Here's a nice writeup on the masters team in Beaufort, SC: www.beaufortgazette.com/.../5955112p-5242196c.html
I imagine Skip Thompson will remember Coach Fetters.
Anyway, I don't see too many write-ups about masters swimming in the paper, or adult sports in general, so this is good to see!
Former Member
Originally posted by globuggie This time is accurate, I checked the Individual Results section of the USMS website:
JoAnn Chapman
Free 400 62 F 7:45.59L 1 LCM 060702TGML 2006-07-01
May not be fast compared to swimmers in other states, but the reported time is correct.
I suspect that what has happened, is that judging by number of state records, her performances are very good, because good older female swimmers are relatively rare, e.g. the USMS top ten for LCM 400 free 2005 has 7:09 in 10th place. So some states will have a fairly low standard. If they went through all their swimmers and worked out their % away from the masters world record, they probably have other swimmers who would be better by that measure.
Anyway, I enjoyed the article, so thanks to Kirk for posting the link.
In the article it says that the team takes two weeks off per year, one week after each meet. This means that there are only two meets that the team members are required to attend, apparently neither being nationals. I see nothing at all wrong to expect a club to turn out in force to only 2 meets per year, if that is the stated purpose (charter?) of the club.
It is obvious to the reader that the team as a whole enjoys the social and bonding effect that are a result of the strenuous practices and group efforts at meets. The coach's personality or demeanor is of little concern to them other than to secure the bond. I wish more coaches took the training aspect as seriously. Too many are just workout givers, showing no particular interest in stroke technique, competition or club cohesion.
In some areas pool space is at a premium, this is one way to make that precious space more intrinsically valuable to the team and to prospective members.
