All amateur swimmers 18 and over should be required to swim at least one masters meet per year. This would help with the transition into adult life, and really show the younger generation the value of masters swimming. Adults who continue to love the sport, that's a great networking tool and a positive way to stay involved with people of similar interests.
Parents
Former Member
It's much easier compared to racing heats and finals in the 50, 100, 200, 400 free, 100, 200 back, 100 fly, 200 IM and all the relays, 20+ times a year, (not to mention the training) just so the club I paid could score more points on the National charts. This was required, just to be on the team.
So many young swimmers quit, and they equate "swimming" with that kind of program, they lose interest quickly... Masters is better, but how would they know if they've never been part of this environment.
Jonathan:
It's easy for you to say there's no pressure at a masters meet.
It's much easier compared to racing heats and finals in the 50, 100, 200, 400 free, 100, 200 back, 100 fly, 200 IM and all the relays, 20+ times a year, (not to mention the training) just so the club I paid could score more points on the National charts. This was required, just to be on the team.
So many young swimmers quit, and they equate "swimming" with that kind of program, they lose interest quickly... Masters is better, but how would they know if they've never been part of this environment.
Jonathan:
It's easy for you to say there's no pressure at a masters meet.
