We're considering a BSLL on how people feel about USMS members swimming in USA-S meets, with the kids. We have plenty of members who do and I have someone who can write the "pro" side. I'm looking for someone who disagrees with this practice and would be willing to share why in 300 words.
USMS has no official stance, just seeking to spark thoughtful discussion on this topic. Please PM me if you have interest.
Thanks,
Laura
Some of us have no choice but to do USA-S meets when no pool wants to host a Masters LCM meet in their LMSC. Otherwise, I have to drive/fly miles upon miles to get to a Masters LCM meet. Besides, beating an age grouper might encourage the teenager to step up their game in the pool. The best comment that I got from an age group coach when I beat a 15 year old was "I can't believe I got beat by a 30 year old!"
This is one of the reasons I began swimming with USAS as well last year. I attended a few SCY events as well during the year, and do so for the pure enjoyment of racing. I do get lots of props from the parents, and a few of the parents give their older kids a hard time (jokingly) about the 'old guy' that's beating them. ;) A few parents say they wish that more 'old guys' would come out and swim in the meets. I always respond with "why not you?" :)
As long as I'm still competitive, and not 'holding up the meet', I'll continue to compete in USAS meets around the area. I can still do masters meets any time too.
Another thing that Fresnoid mentioned above it the pedophile aspect of things. While I think it's a good thing that the coaches/officials/etc. all have to have background checks in order to work the meets/practices, I think it's strange that an adult like me (at 35 years old) does not have to have a background safety check to be a registered swimmer competing or practicing with the minor children. I guess USA-S doesn't feel this is an issue?? I'm not advocating they start doing this, but who knows?
Some of us have no choice but to do USA-S meets when no pool wants to host a Masters LCM meet in their LMSC. Otherwise, I have to drive/fly miles upon miles to get to a Masters LCM meet. Besides, beating an age grouper might encourage the teenager to step up their game in the pool. The best comment that I got from an age group coach when I beat a 15 year old was "I can't believe I got beat by a 30 year old!"
This is one of the reasons I began swimming with USAS as well last year. I attended a few SCY events as well during the year, and do so for the pure enjoyment of racing. I do get lots of props from the parents, and a few of the parents give their older kids a hard time (jokingly) about the 'old guy' that's beating them. ;) A few parents say they wish that more 'old guys' would come out and swim in the meets. I always respond with "why not you?" :)
As long as I'm still competitive, and not 'holding up the meet', I'll continue to compete in USAS meets around the area. I can still do masters meets any time too.
Another thing that Fresnoid mentioned above it the pedophile aspect of things. While I think it's a good thing that the coaches/officials/etc. all have to have background checks in order to work the meets/practices, I think it's strange that an adult like me (at 35 years old) does not have to have a background safety check to be a registered swimmer competing or practicing with the minor children. I guess USA-S doesn't feel this is an issue?? I'm not advocating they start doing this, but who knows?
