The USMS Coaches Committee is looking at ways to increase the knowledge and professionalism of all coaches. One way to do that is through the Mentor and Mentee program. Below is more information about the program, including a link to the USMS program.
The USMS Mentor Program matches experienced Swim Coaches with other Coaches wishing to sharpen their skills. As a Mentor, you have the unique opportunity to influence other Masters swim coaches positively. To assist others in your same field, freely share ideas to improve someone else and their club. This interaction, in turn, raises the professionalism bar for our sport. As simple as working with one Coach, a Mentor Coach will have a lasting impact on the Mentee’s program. You may cover topics such as Club growth, stability assistance, financial concepts, and marketing ideas which, in turn, helps USMS become stronger.
“The entire Mentor Program was worthwhile, and I feel that I benefited immensely from the opportunity.” – Ann Vitt (2019 Mentee)
Mentees will work alongside Mentors to observe on-deck skills such as writing workouts, accounting for different abilities and goals, and take in different personal coaching styles. Mentees felt a vital benefit was sitting down and expressing their coaching concerns to other coaches. Coaches shared their thoughts on various situations and gained a lot of important insight into the management of their program.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time working with the coaches that were part of the Mentor Program. Not only did I have a sense of being an assistant to another Coach, but the experience also made me realize that we are a Community of Coaches and we should all do everything we can to lift each other up.” – Susan Ingraham (2019 Mentor)
