I wanted to thank you all for the warm welcome I have received in my first couple of days here at Asphalt Green. There has been a lot to absorb; new city, new job, a new pattern of life. Perhaps the biggest change is that I have a new tribe to join. That is what a swim team is for me – a tribe. It is a group with shared history, language, and values. Each member makes a unique and valued contribution. I look forward to reaping the benefits of your unique contributions to this tribe, and I am excited to share mine with you.
Our challenge is sharing the value of fast swimming while understanding that we slow as we age. Time is not going to spare any of us in this regard. I am excited to contribute tools to help mitigate the march of time on our ability to swim. In particular, I am a believer in mechanical excellence. Technique is the one skill we can improve at any age. I like to use a combination of drills, video analysis, and one-on-one breakout sessions in the water. Strength training is another place where Masters swimmers can make improvements, and I hope to make an impact by introducing weekly sessions to the team.
In these first several weeks you will see me in the water at practice, as well as on the deck. My goal is to learn what it means to be a member of the AGUA Masters tribe in the office, weight room, pool, and most importantly, on the deck. I look forward to getting to know you all.