COACHES CORNER

Welcome to the Mako's Coaches Corner. Here are a few things you might be interested in knowing. This page contains information and motivational thoughts from your Coaching Staff.

Coach Roger
Head Coach

May 2008

We are into our third week of practice now and from what I can see this LC season is shaping up to be the best one yet. Having Coach Rob here is a great addition to the team. And, we have started our first National practice group. Our outdoor pool is up and running, but still a bit cold to swim in. However by the first of June we will be practicing outside (except for AG-2's and 8&U's). Meet sign ups have been coming pretty quick so make sure you keep checking our web site for up dates on our meet schedule.
Because we now have a beautiful 50m pool we will be hosting at least 5 meets. We will have our two Invitational meets, a dual meet, the Brazilian team, and the Nutmeg Games. Wow!

Roger Simmons
Head Coach

Dryland Times

Goal Setting Sign-ups

Coach Roger's Goal Form

Code of Conduct Contract

Dryland Times

5 Steps to Becoming a Better Swimmer

Training Log Worksheet

Coach Rob
Head Age Group Coach

May 2008

The beginning of the Long Course season for 2008 has marked some very exciting times for the Mako Swimming Team. The initiation of the National Focus group is proving to be a very positive decision for the future of this program. The swimmers who have accepted the invitation to the group are working hard, and although they are surly tired, these swimmer continue to prove to themselves what they are capable of on a daily basis. We have completed our first round of test sets, which the swimmers will have the opportunity to repeat throughout the season and document their improvements. While the sets that have been presented to the swimmers seem daunting at first sight, they are approaching the unknown with energy and positive attitudes. The lessons learned about oneself in the presence of a challenge that has never before been encountered are valuable not only in swimming, but life as well. The benefits from this hard work will be evident during the competitions this summer, and the self-motivation and self-discipline required to stay on task will help mold the lives of the individuals on this team.

I hope that the younger swimmers on the Mako team are already beginning to plan on being a part of the National Focus Group in the future. While the performance of the current group members is the prevalent focus at this time, the desire of the younger swimmers to follow in their footsteps is equally important. The philosophy behind the policies for the National Focus Group should be an influence on everyone on the Mako team. A positive attendance record will help each and every swimmer move closer to their goals. Having clear goals documented will help you stay on track with your attendance ambitions, knowing that each day you are here you are moving one step closer to the goals. As each season progresses and we move from session to session, long term goals will suddenly turn into short term goals and short term goals will be attained. Make sure to consistently evaluate, and adjust your goals so you always have a focus to drive your motivation.

I look forward to the upcoming meets, I am certain this summer will be exciting.

Coach Kelly
Head 8 & Under Coach

January 2008

Happy New Year 8&unders (and their parents)!!

First, let me thank those of you who have volunteered at a meet to help organize the 8&unders, you’re contributions make our success possible. Thanks!!

It’s amazing to me that we are already half way through the 2007 – 2008 short course season. You are truly working very hard every day in practice and it shows as we already have at least eight New England qualifiers and several more who are close. What an awesome accomplishment at this point in the season!

As a reminder, we have less than two months before Yankee Cluster Championships. This is one of the most fun, team oriented meets of the year and I am hopeful that every swimmer, especially the newest swimmers, will be able to attend. For those of you who have not been before, it’s fantastic, we dance to the song “YMCA”, wear crazy hats, each heat winner get’s a prize and everyone get’s to contribute to the teams results. Please make sure you participate in at least two (2) dual meets so that you are qualified to attend Yankee Cluster Championships.

Please remember to bring your fins in if you are in lanes 1 or 2 because we are using them almost every day now.

Everyone is doing a fabulous job learning all the strokes. I’m very proud of what everyone one’s learning , from our experienced 8&unders to our novice swimmers your hardwork and determination are paying off every single day.

Coach Rory
Assistant Age Group Coach

November 2007

I am writing to announce that I will be reducing the number of hours that I will be coaching Mako because my work and study schedule has become too demanding - I began my Sixth Year Administrative Degree program this fall (an evening Master's degree program) and I think most of you know I am also a full time teacher at Newtown High School. I will now be coaching Wednesdays, Fridays, and at some of the meets. The addition of our new coach, Rob Bouchey, makes it possible for me to make this change without impacting the quality of coaching you will receive. The Brookfield Mako family is a very special part of my life. If you have any questions or concerns I would be happy to answer them. I look forward to seeing you on the deck.




 
COACHES' TOOLBOX