coaches

Introduction to US Masters Swimming (USMS)

  • Importance of clubs and coaches as the lifeblood of USMS.
    • Empower members to improve their lives through swimming.
    • Create community around the country.
    • Promote lifelong fitness, competition, and education.
  • Purpose of the weekend event:
    • Support clubs and coaches with education resources, networking, and learning.
    • Share best practices for club administration and operation.
    • Emphasis on practical steps for efficient and effective club management.

Mission, Vision, and Values

  • Volunteers should keep the mission, vision, and values in mind while working.
    • Focus on serving the community and promoting swimming.
  • Gratitude expressed to participants for their commitment to the mission and values.

Event Objectives

  • Networking opportunities to meet and learn from others in various positions within USMS.
  • Encourage participants to take away ideas and strategies to implement in their local programs.
  • Highlight importance of finding one or two key takeaways to enhance performance.

Acknowledgments

  • Thanks to the planning team and committee members for organizing the event:
    • Doug Sales (Chair of the committee)
    • Tom Moore (Lead Coordinator)
    • Ian King, Nicole Christensen, Arlette, Bill Brenner, Bethany, Jessica (logistical support).

Event Name Explanation

  • The name "Relay" symbolizes:
    • The passing of information between individuals, enhancing community learning.
    • Every participant has valuable experience to contribute, regardless of their tenure as a coach or volunteer.

Participation Goals

  • Encourage active participation rather than passive listening.
  • Small group breakouts will facilitate deeper discussions and collaboration on relevant topics.
  • Promote social interaction and building relationships among participants.
  • Introduce fun elements such as socials and competitions (e.g., costume contest).

Focus Areas

  • Topics for discussion will include coach support, club development, event development, and related themes.
  • Breakout sessions to facilitate targeted discussions on specific issues experienced by volunteers.
  • Encourage engagement in conversations about priorities for USMS and enhancing adult swimming experience.

Breakout Session Format

  • Each session includes small group discussions facilitated by members of LMSE development committee.
  • Emphasis on note-taking, sharing insights, and documenting ideas for future use.
  • Post-event materials will be shared including presentations, notes, and follow-up discussions in community forums.

Presentation Structure

  • Each presenter will briefly introduce themselves and jump directly into the content to maximize time.
  • Bio details will be published later for participants to connect with presenters post-event.

Club Size and Management

  • Different club sizes (small, medium, large) and their management dynamics affect operational challenges and decision-making:
    • Small clubs face unique issues, often with fewer resources and swimmers.
    • Medium to large clubs have more complex structures and challenges related to communication and facilities.
  • Common management challenges across all sizes include:
    • Member communication and engagement.
    • Financial logistics including fees, pool rentals, coach compensation.

Differences Among Clubs

  • Coaches represent clubs of various sizes and structures; experiences and needs may differ:
    • Overview of different coaching models (club-owned, volunteer-led, etc.).
    • Clubs' focus may range from competition to community engagement, impacting overall team culture and recruitment strategies.

Club Presentations

Kenny Brisbane, Long Beach Grunions

  • Overview of club structure:
    • Fully volunteer-supported, focuses on community and fun swimming.
    • Membership coordinator for inquiries and follow-ups.
    • Use of multiple social media platforms for communication.
  • Community engagement activities include:
    • Beach cleanups, fundraising for local youth.
  • Challenges include maintaining culture with a growing membership and effective communication.

Ed Suzuki, Greater Somerset County YMCA

  • Emphasizes the importance of USMS membership for access to certified coaches.
  • Structure details:
    • Coaches are employed by the YMCA.
    • No direct management of finances for coaches, as YMCA handles it.
  • Focus on inclusive practices, encouraging all skill levels to participate in workouts.
  • Challenges: Membership fees perceived as an obstacle, enhancing social media engagement.

Jason, Boston University Masters

  • Works within a strict university context, sharing facilities with multiple teams.
  • Marketing challenges due to restrictions on the university’s branding.
  • Diverse team demographics needing tailored workouts.
  • Goal: Balance competitive swimmers with those swimming for fitness and community.

Aaron Schneider, Riptide Masters, New Orleans

  • Coach-owned model focusing on competitive training.
  • Owns and operates LLC to manage risks and business operations.
  • Types of swimmers: competitive, triathletes, and fitness swimmers.
  • Utilizes high-volume training emphasizing competition, but also promotes community and fun.

Jeff Thomas, Dolphins of the Desert Masters, Tucson

  • History of the club’s formation at a country club with a focus on building community.
  • Challenges with limited pool lanes, ensuring social aspects are met through gatherings.
  • Emphasizes a balance between competitive athletes and those swimming for enjoyment.

Conclusion and Next Steps

  • Discussion topics and breakout groups aim to provide practical solutions for common club challenges.
  • Emphasis on continuing education and growth through collaborative efforts.
  • Encourage participants to take home actionable items from discussions and presentations for implementation in their clubs.