Welcome to VanIsle Masters Artistic Swimming!
Congratulations to our Competitive Team for placing gold at the Fryslan Open. Well deserved!
We are a fun minded group of adults who value community, inclusivity, and a love for Artistic Swimming. Don’t yet have a love for Artistic Swimming? No worries, we’ll make sure that you do!
Whether you’re a “dip your toes in” or “jump into the deep end” type of swimmer, we have a place for you. This club was founded on a genuine love for the sport with the intention of providing an affordable, safe and enjoyable place for all. We strive to make this sport accessible to every adult, whether you’re a beginner or national level competitor.
Our team serves a substantial part of Vancouver Island, having had members commuting from all the way from Errington and as far away as Saanich to swim with us. We also host an additional competitive team in Victoria, where several of our athletes reside. Most members, however, are from Nanaimo BC where our club is based.
Now that we have your attention, you probably have some questions. Please see our FAQ below! You might also want to read some of our swimmer’s testimonials!
Cheers,
The Members of VanIsle Masters Artistic Swimming.
FAQ’s
What is Artistic Swimming?
Artistic Swimming is the new official term for what was previously known as Synchronized Swimming. An Olympic sport since 1984, it’s a hybrid of swimming, dancing and gymnastics. It consists of swimmers performing routines that are synchronized with music in the water, occurring either in a solo, duet or team format. Search for it on YouTube and you’ll be amazed at what you see!
Do I need to have experience as an Artistic (Synchronized) Swimmer to join the team?
Nope! Don’t let the word “masters” in the title fool you. Masters refers to the club being for adults; it does not mean the club is only for those who have “mastered” the sport. We have teams designed for every experience level. We can accommodate beginners, those who’ve aged out of other clubs, and those who are coming back to the sport they loved in an earlier part of their life!
Note: Although Artistic Swimming experience isn’t required, individuals must be able to swim at least 50 meters (2 laps) in the pool without stopping.
Do you offer programs for every experience level?
Yes we do! You can choose the commitment level that is right for you. Check out our programs here.
What age of swimmer does your club serve?
Being that we’re a masters group, we welcome all adults over 18 years of age.
Isn’t Artistic Swimming a female only sport?
NO! Our club welcomes everyone with open arms. Artistic Swimming across the world has changed. As the popularity of the sport rises, many countries have developed the training and recruitment of mens, mixed, and gender fluid teams. The VanIsle Masters are a community based club that’s inclusive of all gender expressions or identities.
Do I have to be a strong swimmer to try this sport?
Absolutely not! (can you believe it?) We have a wonderful coaching staff to support a variety of skill levels. Our club includes a program for beginner swimmers who already have basic water skills. This program allows beginners to gain water confidence, while learning how to technically execute basic swimming strokes. Most importantly, it also works on building the core blocks of Artistic Swimming. Check out C.’s story on our Testimonials page!
Note: Although Artistic Swimming experience isn’t required, individuals must be able to swim at least 50 meters (2 laps) in the pool without stopping.
What kind of equipment is needed?
Great question!!! You will need a bathing suit, swim goggles, and a nose clip. Competitive swimmers may need additional team suits for competition purposes. Other extras like swim parkas, bags, etc. are available to our beginner and intermediate athletes, but not required, so the sport stays affordable.
I really want to try this program but I’m not sure I can commit to a year of artistic swimming. Is there a way to accommodate this?
WELL, we have “see it – try it” events in the year which are wonderful opportunities to get in the pool and have fun!
Are there policies in place to protect the health and safety of VMAS athletes?
The VanIsle Masters adheres to all provincial, municipal, and BC Artistic Swimming guidelines. These guidelines are frequently updated by the PHO through viaSport and BCAS. Please contact us for additional details regarding this plan and what the pool time will look like this season.
I’m interested! How do I register?
Contact us and we will get back to you shortly. Thank you for considering swimming with us and be prepared to have a great time!
Board of Directors
- Donna: President – vanislemasters@gmail.com
- Carol (1): Treasurer – vanislemasters@gmail.com
- Carla: Secretary – vanislemasters@gmail.com
- Carol (2): Vice President – vanislemasters@gmail.com
- April: Board Member – vanislemasters@gmail.com
- Megan: Board Member – vanislemasters@gmail.com
- Charlotte: Board Member – vanislemasters@gmail.com