Maryville Alcoa Flying Dolphin Practice Groups

Groups are fluid meaning a swimmer can move to a more appropriate group as needed. The coaches determine the training group based on ability, age, effort, and family schedule. Special circumstances will be used as appropriate to determine grouping.

Hourglass Dolphin - To be eligible for this group, the child must be able to swim a lap of something close to freestyle or backstroke. They learn the beginning stroke mechanics and gain an understanding of what it takes to be on a swim team. These swimmers can compete if the coach is confident they can swim without stopping to grab lane ropes or the wall. One hour practice length.

Risso Dolphin- To be eligible for this group, the child must be able to stay on task for a 1 hour workout. Practice will have games, instruction, and a short main set. These swimmers develop the skills that help them compete.

Bottlenose Dolphin - To be eligible for this group, the child should be able to work hard through a 90 minute workout. Games, instruction, and main sets are used. Children will be taught and expected to try flip turns and interval sets when applicable. This is a fun but still serious workout for the 10 and unders who try hard and like to compete.

Striped Dolphin - To be eligible for this group, the swimmer should be excited to learn and try their best throughout a 90 minute workout. Lots of instruction is used in this group to prepare them for more interval and main sets.

Spinner Dolphin - To be eligible for this group, the swimmer must show hard work and increased dedication. These swimmers should be able to understand and complete 10 x 100s.

Dusky Dolphin - This group should be serious about competitive swimming. To be eligible for this group, the swimmer should be able to swim 10x100s on a 1:45 scy or 2:00 lcm.  They should also be able to swim a mile continuously.