There
are four Intro groups in NYAC. Upon successful completion of the Waves program,
the swimmers are then promoted to the Intro level of swimming which now offers
opportunities to participate in competition. From all four groups the swimmers
are aiming for an E cut or above and ultimately to qualify for Central Regions.
The majority of the swimmers in Intro are within the age range of 8 - 12. When
coaching swimmers within this age range, it is essential that the kids have FUN.
Kids at this age need to enjoy what they are doing and do it out of their passion
and love for the sport.
What makes this program so great is that the swimmers are all motivated to achieve
the same goals. In practice, it is a common sight to see swimmers motivate each
other by words of encouragement and high 5s. I emphasize the importance of setting
task goals which focus on the mastery of the skill. It is important to stress
technique at this level of training. Swimming fast is not everything if you can't
swim it with technique. Each person's success is subjective. To some success can
be measured in how many seconds you shave off. To another it may be mastering
a technique or accomplishing a personal goal (I want to get fitter by the end
of the year). What is important is that we as coaches create an environment that
will allow every swimmer to feel successful. If the swimmers can master a skill
and accomplish their goals this will increase their level of self-efficacy and
lead to great results. Once self efficacy is established, athletes will be more
open to taking risks without the fear of failing.  
At
the Intro group we focus on developing stroke efficiency and work on building
good habits through lots of practice. Practices also include dryland training
that includes the Intro group's most FAVOURITE activities: push ups, crunches,
burpees, and many more. Also emphasized in practice is sportsmanship and friendly
competition. After a tough race, swimmers are taught to congratulate their opponent
and to learn that winning isn't everything.
 
What
I have been seeing from the Intro group is that many of the swimmers are coming
to practice with lots of positive energy. It is so great to see the group work
together as a team to challenge each other in practice. In the next few months,
we can expect to see the Intro group swimming faster and better than ever!
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