About Swim Clinics
the foundry's newest partnership
The Foundry has partnered with Coach André of rhythmandstroke.com and will be providing coached swim lessons and safety testing at the Cleveland State University Natatorium location. New Foundry students that sign up for the Rhythm and Stroke Aquatics program must also complete their Swim Testing with Rhythm and Stroke.
foundry swim readiness program
If you're currently registered or considering registration for our Fall and/or Winter 2026/2027 seasons, we encourage you to take advantage of The Foundry's Swim Readiness Program. This program is a rolling pre-requisite for all Foundry Rowing and Sailing Seasonal Youth Program registrations, making sure every young athlete is water-safe and confident before getting out on the water.
Throughout the fall of 2026, swim lessons and testing are available at no cost. Simply sign up your child to participate. Getting certified early means one less step when your season begins, so we encourage families to register as soon as possible.
CLINIC STRUCTURE
90 Minutes: Water session with coached swim lessons
30 Minutes: Three safety drills needed for completion of the Foundry's required Swim Safety Test for those that are ready
Foundry’s required Swim Safety Test for those that are ready. All participants must attend the 90-minute water session period prior to testing.
important information
Location: Cleveland State University Natatorium
Cost: Currently free.
What to Bring: Swimsuit and towel (swim cap and swim shirt will be provided).
Facilities: Locker rooms are available.
Registration Deadline: Two days prior to date.
Capacity: Swim Clinic registrations will be accepted until capacities are reached.
Know Before You Go & Parking: Check your email
Learn More: Next Orientation Zoom Call
Testing: Consistent time in the water during the expertly coached lessons builds confidence through progressive skill development. Instruction focuses on endurance, efficiency, and consistency, ensuring participants can perform self-rescue skills confidently under testing conditions.
*Note: These group swim clinics are not suitable for those with injuries, extreme conditions, physical or cognitive limitations. For questions, please contact aquatics@clevelandfoundry.org
How Swim Readiness Works
How it works
The program follows a clear pathway:
Enrollment → Assessment → Instruction → Swim Safety Test → Program Placement
Every step is built to get participants prepared, confident, and water-safe before they advance.
What we assess
When your swimmer starts, we look at where they are with water entry and exit, treading, life jacket use, and foundational self-rescue / swim ability.
What the test requires
To pass the safety swim test required for rowing and sailing program entry, participants demonstrate the ability to:
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Swim 50 meters continuously (any stroke)
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Tread water for 5 minutes without a PFD
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Put on and securely fasten a life jacket while treading
If your child can perform these required safety skills on their own, with no assistance, you may contact Rhythm and Stroke at 216.309.2782 to set up your testing appointment directly
fall 2026 session
Swim sessions typically will occur at The Cleveland State University Natatorium but locations may vary. Free parking; a pass is sent weekly by text or email before each session.
*Note: The four waivers below are required forms that must be completed before attending a swim clinic.
required forms
Have you completed all your required forms for the upcoming swim clinic?
Click each of the four waiver icons below to complete your required forms. All forms must be submitted to finalize your Swim Clinic Sign Up!
Swim Safety Test FAQ
Effective July 31st, all new student sign-ups must be tested with the Foundry's Aquatics Partner, Rhythm and Stroke.
Once your testing appointment is confirmed, drivers be sure to bring the parking pass! For your student, pack a swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, and maybe a drink or snack in a duffle bag with your child's last name on it. Locker rooms are available. Make sure to avoid leaving things behind!
Yes, the parent/guardian needs to arrive and ready their child 15 minutes prior to the lesson start time and remain on deck during each lesson and test.
Lessons are at the Cleveland State University Natatorium.
Check your sign up email for FREE PARKING instructions!
Please use the next swim date link above to Sign Up and complete all linked forms. You will receive and email from aquatics@clevelandfoundry.org confirming your session start date.
The best time to start is the beginning of the season before your registration date. Please reference the rolling session chart.
Lessons run for 10–12 week sessions. Consistent attendance for your child matters, parents / guardians are asked to please remain on deck pool side during the lesson
Lessons currently are free with a completed registration
You're ready to be tested if you can swim 50 meters continuously, tread water for 5 minutes without a PFD, and put on and securely fasten a life jacket while treading unassisted.
To inquire about a Swim Test appointment for your child, please call 216.309.2782.
All new students must complete their safety swim test requirements with Rhythm and Stroke.
Once you child passes the safety Swim Test, Rhythm and Stroke will verify the testing by signing and returning the form to the Cleveland Foundry. Once received the Foundry will email the registering parent a copy of their students completed Swim Test. You will want to keep safe the Swim Test copy for all future rowing and sailing your student may encounter in the future!
