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The Coffman YMCA Swim Team uses a
“progressive” age group program designed to develop the
child physically, mentally and emotionally in a systematic fashion.
A well-defined, long-team approach of gradually increasing degrees
of commitment is essential to reach peak performance levels during
a swimmer’s physiological prime. The emphasis in the early
stages of participation must be placed on developing technical
skills and a love for the sport. In the later years, a more
demanding physical and psychological challenge must be introduced
to the training program. In addition to emphasizing long-term
rather than short-term results, it is also important that we
establish training groups of swimmers who are compatible in respect
to abilities, commitment levels and goals.
At each level, the goals and objectives are specific and directed
toward meeting the needs of the swimmer. The long-term goal of
total excellence is always in mind. As each child is different,
he/she will progress at his/her own rate. The coaching staff
recognizes this fact by making team assignments based on a
swimmer’s physical, mental and emotional level of
development.
PRACTICE
GROUPS
Maroon – This is a novice group with a major
emphasis on stroke technique. The Maroon swimmers generally swim
three days a week for one hour each day. Most of the swimmers in
this group are between the ages of 6 and 8 years of age. To join
this group you must have a good understanding of all four
stokes.
Green – The majority of time is spent working on
refining stroke mechanics. These swimmers have started to exhibit
good swimming skills and will be introduced to more advanced
training skills and processes. Green swimmers typically swim three
to four times per week, averaging one and a quarter hours per
session. Most of the swimmers in this group are between the ages of
8 and 10.
White – These swimmers have started to exhibit good
swimming skills. They spend their time equally between stroke
technique, training skill, and processes. White swimmers are
offered approximately five practice times per week where workouts
average one and one half hours per day. Most of the swimmers in the
White group are between the ages of 10 to 13.
Age Group – Age Group swimmers are beginning to grasp
technique and strategy. They are a training group while continuing
to refine stroke technique. Most of the swimmers in Age Group are
between the ages of 13 and 18 years old. Workouts for this group
are offered five times a week and usually last one and a half
hours. Dry land sessions are included at this level as
well.
Senior – Senior swimmers should have a grasp on
technique and strategy. This is a training group that trains and
prepares swimmers for the highest level of competition. This group
also has the highest level of commitment. Swimmers in the Senior
group are admitted to this group with coach’s permission
only. Workouts are required six days a week both before and after
school and include dry land sessions.
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