How Do I Impress My Swim Coach
As a young athlete, it’s natural to want to impress your coach — and while training as part of a squad is not about scoring brownie points, it’s important to show your coach that you’re dedicated and committed to the sport. Here at Aquastar Swim Schools, our Squad Program coaches are passionate about the sport and love nothing more than to see their students improve and succeed in the pool.
Here are five ways to make your coach smile (and impress them while you’re at it!):
1. Listen!
It might sound simple, but actively listening to your swim coach is incredibly important in terms of learning and improving. And listening isn’t just about paying attention to words; it’s putting those words into actions and showing that you’re prepared to absorb advice and channel it into your performance in the pool.
2. Ask questions.
Listening and asking questions go hand in hand; asking questions shows that you’re actively listening to advice, and considering how you can action it. Your coach will always prefer that you ask questions rather than guess, so don’t hold back!
3. Don’t miss practice, and make sure you arrive on time.
Missing swim practice — especially when you’re part of a development squad — is a big no-no. Of course if you have a valid excuse and let your coach know, they will always understand, but failing to turn up without notice is not going to win you any brownie points. Similarly, always show up on time (if not early) to practice; it shows you are dedicated, and coaches are always keen to help those who are motivated to try their best.
4. Be a leader and encourage others.
Some think of swimming as a very individual sport, but in many ways it’s anything but. When training as part of a squad, it’s important to have a sense of team spirit and camaraderie, just as it is in any sport. When athletes train together and encourage and motivate each other, it helps to better performances. Coaches love those within a team that encourage and motivate others!
5. Get smart, set goals.
Like turning up on time, setting goals — and sharing those goals — shows you are dedicated to the sport and want to achieve something with your training. A coach is always going to be more willing to help those who are driven to succeed. Remember, goals should be SMART — that is, Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound. Your goal might be to swim a personal best, or it might be to compete at an Olympic Games. Speak to your coach about your goals, as they will be able to assist you in setting smaller goals that act as stepping-stones along the way to help you reach that bigger milestone!
Here at Aquastar Swim Schools, our Squad Program coaches are dedicated to helping you reach your swimming goals, whatever they may be. For more information, click here.
