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About Swim Clinics
the foundry's newest partnership
The Foundry has partnered with Coach André and Kimberly Morton of rhythmandstroke.com and will be providing coached swim lessons and safety testing at the Cleveland State University Natatorium location. Returning or Newly registered Foundry youth rowers and sailors may participate free of additional charges with a Swim Clinic Registration!
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 Test Form for those that are ready
Foundry’s required Swim Saftey 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 (locations my vary)
Cost: Free for registered Foundry youth rowers and sailors.
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
Orientation Zoom Call: Sunday, August 2nd at 7 PM (invite link to follow)
Session 4: Starts July 30th, 4 to 5 PM
*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 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 swim ability. That tells us what to focus on as they build toward the Swim Safety Test.
What the test requires
To pass the swim competency test required for rowing and sailing program entry, participants demonstrate the ability to:
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Swim 50 meters continuously
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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
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 at Your Local Pool: FAQ
Yes. If a CSU clinic session doesn't work for your family, your swimmer can complete the test at your local pool with a lifeguard or safety instructor on deck.
Call your pool ahead of time and ask to speak with the Aquatics Manager to schedule a time. Don't just show up. The staff need to know you're coming so a lifeguard or safety instructor is available to run and sign off on the test.
Two blank copies of the Swim Test Form. Bring both so you have a backup if one gets wet or marked up.
Yes. Your swimmer should be able to perform all the required skills on their own, with no assistance. The test isn't a lesson, it's a check that they're water-ready.
The lifeguard or safety instructor watching the test completes and signs the Certification section. That signature is what makes the form count.
Get the completed form back to the Foundry at least 10 days before your rowing or sailing program start date. You can:
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Email it to foundryadmin@clevelandfoundry.org
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Drop it at the front desk
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Mail it to Cleveland Foundry, 1831 Columbus Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113
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