Essential NST Communication
Hello,
With the retirement of a head coach and assistant coach, Newport Swim Team has been in a state of coach transition for the past two seasons. All coaches are different, and each coach will bring unique qualities to the pool deck. Coaches may have contrasting opinions of a swimmer’s technique, abilities, work ethic, and attitude. As such, swimmers can benefit greatly from a variety of coaching insights over the course of their swim careers. Coach changes have brought different rules, policies, and structure to the team. As a result of our leadership changes, the team’s bylaws and handbook are under revision to reflect current dynamics and these are reviewed by the board.
Over the past four decades, Newport Swim Team coaches have always operated with the best interest of the swimmer in mind. Our coaches want to see swimmers grow as competitors and as individuals out of the water. Our coaching staff strives to help swimmers meet their goals.
When our coaches are on deck—both at practice and at a meet—their focus is on the swimmers and maximizing coaching time. If you would like to speak with any member of our coaching staff, we strongly encourage you to reach out via the TeamSnap app to request a time to chat. The coaches will confirm a good day and time to swing by practice, so that you get their full attention. Coach Shayna in particular loves to speak with parents and brag about swimmer accomplishments.
The Newport Swim Team Board, Team Manager, and Head Coach are here to help families with any information they may need. Always. We understand families may develop opinions or overhear other people’s judgements based on their individual experiences. Please remember there can be different sides to every interaction and we encourage open dialogue with NST leadership about any concerns you have about your swimmer and the management of the team. As a leadership team we are here to answer questions, discuss issues and address any concerns. NST monthly board meetings are also open to all NST families and a great way to learn more about the management of the team if you are interested.
The Board believes in, and stands by, our dedicated coaching staff, now led by Coach Shayna. Shayna offers an amazing wealth of competitive swimming knowledge to our swimmers and our community. Also, the Board has encouraged, and Coach Shayna has committed to continuing her education off the pool deck as well. Coach John—who is a Board Member—will be mentoring Coach Shayna over the coming months as she continues to settle into her role with a larger team. Coach Shayna has also taken the initiative to enroll in monthly coaching workshops available through USA Swimming to build her deck skills. It is this dedication to continuous improvement that excites us about the future of our team.
Coach transitions always come with changes. We appreciate change can be hard and some people adapt to transitions easier than others. We experienced this when Coach John came to Newport nearly a decade ago. We assure you that Coaches Shayna, Kathy, Gavin, and Maria have exciting plans for the team and your swimmer will remain at the forefront of everything they do.
Again, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out.
Thank you!
Kasey Postlewait, Team Manager and Kacey Baxter, Board President
