I have seen many of the posts made here from master swimmers from all over the USA, Canada and the World.
It has me wondering about the state of master swimming.
1. Which State has the most swim meets.
2. Which State has the most master swimmers registered.
3. How many master swimmers registered are in the USA
..But, respectfully, when you (or anyone) says "I just can't swing it," I believe that is better phrased as "USMS is not worth the membership fee to me."
And that's fine, that's your choice based on your personal cost-benefit calculus.
I agree.
I do like the idea of discounted / graduated fees to encourage younger folks to get engaged in Masters (I'd keep that at 25 & under), but I think free is wrong. People don't value "free" and I don't think free will necessarily translate into greater participation in meets, clinics, etc.
I think the posts where people have mentioned coaches actively seeking members in their community is the best way to go. I think we'd see greater growth if more coaches had a financial incentive to grow their teams. I can think of two clubs in Arizona -- Sun Devil and Mesa -- where I believe the coaches (at least head coaches) have a stake in the financial health of their clubs and I think both are large, growing and offer a great value to their members (whether competing or not).
..But, respectfully, when you (or anyone) says "I just can't swing it," I believe that is better phrased as "USMS is not worth the membership fee to me."
And that's fine, that's your choice based on your personal cost-benefit calculus.
I agree.
I do like the idea of discounted / graduated fees to encourage younger folks to get engaged in Masters (I'd keep that at 25 & under), but I think free is wrong. People don't value "free" and I don't think free will necessarily translate into greater participation in meets, clinics, etc.
I think the posts where people have mentioned coaches actively seeking members in their community is the best way to go. I think we'd see greater growth if more coaches had a financial incentive to grow their teams. I can think of two clubs in Arizona -- Sun Devil and Mesa -- where I believe the coaches (at least head coaches) have a stake in the financial health of their clubs and I think both are large, growing and offer a great value to their members (whether competing or not).
