leave that word, and all other foul language in the parking lot.

* There are no handstand drills at swim practice. And we only do somersaults at flip turns.

*There is NEVER any pushing into the pool or holding anyone under water.  This is extremely dangerous and can result in serious injury.

This is a summer league and it is supposed to be fun but it is also supposed to be teaching life lessons of sport and sportsmanship which include learning to deal with winning and losing as well as working with officials, teammates and coaches. Those lessons are unattainable if every practice is some sort of chaos. Again, please talk with your children. Now……LET’S SWIM!!!! Go Barracudas!!!!