What is Gopher Swim School?
At Gopher Swim School, our mission is to foster a lifelong love for swimming in the Twin Cities community through exceptional swim programs for all ages and skill levels. With a focus on safety, individualized coaching, and skill development, we inspire confident swimmers who embrace personal growth and a healthy lifestyle. Join us as we dive into excellence and find your passion for swimming.
Making Waves at Gopher Swim School, One Stroke at a Time.
Why join a swimming program?
Swimming and water safety is an essential skill for kids and adults. Every day in the United States there is an average of 11 fatal drownings (CDC) and over 80% of those occurred with an adult present. One of the leading factors in preventing drowning is ability to swim, along with supervision and properly fitting lifejackets. At Gopher Swim School we strive to provide quality lessons to keep you and your children safe in and around water.
Where are the programs?
Jean K. Freeman Aquatic Center
- The closest parking to the building is the University Ave Parking Ramp or free street parking on University Ave (on Sundays only).
- There are locker rooms on site for you to use.
St. Paul Gym Pool
- Parking is available via metered parking in the St. Paul Gym lot, or street parking located around the gym. Any unmetered parking in the St. Paul Gym or surrounding lots is contract parking only.
- There are locker rooms on site for you to use, located straight ahead and down the stairs from the front desk.
What is advanced aquatics?
Advanced aquatics offers additional programs that challenge your swim skills above our swim lessons and keep you active! Programs include our Gray Ducks Swim Team, Triathlon Clinics, and Advanced Aquatics Swim Clinics
Who are the instructors?
Instructors are University of Minnesota Students that are certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED. The program features a variety of knowledgeable and responsible instructors who create the fun and excitement of our swim lessons.
What is the refund policy?
Click here for our refund policies.
Family Swim Day Rules and Policies
- Children under 12 must be within arms' reach of an adult at all times whether in or out of the pool.
- For any children 12-16 an adult must still be present in the pool area.
- No running
- No diving
- No spitting
- Toys such as the noodles, diving rings, and balls may be used during family swim.
- Only U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.
- No water wings/padded suits
- The use of kick boards, aqua belts, or pull buoys are not permitted
- No changing of children on deck.
- Proper swim attire is required.
- No hanging on the lane lines.
- All swimmers must shower before entering water.
- Children are not allowed in the sauna.
- The lifeguard has final authority in all safety matters.
- Water diapers are required for children who are not toilet trained or who have been toilet trained for six months or less.