Nike Swim Camp at Southern Illinois University
Average Rating Stars
2024 Dates & Prices Coming Soon!
Come join us this summer 2023 at the Nike Swim Camp at Southern Illinois University, located just two hours southeast of St. Louis, Missouri, near downtown Carbondale. Our staff is committed to helping competitive swimmers improve their stroke technique and to bring out the very best in every swimmer we coach. Our camp experience includes: stroke technique instruction, excellent facilities, healthy dining options and fun filled evening activities.
The Nike Swim Camp combines elite-level stroke technique instruction with a fantastic summer camp experience! From Giant City State Park to The Garden of the Gods at Shawnee National Forest the Southern Illinois region is absolutely gorgeous and a great location for camp!
Extra Night Starts & Turns Clinic:
You also have the option to add the Extra Night Starts & Turns Clinic to make your camp experience a 5 night, 6 day camp!
The Nike Swim Camp at Southern Illinois University is open to any and all entrants. For your safety and benefit, we recommend you have competitive swimming experience (e.g. U.S.S. age group, national qualifiers, high school swimmers, or summer league swimmers) and can swim at least 50 meters in all four competitive strokes: fly, back, breast and freestyle.
Highlights Include
- Stroke technique refinement for competitive swimming
- Optional Extra Night Starts & Turns Clinic Available
- Low camper to staff ratio
- Small group and individual stroke analysis/instruction
- Fun evening social activities
- Every camper receives a Nike Camp T-shirt and Nike Swim Cap
- Every camper is eligible to receive merit-based prizes during camp
- View More Details ⟩
Camp Coaches
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Camp Director Geoff Hanson
Geoff Hanson was named head coach for the swimming and diving program on May 22, 2019, taking over for 32-year coaching veteran Rick Walker.
View Geoff Hanson's Bio ⟩ -
Assistant Coach Ivan Sanchez
Ivan Sanchez enters his fifth season and second stint as an assistant coach for the Southern Illinois swimming and diving program. He previously swam for the Salukis from 2001-05 and served as a volunteer assistant coach from 2006-09.
View Ivan Sanchez's Bio ⟩ -
Assistant Coach Laura Carver
Laura Carver was named assistant coach for Saluki swimming & diving on Nov. 4, 2022.
View Laura Carver's Bio ⟩
Camp Details
SECURE YOUR SPOT!
You can expect a high demand on these first-come-first-serve camper spots, so please be sure to register early. This summer, SIU is offering two sessions of overnight with a day camp (9:00am-4:00pm) option. Campers will train each day in the Dr. Edward J. Shea Natatorium, a 10-lane, 50-meter indoor pool featuring two eight lane 25-yard courses. Overnight campers are housed comfortably on the SIU campus in air-conditioned dormitories.
2023 OVERVIEW
- Dates: June 11-15 & June 18-22
- Age Group: 9-18
- Gender: Coed
- Camp Type: Overnight, Day (commuter)
- Check-in: Check-in takes place between 1:00pm-2:00pm on Sunday (June 11th & June 18th) at Mae Smith Hall.
- Check-out: Check-out takes place at 11:00am on Thursday (June 15th & June 22nd) at Mae Smith Hall.
- Day Schedule: SUN 2PM-8:30PM, MON-WED 9AM-4PM, THURS 9AM-11AM **Times subject to change
- Meals: All meals are provided for Overnight campers. Lunch and dinner are provided for all Extended Day (commuter) campers.
- Program: The Stroke Technique program is designed to provide competitive swimmers with a better understanding of swimming fundamentals. Stroke refinement along with constructive feedback will be the focus of the camp and allows each participant to gain a greater knowledge of proper stroke mechanics and ways to improve themselves individually.
EXTRA NIGHT STARTS & TURNS CLINIC
Again in 2023 you also have the option to add the Extra Night Starts & Turns Clinic to make your camp experience a 5 night, 6 day camp! Price: $150
CAMP ADDRESS
Southern Illinois University
Mae Smith Hall
330 Neely Drive
Carbondale, IL 62901
Click Here for Directions
CAMP CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT
Check-in: Sunday, June 11th (Session 1) & Sunday, June 18th (Session 2)
- Check-in takes place between 1:00pm-2:00pm on Sunday at Mae Smith Hall.
Check-out: Thursday, June 15th (Session 1) & Thursday, June 22nd (Session 2)
- Check-out takes place at 11:00am on Thursday at Mae Smith Hall.
EXTRA NIGHT STAYOVER
The Starts & Turns Clinic begins on Thursday at 12:00pm and concludes on Friday at 11:00am. OVERNIGHT CAMPERS will check-out of Mae Smith Hall after the clinic concludes. DAY CAMPERS will attend the clinic from 12:00pm-4:00pm on Thursday and 9:00am-11:00am on Friday. All campers can still enroll in the Starts & Turns Clinic.
2023 HOUSING
- Dorm: Mae Smith Hall
- Number of Campers Per Room: 2 per room
- Roommates: Rooms are assigned by age & roommate requests. Roommate requests must be mutual and received no later than 14 days before the start of camp. If you don't have a roommate request, you will be placed in a room with someone near your age. It will be a great opportunity to meet someone new!
- Bathrooms: Shared
- Linens: Not included. Bring linens or sleeping bag, pillow, pillowcase, and a towel.
- Air Conditioning: YES - Dorm has A/C
SUPERVISION
The staff reside in the dormitories with the campers and participate in all activities. Drugs, alcohol and tobacco are strictly prohibited, and constitute, along with general misconduct, grounds for dismissal from camp without a refund.
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE FEE?
- Instruction: Morning, afternoon, and evening training sessions
- Overnight campers: Dormitory housing on campus and all meals are provided.
- Day campers: Dinner provided on Sunday; Lunch is provided Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
- Supervision: Staff members reside in campers’ quarters and participate in all activities.
- Camp T-shirt & Prizes: Campers at multi-day camps will receive a Nike Swim Camps t-shirt and prizes.
INSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT & FACILITY
- Ratio: 1:10 staff-to-camper ratio
- Groupings: Campers are grouped by age, ability, and experience.
- Equipment Needed: Please bring your water swimsuit, swim cap, googles and towel(s)
- Facility: Dr. Edward J. Shea Natatorium
- Medical Protocol: Most camps have an athletic trainer on-site to help with illness or injury. In case of an emergency, campers will be transported to the nearest hospital.
OPTIONAL ITEMS
Activities are an integral part of the total camp experience and we encourage campers to participate in them, although it is not mandatory. Activities and camp items can be purchased at check-in on Sunday.
- CAMP GROUP PHOTO: $10.00
- UNDERWATER VIDEO ON A FLASHDRIVE: $40.00
Prices subject to change. These activities and items are optional and may be purchased and paid for at camp check-in. Payment must be made by check and/or cash. Credit cards cannot be accepted at camp check-in.
PREPARE FOR CAMP: COMPLETE YOUR PRE-CAMP CHECKLIST
To view your customer account, complete your mandatory forms, pay balance dues, and review important camp information, visit Pre-Camp Checklist. All necessary camp information is on this page. If there are any imperative changes prior to camp start, registered campers will be notified via email and this webpage will be updated!
OVERNIGHT CAMPERS
Below is a suggested list of clothes, equipment, and personal items. US Sports Camps is NOT responsible for lost or stolen articles or money.
Checklist of things to bring:
- Weather appropriate clothing for 4 nights/5 days
- Dryland training Gear (running shoes, t-shirt, athletic shorts, sweatshirt)
- Backpack
- 2-3 Swimsuits
- Swim Cap(s)
- Goggles
- Towel
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat or Visor
- Sunglasses
- Sandals/flip flops
- Spending Money ($40-$50)
- Linens (twin sheets & blankets or sleeping bag, pillow, pillowcase)
- Pajamas
- Bath Towel
- Toiletries
- Snorkel (optional)
- No fan - dorm has AC
- Signed Heath & Release forms and waivers (forms completed online do not need to be printed and turned in at camp)
DAY CAMPERS
Checklist of Things to Bring: We recommend that all Day Campers bring a daily pack with the following items: swimsuit, swim cap, goggles, towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, sandals, water bottle, dry land gear (running shoes, t-shirt, athletic shorts, sweatshirt) and any other appropriate clothing for that day’s activities which will be described to you on the first day of camp.
Camp Schedule & Meals:
- Sunday: Day Campers should arrive dressed and ready to swim. You will be assigned a counselor and given a complete schedule of all events during the week. Day Campers stay until 8:30pm. Dinner is provided.
- Monday-Wednesday: Day Camper Hours – 9:00am-4:00pm. Lunch is provided.
- Thursday: Day Camper Hours - 9:00am-11:00am. Check-out is immediately after the camp concludes at 11:00am. Departure time may change depending on the event.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is not provided. Campers are responsible for getting to and from camp on their own. There is no supervision before or after camp hours so please make arrangements to pick up your child on time.
COMPANY POLICIES
For information regarding our cancellation policy and all other company policies, please visit USSC Policies.
NIKE SWIM CAMP FAQ
For general questions about our swim camps please see our FAQ page.
OVERNIGHT CAMP AMENITIES
• 4 nights lodging • All meals
• Optional Extra Night Starts & Turns Clinic
• Nightly recreational activities
• Nike Camp T-shirt & Nike Swim Cap
DAY CAMP AMENITIES
• Nike Camp T-shirt & Nike Swim Cap
• Camp Hours: SUN 2PM-8:30PM, MON-WED 9AM-4PM, THURS 9AM-11AM **Times subject to change
• Optional Starts & Turns Clinic Hours: THURS 12PM-9PM and FRIDAY 9AM-11AM **Times subject to change
EXTRA NIGHT STARTS & TURNS CLINIC
Again in 2023 you also have the option to add the Extra Night Starts & Turns Clinic to make your camp experience a 5 night, 6 day camp! Price: $150
Discounts Available
TEAM DISCOUNT: If five or more campers register together, each camper is eligible for a $25 discount. Please have a team contact reach out directly to the USSC office at 1-800-645-3226 to receive a discount code to identify your group. Campers may then register through the website at their convenience and apply the coupon code during check-out.
Sample Daily Schedule
- 7:30 am Breakfast (overnighters)
- 8:50 am Extended Day Campers arrive, stretch
- 9:00 am Morning Pool Session
- 10:00 am Videotaping
- Noon Lunch
- 1:00 pm Classroom Session
- 2:00 pm Afternoon Pool Session/Video Review
- 5:30 pm Dinner
- 6:30 pm Evening Session/Activity
- 9:00 pm Extended Day Campers depart
- 10:00 pm Lights out!
Dr. Edward J. Shea Natatorium
The Olympic-sized pool, features a 10-lane, 50-meter long course, and two eight-lane, 25-yard short courses. The pool is also equipped with the latest in aquatic technology including underwater speakers and three viewing windows to record and analyze the athlete's underwater stroke performance.
Camp Questions & Answers
How will my swimmer be grouped at camp?
Upon arrival at Southern Illinois, campers are placed in groups with other swimmers having similar abilities and goals. Our camp staff will do their best to accommodate your needs, keeping in consideration your experience and desire to improve.
Camp Reviews
Overall Average Rating Stars
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Fun and challenging!
— Anonymous
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Very impressed!
June 30, 2015: My nine year old attended the Nike Swim Camp at Southern Illinois University. She learned a ton and had an AMAZING time! She will most definitely be returning next year!! I was highly impressed with the coach, the staff, and the camp overall! The DVD was awesome. The coach was incredibly knowledgeable and EXCELLENT with the kids. The camp GREATLY exceeded my expectations!
— Chris M. Parent
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Super Staff
June 21, 2013: Both of my children really enjoyed the camp. The staff was terrific at teaching them as well as in their supervision and handling of the kids.
— John A. Parent
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First Time Success
June 21, 2013: My daughter really loved the camp and this was a first time for her. Many thanks and she will come back next year. She had fun (very important) and her technique and interest increased greatly.
— Amber G. Parent
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We will be back!
June 28, 2014: As a parent of a preteen, I was a bit anxious the first time my daughter attended the Nike Camp. It was several hours away from home. Every time I would talk to her, she was so excited about advise she had been given, and how her strokes had been changing due to this. My daughter begins planning "next year" as soon as camp is over! I feel like this is an important step in getting my daughter to that "next level" of competitive swimming. The staff were wonderful, and very welcoming, and willing to listen to any concerns, comments etc. My daughter loved the social times, planned activities and said the food was incredible. Keep up the good work Nike and SIU. We will be back!!
— Vince C. Parent
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Great camp!
June 28, 2014: I would definitely send my son again. He received excellent tips/training and had a wonderful time. It was worth every penny!
— Tom R. Parent
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Improve your technique.
July 1, 2014: My daughter has been on a swim team for one year. She was looking to improve in all strokes. She loves the video of her technique and views it often as a reminder of how to improve her strokes. Her swim coach noticed an improvement in all of her strokes immediately after returning home from camp.
— Stacie F. Parent
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Wonderful experience!
June 27, 2015: This was the most wonderful experience that I ever had, I can't wait to go back next year.
— Kristy H. Southern Illinois Overnight Camper '15
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Very impressed!
June 27, 2015: My daughter received a lot of one to one attention, and was excited to come home and show others what changes she had made in her strokes. She loved the planned activities with the group, and of course the social times are very important to this age group! As a parent, I was very impressed with the video of her swimming, and am encouraging her to watch it again and remember the advise that was given on it.
— Tyler K. Parent
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Absolutely loves it!
June 27, 2015: My son has attended Nike Swim Camp at SIU for 4 years. He absolutely loves it! My son is not the top swimmer, nor is he the bottom swimmer on his team. He is just a kid who loves the water and loves the sport of swimming. He looks forward every year to camp, and always returns having learned or improved on something. I asked him after this year's camp if he wanted to try a camp somewhere else, and he said "NO WAY!!!" As a parent I have always felt that my swimmer is in a very safe place and is gaining a wonderful experience. We will be back!
— Joseph C. Parent
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Can't wait for next year!
June 28, 2015: My 9 year old attended her first Nike Swim camp this year at SIU Carbondale. She had a blast and can't wait for next year. She made many new friends and is still keeping in contact with them. The training was good but the camp setting and extra activities out of the pool was also a fun experience for her. She did make a regional time this year. As a parent I am extremely happy with the experience and the coaches were excellent and knowledgeable. Coach Rick and Jeff went out of their way to answer any questions and assist parents with their children and swimming. The staff was also knowledgeable regarding local attractions and places parents can visit if staying in the area during the week.
— Veronica E. Parent
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Great experience!
June 29, 2015: Great experience. My son could not wait to get there each morning. We will definitely be attending next year!
— Amanda A. Parent
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had a great time at camp!
July 30, 2019: My son had a great time at camp and regretted choosing to not stay for the stroke and turn camp. The instructors were knowledgeable and gave good workouts. Overall, a fantastic camp.
— Jean M. Parent
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Highly recommend!
June 28, 2016: I would highly recommend SIU Nike Swim Camp. The camp was very well organized. My daughter recevied instruction to help her improve her stroke technique. The coaches and counselors were very motivational.
— Terry M. Parent
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Great experience!
June 28, 2016: I was nervous about sending my son away to swim camp. Boy - was I wrong. He had a great time training, staying in the dorms, and enjoyed various group evening activities. He really was impressed with Coach Rick and the counselors. He had a great experience, and looks forward to next year.
— James R. Parent
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Very happy!
June 29, 2016: Our child came home very happy and raved about the quality of the camp and the coaches enthusiasm. He will definitely attend another camp.
— Kristin M. Parent
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Highly Recommend!
June 30, 2016: Four consecutive years (the camps my daughter has attended), Coach Rick and his staff have conducted a wonderful camp in Carbondale, IL. They create a respectful, fun and educational environment that all level of swimmers can benefit from. I highly recommend their camp.
— James P. Parent
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Great experience!
June 27, 2017: My son appreciated that the coaches were able to give him individual attention and good advice on how to improve his strokes. Thanks for making his first swim camp experience so special!
— Naomi M. Parent
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Great Week!
June 27, 2017: My daughter had so much fun and swimming with others her age and ability. She cannot stop talking about the camp. Thanks for a great week!
— Monica F. Parent
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Fun camp!
June 27, 2017: My son was very happy about how much time was spent practicing technique. He seemed very confident in the changes he made in his strokes. He also enjoyed the horseback riding and bowling outings.
— Larry K. Parent
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Loved camp!
June 28, 2017: Absolutely LOVED the dance warm-ups. Favorite time was bowling and free time spent getting to know other campers and the counselors. My daughter has talked a lot about Coach Rick's motivational discussions and the nutrition training. She attended the Mizzou starts and turns clinic last year, at age 12. She definitely enjoyed the technique instruction and the overall camp environment at SIU.
— Alice S. Parent
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Great Counselors!
June 22, 2018: The camp counselors were great! I liked that they worked hard, but were able to engage in fun activities in the evening. It was well organized and well ran. We will be returning in the years to come.
— Patrick B., Parent
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Can't Wait To Go Back!
July 23, 2019: I had a great time! They kept me busy the whole time and I learned some new skills that will help me in the future. I already can't wait to go back next year!
— Mackenzie E. Camper
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loved everything about camp!
July 27, 2019: My son LOVED everything about the camp! He loved his time in the pool. He loved the coaches and their feedback. He loved the hanging out time. He was really happy at this camp and with his experience overall!
— Jose R. Parent
Nike Swim Camp at Southern Illinois University
/media/images/swim/nike/facilities/Southern-Illinois-University-Pool-Facility-Nike-Swim-Camp.jpgCarbondale, Illinois 62901-6620
SECURE YOUR SPOT – CAMPS SELL OUT!
Last year over 650 Sports Camps sold out, leaving 7,000+ campers on the waitlist. Due to high demand, early registration for our first-come-first-serve camps is strongly recommended.
Camp Dates & Prices
This program has concluded for the season.
Please Join our Priority List to be notified when this program is available for registration.
