First blog

Here is what this blog is all about. It is basically going to be a compilation of what I see and hear on deck and off, that Ithink is right or wrong. As well as swimming news and other news that i just decide is relevant to the blog. So to start let me tell you what I saw on deck today as i was visiting a meet right down the street from my house...

• A child (maybe 10 or 11) being berated for not getting his q time in an event, even though he had gone for a personal best and this was the third day of a very busy meet for him! Im sorry but someday I would like to be the exact opposite of this coach. Whenever one of my swimmers swims be it a best time or not I always share in the blame or joy depending on how they did. I dont care who you are you can not get mad at a kid for not living up to your expectations. We have to remember that were not here to make olympic caliber swimmers but people who love swimming as much as we do!

• I saw a former olympic swimmer and was reminded what was so great about our sport. Not the money or fame (we all know swimmers are known for being rich and famous) but the people! I was able to sit down with this person and they were willing to tell me their story including all the ups and downs and what it would take to make it as a successful swim coach. Just the fact that this person is willing to share their "secrets" with me is amazing.

Now I have to encourage you to tell me what you love about swimming, and also where you would like to have me write about.