This board has turned has turmned into complete amateur hour!

Well, considering that helping amateurs along the learning curve of swimming might very well land them as a USMS member someday I would say that it is time well spent. Aside from that, what is wrong with helping people out? Maybe I missed your point...clarify if need be.

well .... doesnt say anywhere that only professional shud post here ... i dont think anyone starts off as a pro ...

Originally posted by edifiz well .... doesnt say anywhere that only professional shud post here ... i dont think anyone starts off as a pro ... Don't sweat it. Most people on this board are quite willing to give advice to newcomers regarding the sport of swimming. In addition, most people on this board are not professionals in the sport of swimming. There are some incredibly fast and talented swimmers on this board (myself not being one of them) with a lot of knowledge to share.

Originally posted by Dolphin 2 However, there are actually 100's of millions (if not a couple billion) swimmers... I think you have included the noodlers in those numbers to get them so high.

We may be an inclusive organization, but I think we really have to draw the line at noodlers. Swimmers and Noodlers just don't mix. Just like Oil and Vinegar, Woman and Seamen. Hey, maybe "slow show" was teased by USS age groupers on his/her way in/out of his/her workout/noodling.

Raise your hand if you are a pro and swimming USMS.......................................................that is what I thought, sorry, we are all amateurs....wish someone would pay me to swim.

Originally posted by aquageek I think you have included the noodlers in those numbers to get them so high. Actually, there may well be close to 900 million (about 1/6) of the worlds population) people that know how to swim. However, I don't know how many actually pursue it (as a professional or for recreational purposes). Also, the USMS site (and practically all the others) can be accessed throughout the world and people of all interests drop in (and post) for curiousity. California Dolphin :D

Please define good, average and professional so I know where I fit. I'd hate to think I'm in the wrong category of your ideology is for Master's Swimming.

I think there is something that prompted "it's a slow show" to post this. What was it? Maybe it is the way some age groupers are taught that winning and being the best isn't the main goal? Maybe something else in life is promoting mediocrity? Or as "MichiganHusker" mentioned "perhaps to become the most controversial post?!?" (BTW go Canes ! :) ) Nailed It. Don't Know. I believe USMS should be come one come all. Whether you are swimming (notice I didn't say noodling :) ) to stay in shape , to beat your PB times, to be in the top 100,50,25,10,2 or the best carbo loader after the meet. If someone is happy with staying at the same level so be it no problem. My goals are to continue to improve and be competitive in a good sportsmanship way.

I think he's responding to the "help me learn how to swim" posts that have been showing up in the past week or so.