Swim Lessons Return After Long Break
Sunday marked the return of the team’s swim lesson program
after a long absence. After about a year and a half without lessons due to pool
repairs, it was a chance to get back on deck, work with kids and raise money
for the team’s training trip.
This was the first of five Sundays, and the day started early. We arrived at 4:45 p.m. to go over expectations, review how the sessions would run and make sure everyone was on the same page. The first session began at 5:30 p.m., followed by the second session at 6:45 p.m., with each lasting 45 minutes and featuring swimmers of different skill levels.
The program is organized into five levels, with level one
for beginners and level five for advanced swimmers. The structure helps
instructors meet swimmers where they are and focus on the skills they need to
improve.
In the first session, I worked with a swimmer in level four.
He quickly stood out by completing all required skills with no issues. By the
end of the session, it was clear he had outgrown that level. He will move up to
level five next week to continue being challenged and improving.
The second session presented a different challenge. My
swimmer is currently placed in level three, but
based on her skills, she
appears better suited for level two. Instead of letting that become a setback,
I plan to adjust how I work with her. The goal is to meet her where she is,
build confidence and help her develop the fundamentals she needs.
That balance is what makes these lessons meaningful. It is
not just about teaching strokes or checking off skills, but about adapting,
being patient and helping each swimmer grow at their own pace.
After both sessions ended, the team worked together to clean
up the pool deck. Once everything was finished, we went to Wow to get food and
spend time together. It was a good way to unwind after a long day and enjoy
time as a team.
While the lessons serve as a fundraiser for the team’s
training trip, they also provide an opportunity to give back to the community
and share the sport. With four Sundays remaining, the first session set a
strong tone. It was a solid start, and I am looking forward to seeing the
progress each swimmer makes in the weeks ahead.
Hello Nathan! I never knew that the swim team hosted swim lessons but it's a great opportunity for the program to host this. Like you said, it not only helps the program in the long run as a fundraising opportunity but also create this community dynamic. I love that your main goal and the program's is to meet people where they are at when it comes to providing these lessons. Track does something similar to this by offering Sunday sessions during the indoor season where ONU athletes can help out a high school student in their event.
ReplyDeleteHi Nathan! I love that you guys do swim lessons for the swim team. I never knew that this was done for, but I think it is a great way to help out and connect with the community. Also, a great way to get more support for the swim team. I'm glad you guys are able to start back up with these since the pool repairs are done. Good luck on the next four!
ReplyDeleteHey Nathan! I participated in these same swim lessons when I was a little kid, and it was very beneficial to me. I think this is a great experience for you and your friends to gain real-world experience teaching. Good luck with the rest of your sessions!
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