What does GDSA mean in SWIMMING

Greater Dayton Swimming Association (GDSSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering youth swimming and supporting the swimmers and their families in the communities of Dayton, Ohio. Our mission is to promote life-long fitness, sportsmanship, education, and safety through competitive swimming.

To become a member of GDSSA you must register your swimmer on our website. We have a one-time registration fee that covers USA Swimming Membership and GDSSA Team Membership. The registration process includes information about your swimmer, payment information, as well as Electronic Code of Conduct forms for both swimmer and parent/guardian to sign off on.

Each swimmer participating in GDSSA should have an appropriately fitting suit, cap, goggles and other necessary training tools such as fins, kickboards, paddles etc. A team warm up suit may be purchased during the season but is not required.

Yes! Our program works with swimmers between the ages of 5 –19 years old. All swimmers will be placed into practice groups according to their age and ability level so they can get the most out of each practice session while receiving specialized instruction from our coaches.

Our program focuses on proper stroke technique development as well as training in all competitive strokes year round with emphasis on developing endurance, speed and strength in preparation for competition events offered throughout the season. We also offer mental coaching sessions throughout the year to help build confidence among our swimmers for success in pool competitions or other goals outside of swimming endeavors!

Parents are always welcome at practice but unless otherwise advised by one of our coaches should remain either outside at poolside or in designated spectator areas around the pool deck so coaches can better work with their swimmers without distraction from others who may be watching.