Yet...... another comment on "elitism" in masters swimming. This ongoing battle of two imaginary groups....... the selfish former elite swimmers and the non elite counter parts.
Yes..... The Evil Smith and I have taken great pleasure throughout the last decade trying to secretly split USMS into these two groups. Our efforts to perpetuate this divide and fuel our intolerance for "learners" is now being undermined..... :-)
One Big Happy Family: Marcinkowski’s Masters
reachforthewall.com/.../
"Butcher, Zerkle and others say numbers have soared because Marcinkowski has tried to strip the elitism from masters swimming, often thought to be populated with former competitive stars who have little tolerance for learners."
Maybe this kind of behavior is more noticeable at the bigger meets?
I don't think it's a matter of behavior as of perception. If you read an article in the general press about Masters Swimming, it usually highlights one of the "elites." Those not familiar with the program may feel intimidated by this. I have found that the hardest thing, even on a small, local level, is convincing someone that everyone is welcome.
We had a lady on our team who had a panic attack while swimming 100 free at the local Senior Games. She had just been intimidated by the whole scene. Took her to a Masters meet and the same thing happened, but we (almost literally) dragged her back to swim a relay. That took care of that and she eagerly awaits the next meet.
When someone of lesser ability meets some of the stars who are so gracious and welcoming, it removes all doubt about who belongs. Everyone!!!
The problem, as I see it, is how do we market that welcome up front while still celebrating the amazing achievements of our superstars.
Solve that, and the membership should rocket.
Maybe this kind of behavior is more noticeable at the bigger meets?
I don't think it's a matter of behavior as of perception. If you read an article in the general press about Masters Swimming, it usually highlights one of the "elites." Those not familiar with the program may feel intimidated by this. I have found that the hardest thing, even on a small, local level, is convincing someone that everyone is welcome.
We had a lady on our team who had a panic attack while swimming 100 free at the local Senior Games. She had just been intimidated by the whole scene. Took her to a Masters meet and the same thing happened, but we (almost literally) dragged her back to swim a relay. That took care of that and she eagerly awaits the next meet.
When someone of lesser ability meets some of the stars who are so gracious and welcoming, it removes all doubt about who belongs. Everyone!!!
The problem, as I see it, is how do we market that welcome up front while still celebrating the amazing achievements of our superstars.
Solve that, and the membership should rocket.
