Swim England

A nation swimming

South West swimmers star at Golden Bear Meet

A group of 30 swimmers from the South West region were provided with an opportunity to compete at the Golden Bear Meet in Zagreb, Croatia

Swim England South West organised the trip to educate and develop young athletes ready for international competition. The swimmers received an introduction to the expectations and strategies required at this level.

To be selected, the athletes had to achieve times or FINA qualifying points from 1 January – 4 May 2017. They monitored themselves over the five days to develop their understanding of race reflection and objective setting.

They also had to use race reflection and objective setting, along with reviewing and applying pre and post-race processes.

The coaching team empowered the athletes to think more and be told less to aid their progress, with an emphasis on processes rather than outcomes.

The competition was also an opportunity for coaches and team managers to experience an international event. One assistant team manager and two assistant coaches supported the team in Croatia.

The impact of experience on young swimmers

This is the second year that the South West region have run this opportunity. Of the 2016 cohort, three athletes competed at the European Juniors and World University Games. Head Coach Barry Alldrick predicts that a further three will make international level following the 2017 camp.

Alldrick commented: It was a privilege to lead a team of upcoming athletes from the South West.

“The aim of this meet was to focus on race processes and encourage a richer communication with coaches pre and post-race.  I felt that the coaching team and the majority of individual athletes learned and delivered in this area.

“Three weeks later I have watched this group of swimmers compete at the British Summer Champs and I have seen some very impressive races.”

  • Click here for more information about individual athlete achievements in Zagreb.
Top