National Group

The National Group represents the highest level of practice and coaching available with the South Shore YMCA Strypers. Swimmers in the National Group are working to achieve the highest levels of both YMCA and USA Swimming. Swimmers are considered for this group based on a combination of three main criteria:

1. Readiness and ability to execute the practice.
2. Meet performances.
3. Age.

*National Group invitees are selected by the Head Coach.

Equipment: two pair of goggles; cap; short fins; drag suit; kickboard; power paddles; speed paddles; snorkel.

(All equipment is the responsibility of the athlete and must be brought to every practice).

Goals:

Swimmer is working toward the following accomplishments:

- 4 x 400 IM @ 5.50.
- 4 x 100 kick @ 1.20.
- 10 x 100 freestyle @ 1.10.

and any one of the following:

- 24 x 100 freestyle @ 1.12 (Women) and 1.08 (Men).
- 24 x 100 backstroke @ 1.20 (Women) and 1.15 (Men).
- 24 x 100 breastroke @ 1.30 (Women) and 1.25 (Men).
- 24 x 100 butterfly @ 1.20 (Women) and 1.15 (Men).

Training Program:

Coaches and swimmers are focused on developing a comprehensive training accounting for stroke refinement, increased aerobic and anaerobic capacity, event-specific dry-land routine, mental skills and balanced nutrition for athletes.

Championships Behaviour and Accountability:

1. The swimmer accepts the responsibility of being a leader and/or role model by working with younger swimmers. The swimmer leads by being a positive example.
2. The swimmer understands the importance of planning out the season with the Head Coach.

3. The swimmer recognizes the effects of poor communication.
4. The swimmer demonstrates the attributes of quality sportsmanship.

Work Ethic and Self-Discipline:

1. The swimmer takes pride in doing the little things well.
2. The swimmer demonstrates self-motivation.
3 .The swimmer deomstrates an understanding of the short and long term effects of performance enhancing drugs.

Time Management:

The swimmer has mastered time management skills so outside activities do not interfere with practice and meet attendance.

Commitment and Loyalty:

1. The swimmer demonstrates commitment to his or her team by continued dedicated membership.

Social Awareness:

1. The swimmer willingly and enthusiastically assists those less fortunate.