Talent, skill, and a passion to compete: These are the characteristics that define elite-level swimmers. But as the sport’s best coaches know, even the most gifted of athletes won’t develop these traits without a plan—one that recognizes talent, develops skills, and nurtures success.
Developing Swimmers is the only book to offer a comprehensive, long-term plan beginning at an age-group level. Renowned coach Michael Brooks shares the insights, secrets, and strategies that have transformed his athletes and swim teams from novice competitors to distinguished champions.
Part I Recognizing and Developing Talent
Chapter 1. Recognizing Swimming Talent
Chapter 2. Developing Swimmers for the Long Haul
Chapter 3. Creating an Environment of Excellence
Part II Assessing and Refining Stroke Technique
Chapter 4. Recognizing What to Teach
Chapter 5. Teaching Technique Effectively
Chapter 6. Improving Freestyle and Backstroke
Chapter 7. Improving Butterfly and Breaststroke
Chapter 8. Improving Starts, Turns, and Finishes
Part III Training and Preparing Swimmers
Chapter 9. Training Age-Group Swimmers
Chapter 10. Planning for the Short- and Long-Term
Chapter 11. Providing Support Away from the Pool
Part IV Developing the Competitive Edge
Chapter 12. Racing Attitudes and Tactics
Chapter 13. Managing Meets for Racing Excellence
Chapter 14. Selecting Meets and Events
Michael Brooks is the veteran of more than 20 years of year-round club, high school, summer league, and country club swim coaching. He has worked with all levels, from novice to Olympic Trial athletes. He coaches swimmers ages 8 to 18 so that he can keep the beginning, middle, and end of swimmer development in mind at all times.