FAQs
Q: “Who can join your team?”
A: The Terrapins welcome those with experience in synchronized swimming as well as those who would like to give it a try. If you’re willing to learn, we’re willing to teach!
Q: "How competitive is your team?"
A: We compete against other club teams as well as varsity teams. Every year our scores improve and we aim even higher for the next year. The team currently has a good mix of swimmers with experience and those new to the sport, so there is a space for everyone!
Q: "How do you decide who swims in which routine?"
A: We have some girls on our team who have been competing for years, and others who are competing for the first time. At the beginning of the season there is a level testing to figure out who is best matched to swim together.
Q: “How expensive is synchro?”
A: Although swimmers are responsible for their suits and some costs for regular season meets, the school has been very generous in supporting our team. With their help, we are able to provide jackets, parkas, warm-up suits, and cover some of the traveling expenses associated with the larger meets. We always try to fundraise for the expenses not covered by the school. To learn more about how you can be a synchro sponsor, please contact Krissy. Also, the Terrapins are currently fundraising through Current. To make a purchase that will help our fundraising effort, go to http://www.currentfun.com, and begin shopping. When you check out, just select Virginia and UMW Terrapins. The team will receive 50% of your purchase price in their fundraising account.
Q: "How long is your season?"
A: Our season begins in September and runs through to Nationals in March.
Q: "Do you have a coach?"
A: Krissy Donahoe is the volunteer coach of the Terrapins. She graduated from Mary Washington in 2002 and is currently busy as a stay-at-home mom. Krissy previously coached the Middlesex Aqualytes and has coached Mary Washington since her junior year there. Krissy recently completed training and will soon be taking the test to become a Level III judge. She served as the athlete rep for collegiate synchro during her junior and senior years, and was the Mary Jo Ruggieri scholarship recipient for 2001.
Jill Jensen just completed her first year coaching the Terrapins, and was able to help the team greatly. A recent Mary Washington graduate, Jill began synchro in college and caught on quickly. She is currently a third grade teacher in Spotsylvania county, and we're so excited she decided to stay in Virginia!
