Happy December, OBST families!

As we wrap up our Fall 2025 season, I just want to extend my gratitude for each and every one of you. I say it often because it is so true; Without supportive parents and dedicated athletes, OBST wouldn't exist. I thank you for your continuous outpouring of love, sportsmanship, and community.

As of this morning, registration for Winter/Spring 2026 is now OPEN for returning athletes and Orange Beach residents. Please take the appropriate action and note the revised handbook as well. Registration will open to the public next week on Monday.

There is a lot going on locally this week to celebrate the holiday season, but please make your best effort to make it to practice! Especially if you are swimming in AUB this weekend. I will try to be mindful of the time on Tuesday in regards to the City of Orange Beach's tree lighting and drone show.

I encourage all athletes to check their mailbox as I delivered a lot of ribbons from various meets this morning!

We will have our last practice of the season on Friday, Dec 12th. I really just wanted everyone to spend time together, have some hot chocolate, and exchange our Secret Santa gifts. So, swimsuits are completely optional as I will not require in-water activity then.

A final reminder that those renewing or establishing their USA Swimming membership for 2026 are available to do so if not already. Current memberships will expire at the end of the year. Being a member of USAS will allow you to enter USAS-sanctioned competitions (non-rec league meets), provide additional liability insurance for your athletes at meets, receive a subscription to the sport's SPLASH magazine and other additional benefits.

You will login on the USAS website and start the registration process here for the upcoming swim year 9/01/25-08/31/2026:https://omr.usaswimming.org/omr/welcome/B76C5D99FAD541

Please continue reading the below content for this month's happenings, reminders, and general information.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
12/2 Xander Beal (18)
12/29 Stella Dorland (8)

IMPORTANT DATES
MON 12/1: REGISTRATION OPENS FOR WINTER/SPRING 2026 SEASON
In order to register, click here: https://orangebeach.activityreg.com/selectActivity

Please note changes in the handbook regarding required equipment per group, attendance policy, and other revisions.

You have the entire month to register as long as space is available. The registration window will close on Wednesday, 12/31.

FRI 12/5 - SUN 12/7: CHRISTMAS IN AUBURN SWIM MEET
Please see the meet invitation attached for event layout. Typically AUB's head coach sends out the timeline and heat sheet together on the Wednesday before a meet, so be on the lookout for that information.

FYI: I plan to attend the Christmas tree lighting in Opelika on Saturday evening and thought it might be fun to go together as a team. We will establish a plan after prelims on Saturday.

MON 12/8: NO PRACTICE (for those who attended Auburn)!

FRI 12/12: Last Day of Practice & Holiday Send-Off
Friday, December 12th is the last day of practice for the season! To honor our team and celebrate the holidays, I would love to have a joint practice with ALL groups that early evening from 4-5:30 p.m. There will be hot chocolate and treats!

I'd like to organize a "Secret Santa" gift exchange. If your swimmer would like to participate, please RSVP to the Last Practice & Holiday Send-Off event in the sign-up calendar in SwimTopia by Monday, 12/8. This will confirm your participation!

Once participants are gathered I will inform each swimmer who they have for Secret Santa. Please remain under $25.00 in spending limit.

LOOKING AHEAD...
12/31 Registration for OBST Winter/Spring 2026 Closes
1/6 OBST Winter/Spring 2026 Begins
1/16-1/18 GPAC Winter Invitational

SWIM & TELL

The Search Remains Open for an Assistant Swim Coach!