Policies and Expectations
What to Expect from your Coaches:
This summer, your swim team experience should be filled with fun and loads of improvement in the water. While this is a recreational league swim team there will still be numerous opportunities to compete and improve. Our coaching philosophy centers on 3 core concepts:
- Fun with a purpose - If it isn't fun, then why are we doing it? Happy swimmers build life-long friendships, confidence, and swim fast.
- Progress over perfection - We value and celebrate progress. Coaches will actively coach stroke technique and race strategy to help all swimmers improve. From beginners to seasoned swimmers, everyone can be a bit better than they were yesterday.
- Teamwork makes the dream work - The Sharks work as a team. Everyone will be encouraged and expected to do their part. Set a good example with your own attitude and effort and cheer on your teammates. We also focus on sportsmanship and helping everyone realize they are a valuable contributor to our team.
You can expect the coaches to conduct themselves in a professional manner, and communicate clearly with you and your swimmers. Coaches will also be role models and demonstrate good character. We will provide swimmers with individual attention, sound swimming technique, and race strategy.
Parent Expectations:
As coaches we ask that you adhere to one simple policy; Let the coaches do the coaching. At meets, your role as a parent is best filled by being an encourager of your athlete. Please leave criticism, and race feedback to the coaches. We encourage each swimmer come and talk to us before and immediately after each race for feedback. Please communicate directly with the coaches if you have any questions, concerns, or even compliments. Feel free to ask questions, and inform us of your individual child's needs or circumstances. Good communication allows us to help each swimmer in a more appropriate capacity and allow the kids to better enjoy their swimming experience.
Sharks Swimmer Expectations:
Come to practice willing to learn, work hard, and have fun. Swimmers should listen to coaches and set a good example for others around them. Please be prepared with the right equipment; suit (one piece), goggles, and possibly a cap. While swimming definitely focuses on the individual, it is still a team sport. Team spirit, sportsmanship, and a positive attitude are essential. Keep in mind that you will get what you give. Improvement is directly proportionate to your attendance at practice.
Behavior Standards:
It is a privilege to participate in organized sports, as with any privilege come responsibilities. These are your responsibilities as a swimmer for the SCCA Sharks Swim Team. At meets and practice your behavior should exemplify sportsmanship, class, and respect at all times, especially during team cheers. Your actions should not be offensive, insulting, or condescending to anyone, including other swimmers, parents, coaches, or officials. It is important to realize that as a team we have an image in the community, the city, the league, and the state. This means that you must always be aware of how your actions and language will affect all members of the Sharks Team. At practice, you must come prepared to work hard, expand your comfort level, and try new things that can help you become a better swimmer. You must keep in mind that you are now a part of something that is greater than yourself. Others are depending on your talents, and actions to help us all become better as a TEAM. Failing to uphold these responsibilities or demonstrating actions that are demeaning or disrespectful may result in your removal from practice, meets, or the team.
