Hello Parents and Swimmers,

As we enter Week 7 of training, the Warm Springs Gators are approaching an important transition point in our season. This is our final full week of preparation before Time Trials on Saturday, May 9, and before our dual meet season officially begins on May 16 against Treeview swim club. The work we do this week will help lay the foundation for the habits, confidence, and race skills our athletes will carry into the season ahead.

Last week, our practices integrated drill work, sprint work, and distance training while continuing to increase overall intensity and focus. One of the major technical skills we introduced was the use of Swim Bridges — a tool designed to help athletes better understand underwater distance and breakout timing. This skill teaches swimmers how to reduce drag, maintain a strong body line, apply proper pressure in the water, and connect their underwater dolphin kicks or breaststroke pullouts into an efficient breakout at the surface.

In shorter distances, many athletes are already showing success with these skills. As we increase workload through longer distances and reduced rest, however, we are continuing to work toward consistency under fatigue. This is a normal and important part of development. Learning how to maintain technique while tired is one of the key differences between practicing and truly training.

This week, practices will continue emphasizing underwater work, breakouts, turns, dives, and stroke efficiency:

As intensity rises, we want to remind athletes that coachability matters. Improvement happens fastest when athletes remain engaged, focused, and willing to apply corrections in real time. Practice moves quickly, and athletes who actively listen, think critically, and stay mentally involved will continue to elevate both their understanding and their performance.

Athletes should also continue being mindful of their behavior and practice etiquette. Focus should remain on themselves, their coach, and the water. Keeping hands and feet to themselves, avoiding distractions, and respecting teammates helps create an environment where everyone can improve together. Team unity, discipline, and positivity are essential parts of a successful program.

Attendance remains extremely important during this stage of the season. Time in the water is necessary for improvement, and consistent participation helps athletes build confidence, endurance, and understanding of the skills we are practicing. Engaging fully in the process creates stronger, more prepared athletes both physically and mentally.

A reminder that our Team Potluck and Family Meet & Greet will take place Friday, May 8 from 5:30 PM–7:30 PM. We are looking forward to bringing athletes and families together as we head into the competitive portion of our season.

Time Trials will be held Saturday, May 9. Participation is highly encouraged and extremely important for team unity and development. Attending Time Trials demonstrates commitment to the team, teammates, and the goals we are working toward together. It also helps establish a baseline for future meets and gives athletes valuable experience with meet procedures, warm-ups, racing, and expectations before our official dual meet season begins.

Please note: the deadline for Time Trial entries is Monday, May 4 at 11:00 PM. At this time, we still have 37 undeclared athletes. Families are encouraged to complete declarations as soon as possible.

As always, what happens outside the pool directly impacts performance inside the pool. Athletes should continue prioritizing proper sleep, hydration, healthy nutrition, and recovery so they are physically and mentally prepared to work hard each day.

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier

The coaching staff is proud of the progress our athletes continue to make. We are excited to see the Gators continue building confidence, improving consistency, and pushing themselves toward new standards as we begin our season together.

Gators will apply their skills.
Gators will trust the process.
Gators will remain coachable.
Gators will compete as one team.

Go Gators,

Coach Ian
Head Coach, Warm Springs Gators