Dear Swim Team Parents,

We wanted to reach out regarding some ongoing concerns during practices this season. As coaches, our goal is always to create a safe, supportive, and productive environment where every swimmer can improve, build confidence, and enjoy being part of the team. We care deeply about these kids and want to help them achieve things they may not have thought possible.

Recently, however, we have seen a significant increase in disruptive behavior across multiple practice groups that is affecting both safety and the team’s ability to progress.

Some examples of concerns we are consistently addressing include:

• Repeatedly ignoring coaches’ instructions
• Excessive talking, yelling, and playing during instruction time
• Leaving the pool or practice area without permission
• Refusing to participate in assigned sets or drills
• Purposefully delaying practice for teammates
• Walking on the bottom of the pool instead of swimming
• Stopping mid-set to socialize
• Unsafe behavior such as running on deck, pushing, wrestling, standing improperly on blocks, or roughhousing near the pool
• Arguing with coaches after being given directions or corrections
• Disrespectful responses toward coaches and teammates

We have also seen an increase in bullying and exclusionary behavior, including:

• Making teammates feel unwelcome or unwanted
• Insulting swimmers based on speed or skill level
• Openly refusing to work with certain teammates
• Taunting or targeting swimmers with hurtful comments
• Using sarcasm or comparisons to make others feel inferior intentionally

These behaviors are not representative of the team culture we want to build.

Our coaches have already tried multiple approaches, including repeating instructions, adjusting coaching methods, individual conversations with swimmers, redirection, and discipline when necessary. Unfortunately, many of these issues have continued despite those efforts.

At this point in the season, practices are not progressing as effectively as they should because so much time is being spent managing behavior rather than teaching technique, endurance, and race skills. We also want to recognize that there are many swimmers who are consistently working hard, listening, and wanting to learn more, and they deserve an environment where they can continue to grow without constant interruptions.

We are asking parents to please speak with their swimmers about:

• Respecting coaches and teammates
• Listening the first time instructions are given
• Practicing good sportsmanship
• Maintaining safe behavior on deck and in the pool
• Understanding that practice is a place for learning, effort, and teamwork

Please also remind swimmers that coaches are here to help them improve. Corrections, structure, and discipline are part of helping athletes grow both in swimming and in character.

We truly appreciate the support from our swim families and know that, working together, we can help create a more positive and successful environment for everyone on the team.

Thank you,
Coach Liz, Megan, and Ve