How we like the facility:
R: The Dynamo facility has all you need to create a lasting, successful program. A 50m pool, 25 yard pool, small teaching pool, ample indoor and outdoor dryland space. It’s a true home for the Dynamo program.
G: What a great place, massive 50 meter by 25 yard pool under a dome, another indoor 25 yard pool, plus teaching pool and dryland area. THIS is a training facility. The ability to get very specific with groups, without having to worry about overloading any space.
What we thought of the coach to swimmer ratio:
R: While we watched practice it seemed as if there many distinct training groups. This allowed for a small coach to swimmer ratio and gave the each group a cohesive feeling.
G: I wouldn’t say there was an abundance of coaches, especially for the more senior groups. However, the attentiveness of the coaches was fantastic. It’s easy to watch and see if coaches are really paying attention, and the Dynamo coaches ARE paying close attention.
Was there practical application of skills during practice:
R: I spent a lot of my time watching Coach Beth. Not only were general skills being practiced but she was also constantly finding ways to teach and implement small details as well. Such as the contraption seen below to help minimize the pull in breaststroke.
G: I was very impressed with the small details during Jason’s practice. Again, it’s very easy to see if the swimmers typically practice proper skills. The senior swimmers certainly know what they’re supposed to do, and are practicing proper basics in their training.
What we liked best about our visit:
R: Seeing the energy that is on that deck each day. There are so many swimmers coming and going throughout the afternoon, all of whom bring excitement and energy into the pool deck. It’s contagious to say the least.
G: The focus is where it should be, on the swimmers. These coaches are fully committed to their athletes, no matter what else is going on. It was impressive to watch the ability of the coaches to avoid all distractions during practice.
How is this team unique:
R: Dynamo is truly a thriving business-not simply a competitive team. It definitely adds a level of professionalism to the staff and the program as a whole.
G: With great history, comes some pressure to maintain. This club does a tremendous job honoring the past, and continuing to prepare for the future. Balance between focus on development, and pushing the senior swimmers to perform is a great mix.
Our take-a-way:
R: Success at the club level doesn’t just happen. And it doesn’t occur because of one person alone. It’s take years of hard work and many, many people to create such widespread success as Dynamo has achieved.
G: A great model for a larger club. Working with fully committed coaches, who pay attention to the details of each swimmer. It’s not just about the numbers, but the attention to each member within those numbers. A very high quality program.
Categories: Coaching, Team Visits
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