Did you know?
Drowning is a leading killer of American children.
In ethnic communities, drowning rates are nearly three
times the national average.
More than 30% of kids are at risk for obesity-related
illnesses.
Swimming is a cure.
Key
Questions
While winning is nice, while setting a record, getting
a best time, or making a qualifying time feels good, we hope that
our young athletes learn more than �it is great to swim fast�. No where in human history or
theology do we learn that the ability to swim fast holds a very high
priority in the grand scheme of the universe. From a practical
standpoint, over-emphasis on speed, times and achievements will
eventually end in frustration. No matter how fast a young athlete
swims, there will probably be another swimmer in the next town,
state, or country, swimming faster, if not now, then next month. So
as coaches and parents, ask yourselves:
�
Did the child learn to
swim with more skill this past season so he or she is both stronger
and safer in the water?
�
Did the child learn to
exhibit initiative, wanting to come to the pool and do the practice
without having to be constantly pushed or prodded by parents and
coaches?
�
Did the child learn
something about unselfishness, sacrificing his or her personal wants
for the good of others or the team?
�
Did the child benefit
from the competitive experience, learning how to handle winning and
losing in our competitive society?
�
Did the child learn more
patience in overcoming obstacles, setbacks and
problems?
�
Did the child learn
empathy?
In a
few years, the medals and ribbons will be laid aside and best times
will be a hazy memory. The friendships that will develop and the
life skills learned will carry on for a
lifetime.