The Nevada Desert Mermaids train and learn skills according to standards set by USA Artistic Swimming. Learn more about the program here: https://www.usaartisticswim.org/athlete-development
 
What to pack and wear:
 
Morning session in the water:
  • Black swimsuit (brand logo is allowed, color or illustration is not)
  • White cap (brand logo is allowed,no team logo or illustration)
  • Goggles for swim test and figures test
  • Nose clip for routine and figures tests
  • 2 towels
  • Parka if you have one
  • Water bottle
  • No jewelry allowed (studs earrings are acceptable)
  • No fake tattoo, drawing on body (swimmers will get their draw number on each
  • shoulder)
Afternoon session at another location:
  • Yoga mat
  • Water bottle
  • Black swimsuit or black sport bra
  • Black shorts
  • Hair pulled back ( braids are preferable)
What to expect:
  • Please be on deck 15 minutes before your child’s warm-up time
  • Make sure to go to the registration table (scoring) to confirm your attendance and get your shoulders marked
  • Parents are allowed on deck and encouraged to cheer and/or volunteer
  • Parents should not coach their kids or be in the judges’ way
  • Athletes can go to lunch when they have tested swimming, routine and figures.
  • Must be dismissed by a coach
  • Don’t forget to come to the afternoon land tests session
 
USA Artistic Swimming uses a framework similar to other sports' Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) models, such as the USA Swimming American Development Model (ADM), to guide athletic and personal growth from beginner to elite levels. This program focuses on four key athlete-centered outcomes: competence, confidence, connection, and character, ensuring positive experiences and engagement in the sport. It emphasizes developmentally appropriate training, multisport participation, physical literacy, and lifelong enjoyment of sport for athletes of all abilities.
 
LTAD testing typically occurs in November for all swimmers except for Sharks & Mermaids and a select few of our newest Recreational swimmers, who require further training. An additional testing day may take place in the Spring for swimmers who joined late or display significant process, typically at the beginner/younger stages of training. 
 
These skills will be used as part of the criteria for team placement during the competitive season.
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1 and 2 to participate at the National Junior Olympic Championships
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2 and 3 to participate at the 12&U National Invitational
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 to compete at the U.S. Youth National Championships
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 to compete at the U.S. Junior National Championships
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 to compete at the U.S. National Championships
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 to participate in Youth Age Group National Team Trials
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 to participate in Junior National Team Trials
  • All athletes must pass Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 to participate in Senior National Team Trials
The following levels must be passed to compete on the corresponding team:
  • Intermediates I: level 2
  • Intermediates II: level 3
  • 12U: level 3
  • 13-15: level 5
  • Youth: level 5
  • Juniors: level 5

To read more about each LTAD level, click on the link below:

To view your swimmer's current grade level, click here.