Time is flying by and we are less than a month away from the start of our pre-season swim clinic!  The clinic has always been a great learning opportunity for all swimmers, and a great deal of fun for everyone.  So, without further ado, here is the clinic schedule for each of the groups:

8 and Under Swimmers

The 8 and under swimmers will meet on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday for two weeks (full clinic schedule available here).  During the first week the coaching staff will focus on streamlines, basic and intermediate freestyle technique (kick timing, arm timing, and breathing pattern) which will be customized for each swimmer’s ability, and backstroke technique (body position while swimming backstroke).  During the second week, we will work on the odd strokes (breaststroke and butterfly) while also working on starts for all strokes.

9 and 10 Swimmers

The 9 and 10 swimmers will be in the water on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evening for the two week clinic.  The first week will go over freestyle and backstroke technique, and starts & turns for both of those strokes.  For freestyle and backstroke, the kick rhythm and body position will be primary focal points as well as establishing a high catch.  The second week will work on breaststroke and butterfly technique as well as their individual turns.  The swimmers will learn drills that form a great body undulation and timing.  We will also be introducing proper individual medley (IM) transitions.

11 and 12 Swimmers

The 11 and 12 year old swimmers have a little more time in the water which will allow the swimmers to build more endurance which is needed for the age group.  The swimmers have clinics on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings.  The first week will be introducing and detailing the majority of freestyle and backstroke drills that they will utilize throughout the year.  We will be working significantly on their catch, kick rhythm, body position, breathing patterns, and turns for the strokes.  During the second week, we will work primarily on breaststroke, butterfly, and IM with an emphasis on stroke timing, undulation, kick technique, arm technique, and overall body position during the separate phases of each stroke.

13 and Over Swimmers

The two primary difference between the 13 and over swimmers (in comparison to the 11 and 12 swimmers) will be the Wednesday evening that they are in the water for clinic.  During the Wednesday practice, the swimmers will have an opportunity to learn advanced technique for the strokes, turns, and starts.

Overall, I am extremely excited for the upcoming clinic, and even more excited to see the swimmers (and parents) back on the pool deck.  As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact Coach Andy via e-mail or call 203-248-6361.