Powers wants to make Guyana a strong swimming nation

Aug 21, 2013 Sports

Rick Powers, a certified FINA (International governing body of swimming) Coach said that he wants to make Guyana a strong swimming nation. He was speaking with Kaieteur Sport yesterday at Colgrain Pool, Camp Street, where the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) Intermediate Level Coaches course continued with the practical sessions.
Powers said that they are currently working on strokes technique which will be useful to instructors, coaches and swimmers. He indicated that he is also imparting the requisite knowledge to participants on how to utilize the energy system since coaches have to understand the psychology of training.

Participants going through their paces yesterday at Colgrain Pool.

A mini competition will be done on the final day which will be based on strokes improvement and reducing drag of the body in the water. There is talent but the tools must be available to work with it”, added Powers.
Pointing to the fact that there is very little competition in Guyana, Powers said that he plans to assist in organising more Meets for the swimmers. “We need to find a way to make the sport more attractive and the swimmers must have short and long term goals which will aid in their progression and development.
The course which started on the August 19 is being facilitated by FINA and also includes theoretical sessions which are being held at Olympic House, High Street Kingston. According to GASA Vice President Dr. Karen Pilgrim, seventeen (17) persons have registered so far which includes coaches, facilitators and swimmers.
Dr. Pilgrim said they are targeting young swimmers and it is a fantastic opportunity for the participants. “Powers always brings something new to us so I am certain the swimmers will benefit a lot and more coaches will be available to the GASA”, she concluded.
Among the participants are Physical Education Teacher Nadine Smith, Baseball Coach Robin Singh and senior swimmers Nail and Yannick Roberts.