Aquatics Coaching Guide - Special Olympics

Planning an Aquatics Training and Competition Season
Season Planning
Planning an Aquatics Training and Competition Season
Preseason Planning and Preparation
The aquatics coach needs to prepare him/herself for the upcoming season. The list below offers some suggestions on
getting started.
10
1. Improve knowledge of aquatic sports and coaching skills by attending training sessions and clinics.
2. Locate a facility (community, school, hotel, club) with proper equipment for a practice session.
3. Recruit volunteer assistants from local swimming or diving programs. Train these assistants in techniques to
ensure athletes’ safety during training sessions.
4. Recruit volunteers to transport the athletes to and from practice and competition.
5. Ensure that all prospective aquatics athletes have a thorough physical examination before the first practice. Also,
be sure to obtain parental and medical releases.
6. Establish goals and draw up an eight-week training plan such as the one provided in this guide.
7. Try to schedule a minimum of two training session per week.
8. Plan a minicompetition for your athletes during the halfway point in the training season.
Special Olympics Aquatics Coaching Guide
Created: February 2004