ATHLETE TRAINING COMMITMENT
The Warrior Aquatic Club uses a “progressive age group” program designed to develop athletes physically, mentally, and emotionally in a systematic fashion. A well-defined, long-term approach of gradually increasing degrees of commitment is essential to reach peak performance levels during a swimmer’s physiological prime. The emphasis in the early stages of participation is placed on developing technical skills and a love for the sport. In later years, a more demanding physical and psychological challenge will be introduced to the training program. In this respect, “too much too soon” can prevent athletes from achieving maximum potential as a senior swimmer.
In addition to emphasizing long-term rather than short-term results, WAC establishes training groups of swimmers who are compatible in respect to abilities, commitment levels, and goals. At each level, the goals and objectives are specific and directed toward meeting the needs of the swimmer. The long-term goal of total excellence is always in mind. As athletes are different, each will progress at their own rate. The coaching staff recognizes this fact by making team assignments based on a swimmer’s physical, mental, and social needs. WAC training groups are Blue, Red, and White.
All athletes must understand the training, attendance, and competition requirements associated with their training group and agree to honor these commitments.
BLUE GROUP
The Blue Group requires the highest level of commitment. This group is designed for the athlete who is focused primarily on USA Swimming competitions. These athletes will be expected to complete rigorous training sessions up to 8 times per week to achieve goals from state to national levels. Training sessions are competitive and demanding. In addition to the ample water time offered, other required activities include dry-land sessions, goal setting, team meetings, team activities, and leadership roles.
Major Goals
Senior Sectional Finals, USA Swimming Open Championships, USA Swimming Nationals, and international competitions.
Competition Requirements
Athletes must attend all meets as prescribed by the Head Coach unless unusual circumstances prevent attendance.
Minimum Attendance Requirements
To remain in this group, 90% attendance at practices is required.
RED GROUP
Red Group athletes are preparing for entry into the Blue Group. Training is technique and conditioning based. Other activities include dryland sessions, goal setting, and team activities.
Major Goals
Developing swimmers will be introduced to goal setting. Each individual swimmer will determine their major goals at this level. Technique is emphasized within the context of aerobic training.
Competition Requirements
WAC will attend meets every 3-4 weeks. Participation in swim meets is required. The athlete, parent/guardian, and coaches will determine in which swim meets each athlete will participate.
Minimum Attendance Requirements
To remain in this group, 90% attendance (based on 3 practices/week) is required. Athletes at this level are encouraged to participate in other activities. The coaching staff understands that those other activities may interfere with swimming and will make allowances.
WHITE GROUP
The White Group is composed of novice and development swimmers. Athletes must be able to comfortably swim 25-yards in the swimming pool with a freestyle stroke and a backstroke in order to be eligible for this group. Athletes will also have a basic familiarity with breathing techniques. Skill refinement is emphasized along with some conditioning.
Major Goals
Developing swimmers will be introduced to goal setting. Individual swimmers will determine their major goals at this level.
Competition Requirements
WAC will attend meets every 3-4 weeks. When the athlete is deemed ready, participation in swim meets is required. The athlete, parent/guardian, and coaches will determine in which swim meets each athlete will participate.
Minimum Attendance Requirements
The coaching staff recommends 2-3 practices/week for White Group athletes. However, there are no minimum attendance requirements for this group. Attendance will directly affect performance for each swimmer.
