2019 World Clinic Stuart Smith: Structure and Function of the Age Group Program

Stuart Smith, a respected coach from Frisco, Texas, discussed the structure and function of his age group program. The program, which started in 2014 with 400 club swimmers, has grown to 850, with an 85% attrition rate from Swim America to the team. The program includes two tracks: one for early-entry athletes and one for late-entry athletes. Smith emphasized the importance of incremental advancement, detailed season planning, and continuous improvement. The program also focuses on motivational standards, time standards, and universal test sets to ensure competitive development. Challenges include managing large numbers of swimmers and ensuring continuity across different age groups.