Coaches Corner
As we embark on another season I wanted to quickly answer a couple of questions. I've found that when one person has a question, usually several do. There is a link at the bottom of this page. When you have new questions and can not find the answer on the website or in your email, please use the link. This will help me to stay focused on the swimmers during practice.
This section will also be used to share articles about swim life. I find that it can be helpful to hear from other parents, swimmers, and coaches. That we are not alone on this journey. Yes, the name is Coaches Corner and several are probably wondering about the grammar on that one. I'll be sharing articles and opinions from other coaches as well.
Thanks & See you at the pool,
Coach Anna
Swimmer Skin Care
1/31/19
Taking care of swimmer skin can be challenging enough in the warmer months. Winter swimmer skin care is especially challenging.
These are the things that my family does to help take care of swimmer skin. My daughter practices 4-8 times a week. During the summer, I am in the pool 5+ days a week. I do not spend nearly as much time in the pool during the winter as I used to. There will be a post about hair care in the next couple of weeks. Most of these tips help with that as well. #1 is the easiest and best thing you can do to take care of swimmer skin.
These are the basics. If you need additional tips or have questions, please send me an email @ beadolphinswimmer@gmail.com
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
#1) ALWAYS rinse off after getting out of the pool.
A quick 60 second shower will help to remove the pool chemicals. Soap is not necessary, but it does help. You can save the suds for a full shower when you get home.
#2) Use soap designed for swimmers.
A link to my favorite is posted at the end.
#3) Use a good moisturizing creme or body butter a few times a week.
I prefer a thick creme or body butter. Unscented with Aloe and Shea in it. My favorites are posted below.
If you are already doing those three things and still having problems, here are some additional items to look at.
#4) Vitamin C is known for its abilities to remove pool chemicals from your skin. You can make Vitamin C after swim spray or you can buy it. You can also drop a few dissolvable vitamin C tablets in bath water or look for bodywash that has citrus in it. Just google Vitamin C Swim Spray.
#5) Shower before getting in the pool. This helps your skin absorb fresh water and doesn’t allow as many pool chemicals to absorb while swimming.
#6) Take a bath in Epsom Salts. This stuff helps with so many things; sore muscles, skin issues, removing pool chemical buildup. It is also cheap! $3 for an 4lb bag at Walmart.
#7 Swap detergents. Switch your laundry detergent from something that is perfumed to a free and clear product. We use Tide Free or All Free & Clear.
#8 Take a multivitamin design for skin and hair. This tip is more for older swimmers or adults. I am not sure if there is a skin and hair multi for kids. I take Biotin. Got this tip from another swim mom and it has really helped.
Favorite Swimmer Skin Products
#1 Favorite Swim Soap - Summer Solutions Soap $5. This is an inexpensive swim soap that lasts a long time! It is great for traveling because it does not take up much room and does not leak. I put it in a little rubbermaid container & carry it in my swim bag.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/summer-solutions-soap-moisturizing-bar-soap-8281/?sid=72399
#2 Favorite Swim Soap - Neutrogena Body Clear Pink Grapefruit Acne Body Wash $6. This cuts through pool chemicals! I like that it can be found almost anywhere and I do not have to buy it on the internet. Walmart sells a generic version made by Equate for $4. It can be a little drying and you definitely want to use lotion after.
Name Brand $6 - https://www.neutrogena.com/skin/skin-bath/skin-bath-cleansers/body-clear-body-wash-pink- grapefruit/6805370.html?cgid=skin-bath-cleansers#start=8
Generic $4 - https://www.walmart.com/ip/Equate-Beauty-Clarifying-Pink-Grapefruit-Body-Wash-8-5-Fl-Oz/43436406?athcpid=43436406&athpgid=athenaItemPage&athcgid=null&athznid=PWVUB&athieid=v0&athstid=CS020&athguid=3186daef-91e-168a52ef2ece2f&athena=true
Coach Anna's Favorite Lotion for Swimmers - Neutrogena has discontinued my most favorite lotion. Just figured that out and I'm kinda bummed about it.
This is my #2 lotion pick. Miracle Hand Repair Cream $10. This stuff is thick, a little bit goes a long way, and you can use it everywhere. A swim mom shared this product with me last year and it is awesome.
https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Repair-Cream-ounce-UltraAloe/dp/B000136P7S/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1548958229&sr=1-4&keywords=miracle+hand+repair
This is my #3 lotion pick. Body Butter. All types of body butter especially the ones with shea. These are thick and extremely moisturizing, They usually come in round little tubs. I buy the Body Shop brand at TJ Maxx.
https://www.thebodyshop.com/en-us/body/body-butter/c/c00014
Leah's #1 lotion pick. Several swim families have used this lotion with good results.
https://www.amazon.com/Neosporin-Eczema-Essentials-Daily-Moisturizing/dp/B0067JF8CI
Other Articles on Swimmer Skin Care
https://www.summersolutionsswim.com/how-not-to-smell-like-chlorine-after-swimming-in-a-pool/
https://www.summersolutionsswim.com/11-winter-skincare-tips-swimmers/
https://www.summersolutionsswim.com/quick-tips-swimmers-preventing-treating-dry-skin/
Taking care of swimmer skin can be challenging enough in the warmer months. Winter swimmer skin care is especially challenging.
These are the things that my family does to help take care of swimmer skin. My daughter practices 4-8 times a week. During the summer, I am in the pool 5+ days a week. I do not spend nearly as much time in the pool during the winter as I used to. There will be a post about hair care in the next couple of weeks. Most of these tips help with that as well. #1 is the easiest and best thing you can do to take care of swimmer skin.
These are the basics. If you need additional tips or have questions, please send me an email @ beadolphinswimmer@gmail.com
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
#1) ALWAYS rinse off after getting out of the pool.
A quick 60 second shower will help to remove the pool chemicals. Soap is not necessary, but it does help. You can save the suds for a full shower when you get home.
#2) Use soap designed for swimmers.
A link to my favorite is posted at the end.
#3) Use a good moisturizing creme or body butter a few times a week.
I prefer a thick creme or body butter. Unscented with Aloe and Shea in it. My favorites are posted below.
If you are already doing those three things and still having problems, here are some additional items to look at.
#4) Vitamin C is known for its abilities to remove pool chemicals from your skin. You can make Vitamin C after swim spray or you can buy it. You can also drop a few dissolvable vitamin C tablets in bath water or look for bodywash that has citrus in it. Just google Vitamin C Swim Spray.
#5) Shower before getting in the pool. This helps your skin absorb fresh water and doesn’t allow as many pool chemicals to absorb while swimming.
#6) Take a bath in Epsom Salts. This stuff helps with so many things; sore muscles, skin issues, removing pool chemical buildup. It is also cheap! $3 for an 4lb bag at Walmart.
#7 Swap detergents. Switch your laundry detergent from something that is perfumed to a free and clear product. We use Tide Free or All Free & Clear.
#8 Take a multivitamin design for skin and hair. This tip is more for older swimmers or adults. I am not sure if there is a skin and hair multi for kids. I take Biotin. Got this tip from another swim mom and it has really helped.
Favorite Swimmer Skin Products
#1 Favorite Swim Soap - Summer Solutions Soap $5. This is an inexpensive swim soap that lasts a long time! It is great for traveling because it does not take up much room and does not leak. I put it in a little rubbermaid container & carry it in my swim bag.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/summer-solutions-soap-moisturizing-bar-soap-8281/?sid=72399
#2 Favorite Swim Soap - Neutrogena Body Clear Pink Grapefruit Acne Body Wash $6. This cuts through pool chemicals! I like that it can be found almost anywhere and I do not have to buy it on the internet. Walmart sells a generic version made by Equate for $4. It can be a little drying and you definitely want to use lotion after.
Name Brand $6 - https://www.neutrogena.com/skin/skin-bath/skin-bath-cleansers/body-clear-body-wash-pink- grapefruit/6805370.html?cgid=skin-bath-cleansers#start=8
Generic $4 - https://www.walmart.com/ip/Equate-Beauty-Clarifying-Pink-Grapefruit-Body-Wash-8-5-Fl-Oz/43436406?athcpid=43436406&athpgid=athenaItemPage&athcgid=null&athznid=PWVUB&athieid=v0&athstid=CS020&athguid=3186daef-91e-168a52ef2ece2f&athena=true
Coach Anna's Favorite Lotion for Swimmers - Neutrogena has discontinued my most favorite lotion. Just figured that out and I'm kinda bummed about it.
This is my #2 lotion pick. Miracle Hand Repair Cream $10. This stuff is thick, a little bit goes a long way, and you can use it everywhere. A swim mom shared this product with me last year and it is awesome.
https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Repair-Cream-ounce-UltraAloe/dp/B000136P7S/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1548958229&sr=1-4&keywords=miracle+hand+repair
This is my #3 lotion pick. Body Butter. All types of body butter especially the ones with shea. These are thick and extremely moisturizing, They usually come in round little tubs. I buy the Body Shop brand at TJ Maxx.
https://www.thebodyshop.com/en-us/body/body-butter/c/c00014
Leah's #1 lotion pick. Several swim families have used this lotion with good results.
https://www.amazon.com/Neosporin-Eczema-Essentials-Daily-Moisturizing/dp/B0067JF8CI
Other Articles on Swimmer Skin Care
https://www.summersolutionsswim.com/how-not-to-smell-like-chlorine-after-swimming-in-a-pool/
https://www.summersolutionsswim.com/11-winter-skincare-tips-swimmers/
https://www.summersolutionsswim.com/quick-tips-swimmers-preventing-treating-dry-skin/
1/14/19
I can’t see without my glasses! How am I going to see in the pool?
Optical goggles are easy to find on SwimOutlet.com and they are very affordable. You do not need to go to the eye doctor to get them. In Arkansas an eye doctor must give you a copy of your prescription, if you request it.
I wear optical goggles. My eye glass prescription is a -2.0. I am lucky to have the same scrip for both eyes. It is much easier to find - goggles than it is to find + goggles. If your prescription, in each eye is different, you just order two pair. Then separate the goggles at the nose piece and put the proper scrip together. *Not all goggles can be separated at the nose piece.
*NOTE - The supply of Optical/Prescription goggles does not seem to be as steady as regular goggles. I try to keep a backup at all times because certain strengths are often out of stock.
I have the non-prescription version of several of these goggles and we can work to find the correct fit before you order. Just let me know ahead of practice so I can have them ready.
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
Speedo Vanquishers ($15-22 per pair) - These are my go-to prescription goggle. They come in adult, junior, clear, and smoke. They fit my face the best. Since I rarely lose my goggles, I do not mind them costing a bit more.
Adult Version - https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/speedo-vanquisher-optical-goggle-7789/?color=208&sid=72399
Junior Version - https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/speedo-jr-vanquisher-optical-goggle-5726/?color=10807&sid=72399
Sporti Antifog S2 ($6-10) - These are similar in shape and style to the Vanquishers. They come in smoke and clear. I have used these before and they are a great budget friendly option. Sometimes these come in a mirrored finish. They are one of the few + prescription options available.
- Prescription https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-s2-optical-goggle-22598/?color=29563&sid=72399
+ Prescription https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-positive-optical-goggle-29800/?color=29563&sid=72399
Mirrored https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-s2-optical-mirrored-goggle-8177967/?color=59446
Other Options
TYR Big Swimple ($15-20) - These are a solid body goggle. You must have the same scrip in each eye. They are only available in -5 through -8 right now. These have a squishier eye gasket. I have not worn these particular goggles. But, Swimples are great for kids who are rough on their stuff. The strap can not be changed out easily on this style.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/tyr-big-swimple-optical-active-goggle-8132089/?color=47676&sid=72399
Sporti Antifog Optical Pro II ($6-10) - These are another affordable option. I have tried to wear these and have a pair floating around. They are not my favorite because they seem to distort my vision on the sides and they did not fit my eye sockets well. They may be perfect for someone else.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-optical-pro-ii-goggle-22390/?color=28904&sid=72399
Mirrored - https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-optical-pro-ii-mirrored-goggle-8177969/?color=59450
TYR Corrective Optical Goggles ($17-20) - I have not worn these. TYR makes some great products and I wanted to make sure to include them.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/tyr-corrective-optical-goggles-3465/?color=26026&sid=72399
I wear optical goggles. My eye glass prescription is a -2.0. I am lucky to have the same scrip for both eyes. It is much easier to find - goggles than it is to find + goggles. If your prescription, in each eye is different, you just order two pair. Then separate the goggles at the nose piece and put the proper scrip together. *Not all goggles can be separated at the nose piece.
*NOTE - The supply of Optical/Prescription goggles does not seem to be as steady as regular goggles. I try to keep a backup at all times because certain strengths are often out of stock.
I have the non-prescription version of several of these goggles and we can work to find the correct fit before you order. Just let me know ahead of practice so I can have them ready.
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
Speedo Vanquishers ($15-22 per pair) - These are my go-to prescription goggle. They come in adult, junior, clear, and smoke. They fit my face the best. Since I rarely lose my goggles, I do not mind them costing a bit more.
Adult Version - https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/speedo-vanquisher-optical-goggle-7789/?color=208&sid=72399
Junior Version - https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/speedo-jr-vanquisher-optical-goggle-5726/?color=10807&sid=72399
Sporti Antifog S2 ($6-10) - These are similar in shape and style to the Vanquishers. They come in smoke and clear. I have used these before and they are a great budget friendly option. Sometimes these come in a mirrored finish. They are one of the few + prescription options available.
- Prescription https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-s2-optical-goggle-22598/?color=29563&sid=72399
+ Prescription https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-positive-optical-goggle-29800/?color=29563&sid=72399
Mirrored https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-s2-optical-mirrored-goggle-8177967/?color=59446
Other Options
TYR Big Swimple ($15-20) - These are a solid body goggle. You must have the same scrip in each eye. They are only available in -5 through -8 right now. These have a squishier eye gasket. I have not worn these particular goggles. But, Swimples are great for kids who are rough on their stuff. The strap can not be changed out easily on this style.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/tyr-big-swimple-optical-active-goggle-8132089/?color=47676&sid=72399
Sporti Antifog Optical Pro II ($6-10) - These are another affordable option. I have tried to wear these and have a pair floating around. They are not my favorite because they seem to distort my vision on the sides and they did not fit my eye sockets well. They may be perfect for someone else.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-optical-pro-ii-goggle-22390/?color=28904&sid=72399
Mirrored - https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/sporti-antifog-optical-pro-ii-mirrored-goggle-8177969/?color=59450
TYR Corrective Optical Goggles ($17-20) - I have not worn these. TYR makes some great products and I wanted to make sure to include them.
https://www.swimoutlet.com/p/tyr-corrective-optical-goggles-3465/?color=26026&sid=72399
11/25/18
Hope this helps everyone plan for the next few months. The December practice schedule is being finalized and will be added ASAP. As soon as we have shipping information on the Batesville awards, we will set a date for the ice cream social.
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
Hope this helps everyone plan for the next few months. The December practice schedule is being finalized and will be added ASAP. As soon as we have shipping information on the Batesville awards, we will set a date for the ice cream social.
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
11/11/18
Wanted to check-in with everyone before the crazy holiday season gets started. The next few weeks will move very quickly.
High School Meet
There is a Redskin swim meet this Thursday 11/15/18. This is an excellent chance to volunteer and reduce your December meet fees. Meet starts at 5pm. They will need volunteers to be timers, runners, officials, and fill other positions.
Batesville
The initial psych sheet was sent on Friday. I have passed it around at practice to parents and swimmers. There will be a couple more revisions, due to updates and corrections, before the final version comes out later this week. Once the final version is sent, they will also send the warm-up times for this weekend. Leah will send out the timer schedule once we know how many lanes, they are needing us to cover.
I have done my best to get as many swimmers as possible in a relay. If everyone that has committed to the meet is able to attend, lots should be able to bring home relay medals!
As of right now the session schedule is:
Session#1 Friday, 11/16 Warm ups TBA - Meet Starts 7:00pm (400IM & Mile only)
Session#2 Saturday, 11/17 Warm ups TBA - Meet Starts 9:40am
Session#3 Sunday, 11/18 Warm ups TBA- Meet Starts 9:40am
Ugly Sweater Swim Meet
The meet sign-up date is going to sneak up on us all. We don’t have practice the week of Thanksgiving due to pool maintenance. They are planning on refreshing the water in the pool, drain and refill. There are also plans to do some maintenance in the bathrooms.
Meet Shirts – Order due date 11/26/18 by 6pm. https://www.pacdolphins.com/ugly-sweater-meet-12118.html
Meet Sign-up – Due 11/25/18 by 3pm. https://www.pacdolphins.com/meet-entry.html
Meet Dates
End of the Fall Session
The end of the fall session will be shortly after our meet on December 1st. We will have end of session awards the first week of December. The date is still being worked out.
December Session
Our fee structure is set-up to cover 12-14 weeks of coaching costs. Adding the whole month of December runs the fall session to 16-18 weeks. To bridge the gap between sessions and meet the needs of our swimmers, we are trying something new this December. There will be a gap session between the fall session and winter session. There will be an additional charge for the December session. As soon as the details are finalized, we will send an update about December.
The practice schedule for the December will be similar while school is in session. Once school is out, we will practice in the morning. This will allow families to be home in the evening.
January Session
We will start the January-April session the first week of January. There will be a swim meet in Paragould on January 12th. The sign-up for this meet will be posted as soon as it is received. Try-outs for the next session will be the first weekend in January.
Training Plan
Due to hosting a home meet in October, the training plan was adjusted. The starfish and red group have been working on breaststroke, butterfly, relay exchanges, and are going to start working on turns this week. The white and blue group have done a little less training volume over the last two weeks so they can focus a more on technique.
Changing my words
Being mindful of my words, as a coach and as a parent, is hard. It is very easy to say that someone has done a great job when they come in first. It can be hard to say they did a great job when they are last, get dq’d, or don’t finish as expect. I have been working on choosing my words more carefully. Instead of saying, “You came in 1st, that is great!” I have been trying to say, “I am proud of the work that you have been doing at practice. I see you improving. You are listening at practice. I see you working hard and getting better.” Everyone wants to be seen or acknowledged. I have noticed kids smile even bigger when I acknowledge their hard work, effort, and improvement. Everyone wants to win. Very often winning is so much more than the place they receive at the end of the meet.
The work by Angela Lee Duckworth and Carol Dweck has been influential in how I think about effort. There is a popular Ted Talk, about Grit, by Angela Lee Duckworth. “Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. What I do know is that talent doesn't make you gritty.” It is about 6 minutes long. She quickly brings up having a “Growth Mindset” and Carol Dweck. The “Power of Yet” is about a 10-minute Ted Talk.
I know I ask much of our swim parents. These talks are helping me to be a better coach. We are all extremely busy. If you could please watch these two videos, I would be extremely appreciative.
Angela Lee Duckworth on Grit - https://www.ted.com/talks/angela_lee_duckworth_grit_the_power_of_passion_and_perseverance?language=en#t-354328
Carol Dweck on Growth Mindset –
https://www.ted.com/talks/carol_dweck_the_power_of_believing_that_you_can_improve?language=en#t-36
I hope everyone is enjoying their day away from the pool and I look forward to seeing you at practice.
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
Wanted to check-in with everyone before the crazy holiday season gets started. The next few weeks will move very quickly.
High School Meet
There is a Redskin swim meet this Thursday 11/15/18. This is an excellent chance to volunteer and reduce your December meet fees. Meet starts at 5pm. They will need volunteers to be timers, runners, officials, and fill other positions.
Batesville
The initial psych sheet was sent on Friday. I have passed it around at practice to parents and swimmers. There will be a couple more revisions, due to updates and corrections, before the final version comes out later this week. Once the final version is sent, they will also send the warm-up times for this weekend. Leah will send out the timer schedule once we know how many lanes, they are needing us to cover.
I have done my best to get as many swimmers as possible in a relay. If everyone that has committed to the meet is able to attend, lots should be able to bring home relay medals!
As of right now the session schedule is:
Session#1 Friday, 11/16 Warm ups TBA - Meet Starts 7:00pm (400IM & Mile only)
Session#2 Saturday, 11/17 Warm ups TBA - Meet Starts 9:40am
Session#3 Sunday, 11/18 Warm ups TBA- Meet Starts 9:40am
Ugly Sweater Swim Meet
The meet sign-up date is going to sneak up on us all. We don’t have practice the week of Thanksgiving due to pool maintenance. They are planning on refreshing the water in the pool, drain and refill. There are also plans to do some maintenance in the bathrooms.
Meet Shirts – Order due date 11/26/18 by 6pm. https://www.pacdolphins.com/ugly-sweater-meet-12118.html
Meet Sign-up – Due 11/25/18 by 3pm. https://www.pacdolphins.com/meet-entry.html
Meet Dates
- December 1 – Ugly Sweater Swim Meet in Pocahontas (sign-up due Sunday 11/25/18 by 3pm)
- January 12, 2019 - Paragould
- February 16, 2019 - Caruthersville, MO *This is a new meet location for us!
End of the Fall Session
The end of the fall session will be shortly after our meet on December 1st. We will have end of session awards the first week of December. The date is still being worked out.
December Session
Our fee structure is set-up to cover 12-14 weeks of coaching costs. Adding the whole month of December runs the fall session to 16-18 weeks. To bridge the gap between sessions and meet the needs of our swimmers, we are trying something new this December. There will be a gap session between the fall session and winter session. There will be an additional charge for the December session. As soon as the details are finalized, we will send an update about December.
The practice schedule for the December will be similar while school is in session. Once school is out, we will practice in the morning. This will allow families to be home in the evening.
January Session
We will start the January-April session the first week of January. There will be a swim meet in Paragould on January 12th. The sign-up for this meet will be posted as soon as it is received. Try-outs for the next session will be the first weekend in January.
Training Plan
Due to hosting a home meet in October, the training plan was adjusted. The starfish and red group have been working on breaststroke, butterfly, relay exchanges, and are going to start working on turns this week. The white and blue group have done a little less training volume over the last two weeks so they can focus a more on technique.
Changing my words
Being mindful of my words, as a coach and as a parent, is hard. It is very easy to say that someone has done a great job when they come in first. It can be hard to say they did a great job when they are last, get dq’d, or don’t finish as expect. I have been working on choosing my words more carefully. Instead of saying, “You came in 1st, that is great!” I have been trying to say, “I am proud of the work that you have been doing at practice. I see you improving. You are listening at practice. I see you working hard and getting better.” Everyone wants to be seen or acknowledged. I have noticed kids smile even bigger when I acknowledge their hard work, effort, and improvement. Everyone wants to win. Very often winning is so much more than the place they receive at the end of the meet.
The work by Angela Lee Duckworth and Carol Dweck has been influential in how I think about effort. There is a popular Ted Talk, about Grit, by Angela Lee Duckworth. “Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. What I do know is that talent doesn't make you gritty.” It is about 6 minutes long. She quickly brings up having a “Growth Mindset” and Carol Dweck. The “Power of Yet” is about a 10-minute Ted Talk.
I know I ask much of our swim parents. These talks are helping me to be a better coach. We are all extremely busy. If you could please watch these two videos, I would be extremely appreciative.
Angela Lee Duckworth on Grit - https://www.ted.com/talks/angela_lee_duckworth_grit_the_power_of_passion_and_perseverance?language=en#t-354328
Carol Dweck on Growth Mindset –
https://www.ted.com/talks/carol_dweck_the_power_of_believing_that_you_can_improve?language=en#t-36
I hope everyone is enjoying their day away from the pool and I look forward to seeing you at practice.
Sincerely,
Coach Anna
It’s October! The first month of the fall session just flew by! 10/1/18
A few goals for last month:
The clinic last weekend was a hit. Coach Will said there was noticeable improvement in the Intermediate group and that they listened very well. The Advanced group brushed up on their swim skills and looks very ready to train this fall & winter! Thank you to everyone who was able to make this event a continued success.
Focus for October:
Coach Anna
A few goals for last month:
- Lots of kicking to increase aerobic capacity.
- Increased flexibility as many were very tight coming off the break.
- Learning the process of practice. (Have your gear ready, stretch, be on time.)
The clinic last weekend was a hit. Coach Will said there was noticeable improvement in the Intermediate group and that they listened very well. The Advanced group brushed up on their swim skills and looks very ready to train this fall & winter! Thank you to everyone who was able to make this event a continued success.
Focus for October:
- Continue on aerobic capacity. (Kicking)
- Starfish – Introduce other strokes, continue on diving, & streamlines.
- Red – Begin IM Work. Flip turns & dives.
- White & Blue – IM work, stroke timing, training.
- Blue – Train to reach goals.
- October 27. Paragould Swim Meet. Infor should be up on website by next weekend.
- November 16-18. Batesville JO Qualifier Swim Meet. Info is already on team website. If you are spending the night, please book your hotel rooms.
- December 1. Pocahontas Swim Meet. It will be holiday themed.
Coach Anna
Swimmer's Ear -
The dreaded summer ear infection! The preventative drops are just a couple of dollars at Wal-Mart or you can make your own. Here is a Mayo Clinic article with directions and tips to help. DIY Ear Drops for Swimmers
Swimmer Hair Care Tips -
Green, dry or slimy hair is easy to avoid. Swim shampoo can easily be found in Jonesboro at Sally's or at the big box retailers. Here is a short article to help you out Hair Care
Kicking is the Motor to your Boat!
We do lots of kicking at the beginning of the each season. Here are just a few of the reasons for that.
Stroke School
An email was sent a few days ago that talked about stroke school. This is an opportunity for parents to learn more about the technical side of swimming. Being a member of a swim team is usually a very new experience for a family. Our kids follow the same set of rules that Olympic swimmers do. It can be confusing. Stroke School is the beginning of the training that our Stroke & Turn officials take. We will cover other things as well. Below are a few of the things we hope to cover.
If you have a specific question that you would like to be included in Stroke School, please use the link at the bottom of this page.
See you at the pool,
Coach Anna
The dreaded summer ear infection! The preventative drops are just a couple of dollars at Wal-Mart or you can make your own. Here is a Mayo Clinic article with directions and tips to help. DIY Ear Drops for Swimmers
Swimmer Hair Care Tips -
Green, dry or slimy hair is easy to avoid. Swim shampoo can easily be found in Jonesboro at Sally's or at the big box retailers. Here is a short article to help you out Hair Care
Kicking is the Motor to your Boat!
We do lots of kicking at the beginning of the each season. Here are just a few of the reasons for that.
- It is an excellent way to build endurance.
- It improves flexibility in the ankles, legs, hips, and lower back. Flexibility is very important in swimming.
- It allows friendships to form and helps with the social aspect of being on a team.
- All the kids can get their talking out while they kick and hopefully pay more attention for the drill sets of practice.
- A strong kick launches you in to your pull.
- A strong kick keeps your stroke together.
- It helps you have a better body line in the water so your stroke is more efficient and thus stronger.
- Building core strength.
- Improvement of coordination.
Stroke School
An email was sent a few days ago that talked about stroke school. This is an opportunity for parents to learn more about the technical side of swimming. Being a member of a swim team is usually a very new experience for a family. Our kids follow the same set of rules that Olympic swimmers do. It can be confusing. Stroke School is the beginning of the training that our Stroke & Turn officials take. We will cover other things as well. Below are a few of the things we hope to cover.
- Warm-ups
- How to read a Heat Sheet.
- How to write Event, Heat, Lane on your swimmer.
- Legal aspects of each stroke.
- What is a DQ?
- Finals
- Being the best swim parent.
If you have a specific question that you would like to be included in Stroke School, please use the link at the bottom of this page.
See you at the pool,
Coach Anna
The DQ… Unfortunately, it isn’t a trip to Dairy Queen.
Every single swimmer will get disqualified or receive a DQ. It is part of learning the sport of swimming. Our team follows the same rules as Olympic swimming athletes. It is a good thing. Officials hate having to “DQ” a swimmer, but they understand that their efforts not only insure a fair “playing field” for everyone, but it actually helps our young athletes learn the sport, too. Every swimmer involved in the sport for any length of time has been “DQed”, even at the national and international (Olympic) levels.
As a coach I do my best to not talk about DQ’s at a meet with swimmers or parents unless it would be beneficial to cover due to an event later that day. I do not hand out the DQ slips and keep them as training tools. Most of the time, a swimmer knows exactly what they did wrong. Very often they don’t want to admit it because they think someone will be mad or disappointed.
Making mistakes is part of life. It is one of the ways we learn. It will be ok. Everyone earns a few dq’s along the way.
THE MOST IMPORTANT thing to remember is what DQ really stands for….and that is DON’T QUIT.
The most common stoke infractions are list below. We work on proper stroke technique at every single practice.
Breaststroke
*Does not touch the wall with 2 hands
*Adds flutter kick during/after the breaststroke kick
*Pulls hands past elbows/waist
*Arms do not move simultaneously
Butterfly
*Does not touch the wall with 2 hands
*Adds flutter kick after/during the dolphin kick
*Arms do not move simultaneously
Backstroke
*Does not stay on the back or roles to the tummy
Freestyle
*Pulls on lane line to gain forward momentum
*Pushes off the bottom of the pool
A few swim parent articles from Elizabeth Wickham. She is probably my favorite writer on Swim Swam.
New Swim Parents
https://swimswam.com/whats-best-advice-new-swim-parents/
The car ride home after a meet.
https://swimswam.com/6-tips-swim-parents-car-ride-home/
Encouraging Your Swimmer
https://swimswam.com/5-tips-for-swim-parents-on-how-to-encourage-your-swimmer/
6 things I’ve learned as a swim parent
https://swimswam.com/6-things-ive-learned-swim-parent/
Why swim parents are the best!
https://swimswam.com/5-reasons-swim-parents-best/
Every single swimmer will get disqualified or receive a DQ. It is part of learning the sport of swimming. Our team follows the same rules as Olympic swimming athletes. It is a good thing. Officials hate having to “DQ” a swimmer, but they understand that their efforts not only insure a fair “playing field” for everyone, but it actually helps our young athletes learn the sport, too. Every swimmer involved in the sport for any length of time has been “DQed”, even at the national and international (Olympic) levels.
As a coach I do my best to not talk about DQ’s at a meet with swimmers or parents unless it would be beneficial to cover due to an event later that day. I do not hand out the DQ slips and keep them as training tools. Most of the time, a swimmer knows exactly what they did wrong. Very often they don’t want to admit it because they think someone will be mad or disappointed.
Making mistakes is part of life. It is one of the ways we learn. It will be ok. Everyone earns a few dq’s along the way.
THE MOST IMPORTANT thing to remember is what DQ really stands for….and that is DON’T QUIT.
The most common stoke infractions are list below. We work on proper stroke technique at every single practice.
Breaststroke
*Does not touch the wall with 2 hands
*Adds flutter kick during/after the breaststroke kick
*Pulls hands past elbows/waist
*Arms do not move simultaneously
Butterfly
*Does not touch the wall with 2 hands
*Adds flutter kick after/during the dolphin kick
*Arms do not move simultaneously
Backstroke
*Does not stay on the back or roles to the tummy
Freestyle
*Pulls on lane line to gain forward momentum
*Pushes off the bottom of the pool
A few swim parent articles from Elizabeth Wickham. She is probably my favorite writer on Swim Swam.
New Swim Parents
https://swimswam.com/whats-best-advice-new-swim-parents/
The car ride home after a meet.
https://swimswam.com/6-tips-swim-parents-car-ride-home/
Encouraging Your Swimmer
https://swimswam.com/5-tips-for-swim-parents-on-how-to-encourage-your-swimmer/
6 things I’ve learned as a swim parent
https://swimswam.com/6-things-ive-learned-swim-parent/
Why swim parents are the best!
https://swimswam.com/5-reasons-swim-parents-best/
USA Swimming 2017 Rule Book
| usa_swimming_2017_rule_book.pdf |
12/29/17
The Winter Session will begin on January 6th.
We have a preliminary practice schedule for January and it will be posted as soon as possible. There is a swim meet on 1/27/17 in Paragould and another on 2/3/17 at a brand new pool in Searcy.
11/21/17 -
The practice schedule is up for the rest of November and December. There are several dates to be aware of on the December schedule. Please review them.
We have 7 more practices until our home swim meet on December 9th. These practices will be especially important. I know how hard it is to juggle all our schedules and activities. This meet will have special awards and it would be great if we earned as many of them as possible.
Meet Sign-up
There is a new "Coach Chooses Events" option when signing up for a swim meet. Please feel free to use that. We are going to slowly transition to the coaches signing kids up for events. It relieves some pressure on parents and allows us to strategize for points. It is also a way to challenge our swimmers with events they would not normally sign up for.
Disinfect the Gear
This week is a great time to wash all the swim bags and disinfect their gear. You can wash the Speedo backpacks that many of the kids have. Just use regular detergent and a bit of vinegar in the fabric softener section. The vinegar helps the smell and kills some germs. The mesh gear bags can also be washed the same way. Please do not put the bags in the dryer.
The gear can be wiped down with some clorox wipes. You can also spray it with cleaner and rinse. Goggles can be cleaned with some dish soap. If they have the rubber gasket it is a good time to inspect them for mold. Sometimes when goggles are left in wet bags that happens.
Christmas Wish List
I am starting to get questions about gift suggestions from parents. There will be a parent email about this soon.
The Winter Session will begin on January 6th.
- All returning swimmers will practice from 9-10:30am on 1/6/17.
- New swimmer skills assessment 1/6/17 from 11am-1pm and 1/7/17 from 12pm-1;30PM.
- New Swimmer requirements. Age 5-18. Swim 25 meters unassisted. Listening skills. Other skills determined by coaches.
- New Swimmers please bring a swimsuit and be ready to get in the water. If you have goggles, please bring them.
We have a preliminary practice schedule for January and it will be posted as soon as possible. There is a swim meet on 1/27/17 in Paragould and another on 2/3/17 at a brand new pool in Searcy.
11/21/17 -
The practice schedule is up for the rest of November and December. There are several dates to be aware of on the December schedule. Please review them.
- 12/4/17 - High School meet. - Volunteer opportunity.
- 12/7/17 - Christmas Parade.
- 12/9/17 - Swim meet in Pocahontas
- 12/20/17 - Picture Day - Order forms will be emailed later.
- 12/23/17 - Christmas Practice & Awards - Every fall swimmer will be recognized.
We have 7 more practices until our home swim meet on December 9th. These practices will be especially important. I know how hard it is to juggle all our schedules and activities. This meet will have special awards and it would be great if we earned as many of them as possible.
Meet Sign-up
There is a new "Coach Chooses Events" option when signing up for a swim meet. Please feel free to use that. We are going to slowly transition to the coaches signing kids up for events. It relieves some pressure on parents and allows us to strategize for points. It is also a way to challenge our swimmers with events they would not normally sign up for.
Disinfect the Gear
This week is a great time to wash all the swim bags and disinfect their gear. You can wash the Speedo backpacks that many of the kids have. Just use regular detergent and a bit of vinegar in the fabric softener section. The vinegar helps the smell and kills some germs. The mesh gear bags can also be washed the same way. Please do not put the bags in the dryer.
The gear can be wiped down with some clorox wipes. You can also spray it with cleaner and rinse. Goggles can be cleaned with some dish soap. If they have the rubber gasket it is a good time to inspect them for mold. Sometimes when goggles are left in wet bags that happens.
Christmas Wish List
I am starting to get questions about gift suggestions from parents. There will be a parent email about this soon.
9/27/17
A quick read! 10 Reasons Why Swimmers are the BEST Kids
swimswam.com/10-reasons-swimmers-best-kids/
Monday nights in October? Are the Starfish and the Red group going to practice together at 6?
9/10/17
What should I put my gear in?
My kid is a Starfish. What meets do they do?
I want to volunteer. How do I do that?
What can I do to help my kid, when they are not at practice, to get better?
We can't be at every practice. Is that ok?
Will they miss anything when we can't be at a practice?
Coach's Notes....
Swimming is a marathon. It is not a sprint. The goal is to work on technique and basic skills. This base is where we build from. It is very difficult not to compare our kids to others. As a mom, I am guilty of it. Some will pick up a skill the very first time. Some will get it the 20th time. Some will have to practice it 200 times. It will be ok. The Fall and Winter swim program is designed to build a strong technical base and learn to swim fast. You will hear me say many times, "you have to swim slow, before you can go fast."
Part of any sport is learning to be responsible for your gear and having what you need, when you need it. We have a section of bleachers designated as the "swimmer only dump zone". The swimmers put their gear, towels, and the rest of their stuff there. It helps them learn to be responsible and helps with the, "mom, can you bring me my____", while they are practicing.
It was a GREAT practice today!
See you at the pool,
Coach Anna
9/7/17
Gear? What do I really need?
Swim Meets?
Brand New to Swim Team.
New to Swim Team?
A quick read! 10 Reasons Why Swimmers are the BEST Kids
swimswam.com/10-reasons-swimmers-best-kids/
Monday nights in October? Are the Starfish and the Red group going to practice together at 6?
- Yes and it will be a little loud at the pool.
- We will split the lanes in half and pair coaches up with smaller groups.
- This environment will be similar to what they will experience during meet warm-ups. Hopefully, this will help them be ready for that.
- The high school team starts practicing in October. They use the pool from 4-6. The reason we can start at 5:30 on Wednesday and Friday, is because they have shorter practices on those days.
- Yes
- We are in the process of adding a Jr, Coach.
- Many in this group will be able to legally swim the freestyle and backstroke by then.
- We don't know the meet cost yet.
- As soon as the meet documents come out, we will be able to answer these questions.
- Hotel rooms are always your choice.
9/10/17
What should I put my gear in?
- The team sells gear bags that are mesh, have pockets, and are carried like backpacks..
- You can also just use a $1 mesh laundry bag from the Dollar Tree.
- The mesh bags let air flow through and help things not get smelly.
My kid is a Starfish. What meets do they do?
- The goal is to be ready for the December 9th meet in Pocahontas.
- It can be helpful to have your first meet in a pool that you are familiar with. Kids know where the bathrooms are. They are used to the blocks. Nothing is weird or unusual.
I want to volunteer. How do I do that?
- Swim Team is a high parental involvement sport.
- Please speak with Leah and she can explain current volunteer opportunities.
- Swim Meets - Everyone volunteers.
What can I do to help my kid, when they are not at practice, to get better?
- Just come to the pool and play.
- Kids will naturally do what they learn at practice.
We can't be at every practice. Is that ok?
- Yes! We all have lives. We are all trying to juggle work, and other obligations.
Will they miss anything when we can't be at a practice?
- We will review skills often.
- They will have many opportunities to learn the skills we cover when they are not there.
Coach's Notes....
Swimming is a marathon. It is not a sprint. The goal is to work on technique and basic skills. This base is where we build from. It is very difficult not to compare our kids to others. As a mom, I am guilty of it. Some will pick up a skill the very first time. Some will get it the 20th time. Some will have to practice it 200 times. It will be ok. The Fall and Winter swim program is designed to build a strong technical base and learn to swim fast. You will hear me say many times, "you have to swim slow, before you can go fast."
Part of any sport is learning to be responsible for your gear and having what you need, when you need it. We have a section of bleachers designated as the "swimmer only dump zone". The swimmers put their gear, towels, and the rest of their stuff there. It helps them learn to be responsible and helps with the, "mom, can you bring me my____", while they are practicing.
It was a GREAT practice today!
See you at the pool,
Coach Anna
9/7/17
Gear? What do I really need?
- You will need a good quality practice suit. (One piece for girls and jammers for boys.) It is ok to start out with the suit that you already own. Trunks will be very uncomfortable for boy’s due to chaffing. Don’t worry, they will get used to jammers very quickly.
- Goggles. Quality goggles will cost you $15-20.
- Kickboard. We will use kickboards at every practice.
- Fins. We will start using fins in October.
- The other gear we use, will be provided by the team.
Swim Meets?
Brand New to Swim Team.
- The goal is to be ready for the December 9th meet in Pocahontas.
- Maybe do 2 swim meets this fall. Paragould on October 28th and Pocahontas on December 9th.
- September 30th in Searcy. This is a brand-new pool. This meet is 5 weeks before the JO Qualifier. It will give us an idea of times and focus.
- Nov 4th & 5th in Batesville. This is the JO Qualifier. Top 3 finishes are eligible to compete at the Junior Olympics next summer in Iowa.
- December 9th in Pocahontas. Everybody swims at this one😊
New to Swim Team?
- It is ok! We were all new.
- Find a swim team buddy family.
- Returning families, please help the new ones.
- There are some resources for new swimmers on the website under the JOIN tab.