USA Swimming has created a new in-person coaches’ clinic to further develop their teaching and communication skills. The Coach Development Academy focuses on helping coaches become more effective teachers and communicators through interactive and immersive educational sessions. Whether a lead or an assistant coach, the clinic will teach practical skills that coaches can readily use with their athletes to increase their engagement and connect coaches from across the country. Registration for the three-day retreat is now open here.

Rooted in the United States Olympic and Paralympics’ Athlete Development Model, USA Swimming’s Coach Development Academy is a professional opportunity designed for active, hands-on learning across a comprehensive framework of topics, including quality training sessions and harnessing athlete motivation.

The retreat will be held April 11-13, 2025, at the La Foret Conference and Retreat Center in Black Forest, Colorado. The cost is $300.00 per attendee and covers all meals, lodging, and ground transportation to and from Colorado Springs airport.

“The Coach Development Academy is the secret sauce to effective coaching,” said USA Swimming Director of Education and Curriculum Maggie Vail. “Other sports know that developing their coaches through the Coach Development Academy modelhas proven effective and led to better outcomes for athletes, higher retention rates for athletes and coaches, as well as healthier training environments. We are excited for swim coaches to take advantage of this interactive learning opportunity.”

All coaches who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

• USA Swimming coach member in good standing;

• Coaches of all experience levels can benefit from the program! Those with less than five years of coaching experience are especially encouraged;

• Passion to participate in a coaching community;

• Comfortable participating in outdoor activities in a natural mountain setting; and
  
• Must be 18 years old or older to attend.  
  

For more information on the inaugural Coach Development Academy, click here.