I’ve had several mentors before with many different philosophies of swimming, some of which I have adapted into my own. I believe competitive sports should be inclusive, fun, and a safe environment for all athletes. One of the coaches I currently work with here at Chelsea Piers reminded me that an athlete’s progression should not be rushed nor forced. In fact, he said that keeping an athlete at a proper progression for their age and ability can create more opportunities for progression in the future rather than causing them to burn out at an early start. All students learn differently, and I think it is important as a coach to adapt to their style of learning rather than have them adapt to our style of teaching. Swimming is definitely a long but exciting journey.

When I was 7 or 8 I was the youngest one at the Stamford YMCA team. I remember finishing my race at an outdoor pool and having my coaches and teammates at the other side cheering me on. Some of my teammates even had towels for when I got out because it was really cold.