It’s a busy time of year for the performance pathway, with athletes deep into preparation for Hancock Prospecting WA Championships and 2023 Australian Age and Open Championships in April. On Saturday, 12th November at the WAIS pool, the Flippers Squad Education Series workshop covered physical preparation for high intensity efforts. This was delivered by WAIS Senior Assistant Coach Will Scott and WAIS Physical Preparation Specialist Jemma Bassi.
The key question, “can you deliver a quality session if you are not physically ready?” was echoed throughout the day with both theory and practical learnings applied through a short, high intensity training session. Thanks to WAIS for delivering the session, in addition to all the coaches who attended the session; Nick Watkins (Southside Penrhos Wesley), Rob Palfery (UWA West Coast), Josephine Suryanto (Breakers), Jasmine Gannaway (Breakers), Craig Murray (South Shore), Beck Foulkes-Taylor (Gingin Aquatic).
11 athletes embarked on the Flippers Squad Tour to Singapore from the 20th to 27th of November, competing at the 2023 Major Event Games Qualifier with some of Southeast Asia’s best athletes.
The following coaches lead athletes during the week:
Lead Coach: Harry Clark (Breakers WA)
Technical Lead: Mel Tantrum (Swimming Australia)
Scholarship Coach: Will Greenwood (Westside Christ Church Aquatic)
The tour provided valuable race experience in preparation for the upcoming domestic racing season, in addition to travel and life experiences aiding the athlete’s long term development. The first two days provided training opportunities at both Singapore Sports School and OCBC Aquatic Centre, with athletes, coaches and home coaches collaborating to provide a strong base for athletes to launch their competition from.
The racing commenced on November 23rd, with some fantastic outcomes! The key message from coaches of “sticking to your processes” was echoed throughout the week with athletes practicing a disciplined approach to race preparation for all sessions. Congratulations to all swimmers who competed. Overall, there were 53 personal best times, 16 A - final swims and 12 medals.
The final day saw the athletes and staff explore Singapore including a trip up to the top of the famed Marina Bay Sands hotel!
Many thanks to Singapore Sports School, Singapore Swimming and all coaches involved in helping provide an incredible opportunity for athletes to experience international travel and racing.