The Cranston YMCA Blue Marlin Swim Team uses a “progressive” age group program designed to develop the child physically, mentally and emotionally in a systematic fashion.  A well-defined long term approach of gradually increasing degrees of commitment is essential to reach peak performance levels during a swimmer’s physiological prime.  The emphasis in the early stages of participation must be placed on developing technical skills and a love for the sport.  In the later years, a more demanding physical and psychological challenge must be introduced to the training program.  In this respect, “too much too soon” is more often the cause of failure to achieve maximum potential in senior swimming than the reverse situation.

In addition to emphasizing long-term rather than short-term results, it is important that we establish Training_Groups of swimmers who are compatible in respect to abilities, commitment levels and goals.  Unfortunately this is not always the most convenient approach to take, but it is always the most productive.

At each level, the goals and objectives are specific and directed toward meeting the needs of the swimmer.  The long term goal of excellence is always in mind.  As each child is different, he/she will progress at their own rate.  The coaching staff recognizes this fact by making team assignments based on a swimmer’s physical, mental and emotional level of development.

The levels are: Senior Team, Junior A Team, Junior B Team, Mini Marlin, Marlin-In-Training