Swimmers and Parents,
Are you ready?
The blog hasn't been kept very current lately, and I've had to answer the "why are you in Walnut Creek" question 'a few' times over the last couple weeks, so I'm going to start this post with that situation. Yes, I am still very much enrolled in school at Sac State. I'm making great progress towards my degree, and excited to be done. I have class Tuesday and Thursday that ends at 2:45. I'll be in my car and on deck at the pool as fast as I can those two days, but what that's most likely going to mean is that I won't be a part of the 8 and under workout a couple of days a week. I moved back to Walnut Creek about a month ago to be closer to friends and family... and no offense to Sacramento, but this is home. I'm a very happy camper. I wasn't supposed to be on deck at Livorna until mid-May, so I'm really excited to be able to help contribute before then.
Between moving, coaching spring clinic, five classes, etc... It's been a busy few weeks. I'm motivated to keep this updated this summer, so now that I'm settled... expect more posts.
I want to start this season with a Frequently Asked Questions section... we have a ton of new families! If you see someone on deck that you don't know, please go introduce yourself and offer your 'swim team expert' help. Remember your first year of swim team? It can be a little overwhelming...
Q.How many days a week should my swimmer be at practice?
A. As many as they can. School comes first, but if your schedule otherwise allows please come to as many practices as you can. Swimming is a lot like math; if you miss part of the process to solve the equation (or in our case - learn the stroke), it can be tough to get it all right in the end. We start with the basics and work our way up. The more you're there, the better chance you have of improving. Practice makes perfect!
Q. Do you cancel practice if it's raining?
A. No! We'll only cancel if there's thunder and lightning. Swimmers will tell you that swimming in the rain is actually pretty fun. Getting out of the water is a little tough, but that's what warm showers and towels are for.
Q. I'm really not sure my child is swim team ready, how will I know?
A. Keep bringing them to practice. Our coaches are well trained to assist all levels of swimming. If we feel as though there is a lesson plan that will benefit your child more than what we can offer, we'll have a conversation with you. It's our goal to get as many kids 'swim team ready' and 'water-safe' as we possibly can.
Q. Will there be coaches in the water to help with the 8 and unders?
A. Yes! We're excited to get in there and teach! If you are 11 years old and up, please let us know if you'd like to come help out with the youngest Dolphins! They're going to be a ton of fun!
Q. My swimmer has another commitment during his/her practice time, can they swim during another practice?
A. I make these calls on an individual basis. If it's a first year swimmer, the answer is probably going to be 'no.' Swimming with a bunch of other kids is already intimidating enough, so putting them with the next group up right of the bat is probably a bad idea. Otherwise, I'm pretty open to working with people's schedules.
Q. Caps, swim suits, goggles? Help!
A. If your hair covers your eyes (even partially) when it's forward, you need to wear a cap! Not just for you, but no one likes swimming through hair in the pool. Goggles can be tricky. My advice is to head to Sports Basement or NorCal swim shop and try a few pairs on. They should be comfortable, not huge like a modified scuba mask, and should fit snug around the back of your head. Yes, there will be red 'goggle lines' when you take them off after practice. That means: They worked! All swimmers should wear a 'swim team appropriate' suit. No, it doesn't have to be our official suit, but guys should not be wearing trunks or board shorts. Girls should not be wearing beach style bikinis. I can't believe I just typed that, but I hope it helps=)
I'm sure I've left out tons of questions... So, here are your options: Feel free to post one as a comment, and I'll get to it asap, OR ask me or another board member on deck at the pool. I can't spend a whole lot of time during practice talking, but if it's quick, no problem. If you need to set up a meeting with me, let me know and I'll make time.
Summer '11, on the way! See you all at the pool!
Bryan
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