US Masters Swimming Membership required. SawtoothMasters (SAWS) swim club holds membership in United States Masters Swimming (USMS), a national organization that provides organized workouts, competitions, clinics and workshops for adults aged 18 and over. USMS is administered locally by 53 Local Masters Swim Committees (LMSCs) located in 9 geographic zones across the US. Prospective members and cl
ubs join USMS through their LMSC. SAWS is one of four registered clubs within the Snake River LMSC. SAWS is in the Northwest Zone. A membership in SAWS is a membership in USMS, and allows individuals to compete in USMS sanctioned events. The Treasure Valley Family YMCA (the Y)supports SAWS by encouraging individual health and well-being through swimming. Participation in scheduled workouts requires membership in the Y, or payment for individual sessions. The Y provides a coach for the scheduled sessions. The Y sponsors its own competitions, and co-hosts USMS sanctioned competitive events with SAWS, offering use of their outstanding facilities. Swimming with SAWS in a structured, coached workout with others provides the greatest benefit. As an individual, you may choose to join SAWS and enjoy the camaraderie and structure of the group or you may choose to remain unattached. Unattached swimmers attending scheduled coached sessions at the Y enjoy all of the benefits of USMS membership, except they cannot compete in USMS sanctioned competitions. The motivation and instruction a coach provides is a powerful advantage. Our workouts emphasize group interval training, which has innumerable benefits over simple lap swimming. The friendly faces and camaraderie is an incentive to get you in the pool, avoiding skipped workouts. SAWS is a diverse group of individuals including National Record Holders, triathletes, and recreational swimmers. A friendly competitive atmosphere at all levels encourages personal improvement. Ultimately, you are in charge of your own program, and SAWS will help you succeed!