My kid is a terrific swimmer - to a degree. He has Jr.Nat's cuts & has even placed quite high at things like JO's & Sr.Champs. However, he does best when he comes in 9th. He can swim super fast in Prelims, but if he comes into finals higher than 9th, he seldom (if ever) improves upon his morning time. If he is 9th or worse, he will always improve & so may have two best times in one day. I have to say, I think he likes being the big fish in the small pond - if he seriously outclasses everyone, he often will do a best time then, as well. I think he has a psychological block or something about performing well in finals & other high pressure situations, but I don't know how to help him get past it. Also, I don't want to screw him up by saying something stupid! He has one more big meet this year, and then he is going into semi-retirement for 2 years, so I'd love to see him perform at his best. Can anyone help me/him?
I think this is quite common. While scanning meet results, I'll see how the winner of consols compares to those in the finals. Often, their times will beat at least one if not more people in the final. Having the center lanes and the confidence you have a good chance of winning the heat probably explains this.
I think this is quite common. While scanning meet results, I'll see how the winner of consols compares to those in the finals. Often, their times will beat at least one if not more people in the final. Having the center lanes and the confidence you have a good chance of winning the heat probably explains this.
