Welcome to the Evergreen Dolphins Swim Team Buddy Program!

We’re so excited for another summer of swimming, cheering, and making memories together. Our Dolphin Buddy Program is all about bringing our team closer and making sure everyone—no matter how new or experienced — feels like they belong. This is where the fun happens!

What is the Dolphin Buddy Program?

Every swimmer gets matched up: older swimmers team up with younger ones as “Dolphin Buddies.” Buddies hang out at the pool, help each other get ready for races, and, most importantly, cheer each other on! Older swimmers can show the ropes, while younger swimmers get a friend to look up to. You’ll see your buddy at practices, meets, and even special events just for buddy pairs.

What’s In This Packet?

We have new leaders for our Summer Swim Program—and some fresh ideas for Dolphin Buddies, too! Inside this packet you will find the Buddy Calendar and the list of Buddy pairs. We’re focusing on spending real time with our buddies this year.
There are tons of ways to connect. You don’t have to do it all, but we encourage every buddy pair to pick the activities that sound most fun and make them your own.

How to Be an Epic Buddy This Swim Season

Being a swim team buddy isn’t about wearing matching goggles—it’s about making new friends, cheering each other on, and making every meet feel like the best pool party of the summer. Here’s how to level up your buddy game, whether you’re a parent, a Big Buddy, or a Little Buddy.

Parents: The Secret Sauce

• First things first—don’t be shy! Reach out to your fellow buddy parent with a quick text or call. A simple “Hey, our kids are swim buddies!” goes a long way. It makes it way easier to keep the kids connected, especially if someone’s new to the summer swim scene. And who knows? You might even answer a question or two that saves another parent’s sanity.
• We keep it simple—one gift exchange per year. This year that will be at the first HOME meet, the Intrasquad Meet on JUNE 6. Think snacks, favorite drinks, or tiny treats, not anything fancy. It’s all about the fun and the friendships.
• If your child’s buddy can’t make a meet, don’t stress! Just let the Buddy Coordinator know. We’ll make sure every kid has someone to hang out with, because nobody should miss out on the fun. And if you’re ever lost or confused at a home meet, swing by the Buddy Table—we’ll help your swimmer find their buddy and know exactly when it’s their time to shine.

Big Buddies: You’re the Role Model

• You’re basically a swim team legend to your Little Buddy, so kick things off by introducing yourself. Share your story—how long you’ve been swimming, what makes summer swim awesome, maybe even your favorite post-practice snack. Ask your Little Buddy about their hobbies, what they love about swimming, or even what superpower they’d pick if they could have one.
• At meets, track down your Little Buddy and find out which races they’re swimming. When it’s go-time, cheer like you’re their #1 fan. And after their races, don’t forget a high-five or some words of encouragement. If your buddy gets turned around trying to find their parents, help them out—you’re their swim meet superhero.

Little Buddies: You’re the Heart of the Team

• Your Big Buddy is here to make swim season extra awesome, so don’t be afraid to find them before a meet and let them know what races you’re swimming. Want bonus points? Ask when they’re swimming so you can return the favor and cheer them on from the deck. 
• See your Big Buddy at practice or around the pool? Give them a wave or say hi. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference.

Let’s Make This Summer Unforgettable!

Your buddy can be your teammate, cheerleader, and maybe even a new friend for life. We can’t wait to see all the smiles, encouragement, and laughter at the pool this summer. If you have fun ideas or questions, reach out anytime! Jhena Sword, our Dolphin Buddy Coordinator, can be reached at 213-840-4927 or [email protected]. At home meets, you can find Jhena at the Dolphin Buddy table. Don’t hesitate to reach out via phone, text, or in person any time this season.

Get ready to be an AMAZING Dolphin Buddy—let’s have the most fun summer yet!

2026 Dolphin Buddies Calendar