No matter how much we try to settle our focus, it wants to explore, think about other stuff, and generally not hang out with us and our goals. The challenges presented to the enterprising swimmer with golden goals on their mind are very real. The hurdles come in hot and chlorinated: The daily sharpening of […]

Dear Swim Mom, I feel like my 12-year-old daughter is ready to be moved up. She’s mature for her age and faster than the other kids in her group. She’ll be turning 13 in a couple months. I mentioned it to her coach after practice and I didn’t get much of an answer. I think […]

Perseverance is defined as the ability to keep trying in spite of difficulty. What people don’t always realize is that it is the hardest to display perseverance when things are consistently tough. It’s easy to want to work hard when things are going your way. What about when they’re not? AS STUBBORN AS A MULE […]

Swimming is one of the best exercises because it works our hearts and lungs, is low impact and builds strength because of water’s resistance. As swim parents, swimmers and coaches, we know the importance of a good club team. I’m not sure every city manager or parks and rec department fully understand swimming and how […]

After researching swim techniques for vision impaired athletes, Hermes discovered para-swimming, an adaptation of the sport for athletes with disabilities. McClain Hermes’ highlighter-yellow shoes carried her across the blue pool deck as her name flashed on the screen behind her. She walked steadily to the blocks, one hand gripped lightly to her cane and the […]

Swimmers may not find time for extracurricular activities they’d like to try such as working at a campus radio station or internships. I believe that if our kids want to swim in college, they can find a school that fits—and it can be a wonderful experience. I also understand that swimming on a college team […]

Training like a triathlete is a great way for kids to develop motor skills and fitness while having fun. The same is true for adults, too. Triathlons are often regarded as the ultimate test of endurance. Combining swimming, cycling, and running, a triathlon requires a high level of fitness, endurance, and dedication. This is especially […]

People brag about running four miles, but you swam that many before they even got out of bed. Has a stranger ever approached you and said, “Let me guess…you’re a swimmer?” Swimmers might be surprised each time this happens, but we really shouldn’t be. There are so many physical traits that are telltale giveaways we […]

Babashoff’s book is a story of resilience, grit and will power. It is an exceptional book that every swimmer should read. We all can agree that swimming is the best sport in the world. We also know that many athletes enjoy reading as a way to enrich their minds and draw inspiration. What better way […]

It takes courage to change.  It takes passion.  It takes a genuine leap of faith. Graduation videos, postings, announcements, and college decisions are filling up Facebook like an overflowing dam. Oh,  the possibilities of life as they shine bright during special times and moments. To some extent any of us who make big decisions, such […]