In this conversation, Ash and Kevin are joined by Ross Douglas, Kingston Royals Head Coach in London.

Having travelled the world and swam under some incredible coaches, then transitioning into coaching and again working around some fantastic coaches… Ross reflects on his journey and the lessons learned.

We explore competition challenges, sources of learning, reflecting on the impact coaches have on swimmers lives beyond the pool

The podcast Ross mentioned is called “Finding Mastery” with Michael Gervais — specifically the violinist episode was the one he referred to:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/37boYEzkSbZerIeN6k3xMX?si=H_XOncWqQ5imHkLrKSJzCw

Here are a few pieces of literature Ross would recommend for coaches:

• Open – Andre Agassi – A fascinating insight into the reality of being an elite athlete, even when it’s not what you truly want.

• Modern Methodics of Training for Elite Swimmers – Andrei Vorontstov – Detailed, world-class perspectives on periodisation and tapering.

• Changing The Game – Ange Postecoglou – Lessons on influencing a sport in a place where it’s not part of the mainstream culture.

Don’t forget we have lots of other resources available to coaches including our wellbeing check in, free to access resources and our CPDs. You can find out more, check out our new website and see our other coaches resources here:

⁠https://aprace.club/pages/coaches-community

In this episode, we are joined by Kevin Renshaw, who has worked across three clubs, spent two decades inside British Swimming/Aquatics GB in various roles, coached medallists across Commonwealth, European, World and Olympic levels.

Kevin shares his extensive coaching journey, discussing theevolution of coaching in swimming, the importance of building a strong foundation for young swimmers, and the critical role parents play in athlete development. He emphasises the need for a coaching philosophy that prioritises the individual athlete, the significance of athletic development outside the pool, and the value of data-driven approaches in talent identification.

He also reflects on the meaning of success in coaching andoffers wisdom for age group coaches, highlighting the importance of making the sport enjoyable and engaging for young athletes.

You can connect with Kevin on Linked-in here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-renshaw-13319a43/

In this conversation, David Fletcher shares his extensive journey from being a competitive swimmer to becoming a sports psychologist and academic. He discusses the importance of sports psychology in enhancing athlete performance, the gaps in education for coaches, and practical tips for those without access to resources.

David emphasises the need for emotional intelligence in coaching and the role of parents in supporting young athletes. He reflects on personal growth, the significance of focusing on the process rather than outcomes, and offers resources for coaches to develop their psychological skills.

You can access many of the articles David has published via his public profile here: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/schools/sport-exercise-health-sciences/people/david-fletcher/#tab4

Be sure to hit subscribe, however you are joining us for this episode!

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