New Season, New Opportunities - something for the kids...and the coaches

New Season, New Opportunities
What happens when a new season starts? New coach? New friends? New time? New Lanes? New workouts? New age group? You can’t control these things. So, what can you control? What about a new YOU?
With new seasons come new opportunities. So, the real question you should be asking is, “What do I want this season?”
Take the time to think about what you really want as a swimmer. This new season is a new chance to accomplish your goals. Take advantage of it. If you couldn’t get that J.O. cut last season, do it this season. If you couldn’t clean up that butterfly like you planned, do it this season. Set your new goals early and make sure they are BIG. Nothing great was ever accomplished by thinking small.
Write down your top 3 goals for this season. Having trouble…Just think about WHAT YOU REALLY WANT….and write it down.
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2.
3.
How do we accomplish our goals? Well, the first part is done. You have thought about what you want and you wrote it down. Now, get to practice and make it happen. Most age group goals are performance based. That means everything you want can be worked for AT PRACTICE. That is the key…Understanding that practice performance is directly connected to meet performance. Work hard to improve your strokes at practice-see better technique at swim meets. Work hard to push yourself past your comfort zone at practice-see your endurance and speed improve at swim meets. Work hard to do the things your coach asks of you at practice-see your confidence go up and your times go down at swim meets. In many cases it is that simple.
This is just the beginning. So, enjoy each practice and every swim meet regardless of the outcome. If things don’t go your way, identify your mistakes and learn from them.
I’ll see you out there.
Coach Bryan

"What do you like about swimming?"

Suggested Reading: 365 Ways To Raise Confident Kids

At the clinic I had mentioned a great book but couldn't remember the name. Here it is: 365 Ways To Raise Confident Kids. By Sheila Ellison & Barbara Ann Barnett "Offers imaginative ways to raise healthy, happy families.". "A great source for parents and educators. The book helps children build character and promote positive self-esteem. The ideas, activities and suggestions are invaluable.". Most of the ideas in the book can easily be translated into coaching opportunities. Check it out!

Thanks For the Support at ASCA World Clinic 2010

I would like to take the time to thank all of the amazing coaches that attended the clinic last week. I was lucky enough to share ideas with some great coaches out there and I am confident that I left a much better coach because of it. The purpose behind these clinics is not only to hear what some of the best coaches in the world are doing but to network with the thousands of other coaches that are passionate about developing young athletes. I encourage all of you to continue to comment and share your ideas here on this blog site or create your own. Keep up the communication! Thanks!