Development (Ages 10-13, -7 hours a week)
Overview:
Development is a competitive training tier where athletes learn fundamental training skills and begin the learn to
train phase of the AADM (swimmers in this tier are working towards achieving divisional time standard and
demonstrate the ability to learn along with a desire to improve in swimming). Athletes in this tier demonstrate the
following.
Athletes in this group demonstrate the following:
Self-motivated - Swimmers in development are excited about swimming and show up to practice with a desire to
learn and apply feedback.
Team First- Athletes positively contribute to the tier dynamic and learn to support their peers and other athletes in the program, in training and racing settings.
Athletes First - Swimmers in this tier are encouraged to supplement their swimming with other sport-based
activities to help develop land-based movement skills and physiological attributes that can support their long-term
success in swimming. (Agility, bone density, in game awareness, competitive drive, teamwork).
Coach to Parent communication - Parents keep the coach updated regarding any absences or obligations outside of
swimming that may affect the athlete’s weekly attendance or ability to partake in competition.
Parent Commitment:
- Arrange to have your swimmer attend all practices and as many of the other offered camps and events as possible. You are highly encouraged to initiate carpooling with other parents in the group or similar group schedule at this stage.
- Contact your coach by email to let them know if your swimmer may miss a practice or event.
- Stay informed by reading and responding to:emails, website, bulletin board. Communicate with your swimmer’s coach on a regular basis via email, post-practice chat, or scheduled meetings.
- Parent Participation. Assist with volunteering/officiating at meets and further your Officials qualifications per the club volunteer policy. Get involved with other events through the year.
Team Gear and Equipment Requirements - link to Team Aquatics VKSC Collections
2 pairs goggles, 2 VKSC team caps, VKSC team racing suit, snorkel, small kick board, fins, mesh bag, pull buoy, VKSC team t-shirt, water bottle (very important).
Swim schedule and fees are posted under the Resources tab on the website homepage.
