At the beginning of the season, each swimmer will be given a leather string 18-20 inches long.  Beads of different color significance will be given throughout the season to attach to the string. 

 BLUE: Attendance

       8 &under: one for each practice they attend
       9&10: one for each practice they attend
       11&12: one: 2 practices, two: 4 practices, 3 for 5 practices
       13 & over: 1 for coming all week

GREEN: Meet participation
       8 &under: one for each event they swim
       9& up: one for each meet they compete 

                     EVERYONE:

WHITE: personal best time
RED: "BB" time obtained
PURPLE: "B" time obtained
YELLOW: "A" time obtained
ORANGE: "AA" time obtained
PINK: "AAA" time obtained
COPPER/BRONZE: Quad "A" obtained
SILVER: Top 16 time
GOLD: team record 

BLACK: Given at the Coach's discretion for the following:
       great practice
       working hard
       learning a particular skill (turn, correct breathing, dive, stroke, etc.)