Team AquaGym Swim Club New Zealand

THREDBO – FINAL REPORT – TEAM SPIRIT

Saturday, 06 February 2010 07:09

I leave Threadbo Altitude Training Camp as the swimmers are in the middle of their 2^nd week. There are always things to report re swimming, gym work and the professionalism they display. 

This report however is about their team spirit. These guys are a family. They lift each other up when one of them is down; they encourage each other through hard sets;they are onto each other when someone is slacking; and they want each other to succeed.

The team meeting last night was amazing. Each athlete was asked to do a 5 to 10 minute  talk on what they had learnt over the last 12 months.

The following learning stood out for me:

• When standing behind the blocks, they have learnt  that they have to have SATISFACTION. They have to know that they have done everything right and be satisfied with who they are and what they are about to do.
• Being an elite swimmer does not change who you are inside. So after the race or meet, you are still the same person. So don't rely on swimming to solve your personal issues.
• The importance of TEAM. Some of the guys mentioned when they had a problem or an injury, they thought they could fix it by removing themselves from the group and fixing it by themselves. They learnt that that actually made things worse and when they were forced back together as a team as in Thredbo this week, they realised things were getting better and the support was amazing.
• Not to be complacent with previous results. One swimmer had a great European tour prior to World championships in Rome  thought it would follow without effort into Rome. It didn't.
• It's not a matter of success or failure - but rather - success or Feedback
• Uses a racing mantra and believes everyone should have their own.
• Uses lists  for  swimming, Gym and food. One swimmer adds to his list every time he does swimming, gym and eats well. When he is feeling down, tired and sore he looks at his list and it gives him a boost to keep going. To add to his list is an accomplishment.
• With all the travelling they have to do, it is important  to get used to different situations, adapt or die.
• It is good being a role model and helping younger swimmers come through the ranks.
• For me, learning never ends and each of those swimmers has taught me something that I can bring back and help you all with. I am really pumped - hope you are all ready to rock!

 Coach Lea