Training Philosophy
- Performance Group EliteOur prime focus is on swimming excellence. We place huge emphasis on precision swimming which encompases as close to perfect technique as possible.We then place much emphasis on the endurance base and we swim daily trying to improve that base. Speed through endurance is a phase that we consistently work at thoughout the week, and then sprinting at speeds as near to race pace as possible in all four strokes,is our goal on a daily basis. Above all, we encourage our Elite Performance swiimers to take a deep pride in their training performances, and as goals are achieved, so are new goals then set. We expect all our swimmers to attend all scheduled workouts in a week, and swimmers who are 14 and over are guided into early morning training twice a week where they receive personalized workouts in their speciality strokes and distances.
- Performance Group JuniorThis group of younger Performance swimmers are encouraged to also focus on excellence. A certain amount of pressure is placed on these swimmers to strive for excellence, but maintenance of technique and endurance base are the main focus. Where an individual is struggling to cope with the pressure of swimming fast, then we back off somewhat and place more emphasis on the endurance base and maintaining technique.
- Intermediate GroupMany of these swimmers have progressed through private lessons, and this group becomes their transition into basic training. In this group, we place emphasis on strict discipline, regular attendance, technique excellence, progressive building up of the endurance base,and enjoyment. Low tempo competiton is encouraged, but those swimmers who are highly competitive are encouraged to participate in USA meets with the Performance Group swimmers.
- Junior GroupThis group has progressed from private lessons, and becomes a transition from lessons to basic training. . In this group, we also place emphasis on strict discipline, fun, a progressive build up to a sound endurance base and above all, maintaining their technique developed in private lessons
- Recreational GroupThere is a minimum standard for entrance to this group. Swimmers do not have to have undergone private lessons, but a length of correct freestyle and breathing and a length of well timed backstroke or breaststroke, is the necessary standard for admittance to this group. These swimmerts will only compete at the Recreational level if they are interested. These swimmers would have to display a specific stroke excellence in at least three strokes to gain admittance to the Junior or Intermediate Groups.
Training Guidelines
These guidelines are set forth to assist swimmers in reaching their fullest potential and to assist the coach in implementation of his philosophy in an atmosphere focused on discipline, enjoyment and dedication by all swimmers. Swimmers must take careful note of the following guidelines which well be amended occasionally if necessary.
The front entrance of the Recreation Center will be used for all access to the pool. The side door of the pool will NOT be available for entrance or departure of anyone at any time without the express directive of Coach TOM.
Swimmers are expected to be courteous to the reception staff. Greeting them upon arrival and departure is encouraged to forge goodwill with our team.
Swimmers are reminded that they are expected to conduct themselves in a disciplined and orderly manner when they enter the Recreation Center. Training at this center is a privilege; not a right.
Swimmers are expected to arrive punctually for training. Continual late arrival will not be accepted by the coaching staff.
The pool area and locker/changing rooms are to be kept free of litter at all times. Any form of disorderly conduct will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Swimmers will greet the coaching staff with the team handshake upon arrival for and departure from training.
Hydration: Advanced squad swimmers are required to bring Gatorade/Powerade and water to training on a daily basis. Intermediate and Junior swimmers are expected to bring a bottle of water to training.
Equipment: Swimmers are expected to purchase required items and bring to daily training. Advanced squad: fins, hand paddles, zoomers (cut off fins) and goggles. Intermediate and Junior squads: fins and goggles.
Minimum attendance: Swimmers on the advanced squad are expected to attend training on a daily basis. Intermediate and Junior squad swimmers are expected to attend at least three of four workouts per week.
**Please note, as soon as Saturday training is implemented, a Senior and a Junior group will be invited to train on Saturdays where specialized training will be conducted. Any swimmer can aspire to these training squads and selection will be based solely on good attitude, dedication and commitment.
Communication: Communication is a most important facet of training. Swimmers have access to Coach TOM at any reasonable time.
Swimmers must be courteous and respectful. Any form of rudeness and bad manners at training will not be accepted. Talking while instructions are being given is always unacceptable.
Swimmers are reminded it is our goal to become one of the leading teams in Georgia. That goal will not be realized unless every swimmer is committed to his/her performances in training and at meets, as well as committed to the team.
