Greetings!

U.S. Masters Swimming is closely following updates regarding COVID-19 (also called the coronavirus) and will continue to operate as usual, which includes the sanctioning and hosting of events. USMS will abide by the recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health officials to ensure the safety of athletes, coaches, volunteers, fans, and staff at our events.

USMS recommends that all clubs, workout groups, and event directors refer to the CDC and other local health officials for updates on COVID-19 in their area, and also recommends that all clubs, workout groups, and event directors promote prevention best practices and consider taking additional measures, including having hand sanitizer readily available and performing extra disinfection of areas of possible transmission (e.g., restrooms, showers, doors). In order to best support our members at this time, USMS encourages event directors to have flexible refund policies.

USMS encourages all swimmers to adhere to best health practices and follow local health officials for updates, and discourages swimmers or fans who are sick from attending workouts or events.

We’re continuing to move forward with our planning for the 2020 USMS Spring National Championship in San Antonio. We’re working closely with our hosts, Northside ISD Aquatics and San Antonio Sports, to ensure a safe and enjoyable event. Participants who do not wish to compete will have until March 30 to request a full refund by contacting events@usmastersswimming.org. (Here is the CDC's guidance for travelers.)

USMS is also continuing to prepare for the 2020 FINIS College Club Swimming National Championship in North Carolina, working closely with the meet host and the Greensboro Aquatic Center.

We’ll continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak diligently and provide updates and information to our members through email communications as they become available. We thank you in advance for taking every precaution to protect yourself and others.

Note: This email was sent to national- and local-level volunteers, club contacts, designated coaches, and event directors.