Is there an ability expectation in order to enroll in Technique Swim Academy?
YES. Swimmers should have team experience and be able to legally swim 50 yards of butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle if they are ages 9-12 and 100 yards of each stroke if they are 13 and over. We want our program to be enjoyable for swimmers so if your child is not ready yet, then please enroll him/her in the CRA Competitive Camp for more technique and endurance
What is the training focus each day?
We focus on one stroke per day with corresponding starts and turns during a four and five day camp. For our three day clinics, swimmers will cover two strokes a day with a day for review and starts and turns. Swimmers are taught efficient technique methods and perform drills in order to better understand the body position, pulling pattern and kick for each stroke.
Are workouts provided?
Our program is technique based with two swim sessions. In the morning, the session is geared to technique and drills, while in the afternoon, the focus will be on incorporating these new skills in a workout setting in order to reenforce what was learned. However, the "workouts" are not high volume or endurance based. We are a technique based program and want swimmers to focus on quality, not quantity.
What is the average ratio of swimmers to coach?
The number of swimmers in our entire program is limited. On average, we will have 6-8 swimmers per lane with a coach assigned to each lane and the Harvard Coaches moving between groups to work with everyone.
Does the program utilize video feedback?
Yes, coaches will videotape swimmers and provide feedback.
What equipment do swimmers need to bring?
All that is required is a suit, towel and goggles for water sessions. Athletic shoes, t-shirt and shorts are necessary for our out of water activities. Swimmers should also bring water bottles and label all equipment.
Can parents watch the swim sessions?
Parents are permitted to view from the spectator stands and free wifi is available. However, this is a learning environment and for swimmers to positively interact with their group and immerse themselves in the learning, we do request that parents refrain from commenting or interacting with their swimmer during camp hours.
Who will coach my child?
Harvard Men's Head Coach Kevin Tyrrell and Wellesley College Head Coach Dawn Dill will take the lead on deck every day. We also invite strong coaches who will bring a unique perspective on swimming to our camp. Most are high school or collegiate coaches while others come from club or YMCA coaching backgrounds. We also utilize college swimmers who bring a dynamic approach when working with our younger athletes. All coaches attend a training session so we can provide a consistent approach when working with the swimmers.
If my swimmer comes to more than one week of camp, will it be repetitive?
We strongly suggest that swimmers attend at least two weeks but no more than four. When perfecting technique, repetition is important. The drills may be similar, but the swimmer will have different lane-mates and the coach will be able to build off of what that swimmer worked on the previous week.
What happens if my child becomes ill or injured during camp?
Throughout the duration of camp, there will be a Health Care Supervisor on site. The Health Care Supervisor will evaluate the swimmer and call the contact numbers as needed. We work closely with Dr. Micheli’s office at Children’s Hospital. It is VERY important to provide a complete medical history for the swimmer and list any medical needs or allergies in advance.
What steps are taken for disciplinary issues?
Should an issue arise which compromises the safety of others physically or emotionally or violates our policy of sportsmanship and respect for others, then action will be taken immediately. Depending on the severity of the event, the individual(s) involved would either be given a "time out" with a call to their parent/guardian or asked to leave camp for the day. If the issues persist and the individual is asked to leave for the rest of the week, there will be no refund for days missed.