05/24/2021
As we approach the end of the CISD school year, I wanted to inform you all of some changes that will be coming at the NAT, and how we will be conducting practices. Throughout the pandemic, the CISD Natatorium has been very gracious during the COVID-19 global pandemic in allowing us to spread out across lanes when available to protect our more “mature” population.
Beginning June 1, the NAT will transition to a majority Long course configuration:
- M/W/F 5:30am – 3 lanes Long course
- T/Th 9:00am – 4 lanes Short course
- M-F 12:00pm – 5 lanes Long course
- M-Th 7:00pm – 4 lanes Short course
- Sat 11:00am – 8 lanes Short course
- Sun 1:00pm – 5 lanes Long course
- Our T/Th 5:30am workouts at Northampton remain unchanged
What does this mean for WMST practices and the Sign Up Genius? Well, it means that we will be opening up our workouts to an unlimited number of people for the Sign Up Genius. We will still be requiring you to sign up for practices on the Sign Up Genius for a few reasons: namely that our weekly waiver is included in it, and also so that swimmers will have an idea of how crowded practice may be to determine if they are comfortable attending. We will continue this through the month of June as we transition.
Additionally, beginning June 1, the CISD Natatorium will no longer be requiring masks for their employees and patrons. WMST will be following CDC guidelines, allowing for those who are fully vaccinated to be on deck and in the locker rooms without a mask if they so choose, and those who are not fully vaccinated must continue to wear their masks.
If you have not yet had an opportunity to get your COVID-19 vaccine and your primary care physician has recommended you to do so, you are encouraged to get your vaccine to protect yourself and others. WMST Vice President Ted Eicks (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) is still receiving emails from members with their vaccine information – as of this email, WMST is above a 60% vaccination rate for active swimmers. We will still abide by the restrictions put in place by the NAT at a minimum.
WMST will not be separating lanes into “vaccinated” and “un-vaccinated” lanes. The onus is on the individual swimmer to make decisions that are safest for themselves, and the rest of our team. For those swimmers who wish to be in a less crowded environment – you will be allowed to swim from the far end of the pool. You are welcome to group up with your regular swimming buddies with whom you are comfortable swimming with.
Alana Wilson, PA-C
WMST President
