DFAC NEWS 2022-02-08 from Coach Tammy

DFAC NEWS 2022-02-08

Regionals- last day to sign up is today, Tuesday, Feb. 8^th.

Regionals is an end of season meet for many- a chance to get your best time after a taper, and a last chance to get a state qualifying time.  Those with state qualifying times cannot swim in those events at regionals.  For 12&U there is a bonus that allows you to go to state if you win the event (not the heat, but the event).

Waunakee meet

Kudos to all of our swimmers- they did a great job😊  Only one event was missed (a learning opportunity), and with so many new swimmers on our team I believe this is a world’s record. 

Parents- thank you for following the Covid protocols and setting up camp in the cafeteria.

Congratulations to Dmitriy who gained more state cuts.  And, as we start taper for regionals this week, we’re keeping our eye on some of his teammates who are close to cuts.

DQ (Disqualification)

There are rules that govern stroke technique, starts, and finishes.  We work on these skills at practice and we give reminders to swimmers before and after they swim.  

• Simple mistakes happen because there are so many things to remember as a new swimmer. 
  Examples:  forgetting to hold still at the start; not touching the wall with 2 hands simultaneously on breaststroke and fly; forgetting the order of strokes in an IM; starting one’s event with the wrong stroke- wait, what am I swimming?  
• Technique development requires strength, and body awareness that differs greatly between kids. Physical activity helps develop body awareness, but timelines will vary and that’s OK, they all improve their skills over time. 
  Examples: breaststroke kick is natural for some yet feels impossible to others (everyone eventually has a legal kick); butterfly and breaststroke require simultaneous movements from both sides of the body.

Practice – extensions beyond original winter schedule

The week prior to state championships is normally a training period only for those with qualifying times.  This year we are able to offer additional practice time by training group. 

Dolphins and Sailfish will have practice through Thursday, February 24^th.

Gold and Performance/Senior will have practice through Wednesday, March 2^nd, but practices will be shorter per normal taper progression- you will be notified.