Abby and Andrew had a great time at the afternoon swim clinic. They just left totally positive about swimming and life in general. The really loved “racing” against a gold medalist. Abby spent 90 minutes in the evening putting together a fancy goal sheet on Microsoft publisher so that she and Andrew could post their most recent goals in living color on their personal bulletin boards above their beds. It was so sweet to see them working together on the project and to help each other formulate and discuss their goals. And they really listened about what you all talked about in regard to nutrition as well.

Thanks for encouraging everyone to participate — sounds like it was a great experience! They are already asking when Julie will be trying out for London 2012. (And wondering if the Fickel family needs to cross the Atlantic to visit England for the first time that summer.) -The Fickel Family

Thank you so much for the pictures. They are awesome.

Keenan loved the clinic. He was so pumped up, he could not stop talking about it. He came home and set his goals, and then took his materials to share with his class the next day. It was really great for him to hear such a great role model. Thank you! –The Cuculis Family

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! We are so happy to have the pictures. Carolyn and Megan had a great time! They felt like they came away with good tips that they can remember and put into immediate use. They thought Josh was very fun (and funny), and they loved having the once in a lifetime opportunity to try on the medals and meet such wonderful people. Ruth Ann-I could tell from the picture that you took how meaningful it was to both girls. I think it was just the motivator that they needed! Thank you again!
Cathy

Evan loved it. He is now inspired to be an Olympic swimmer and is heartened by the fact that Josh developed his talents over time and wasn’t necessarily breaking world records as a young boy. Evan struggles with that now – he is improving but is by no means a star on the team…yet. ? Evan has also informed me that he now needs to stretch and have a healthy snack 20 minutes after practice – which is great coming from a kid that would eat cookies 24/7 if left to his own devises. All in all the clinic was great! It’s just too bad Isabella couldn’t participate.
-The Statons

More photos: www.swimcoach.smugmug.com

Brendan having fun with some of the Prince William swimmers

Brendan Hansen was fantastic. I was there for the entire clinic so I can attest to that personally. But you don’t have to take my word for it. About 20 parents stayed for the clinic and they all made a point to let me know how terrific Brendan was. He really reached the kids. All ages 8 – 16. He kept their attention & interest the entire time. He really had it all. Humor, fun, detail, great instruction, helpful hints, talent, enthusiasm for swimming and teaching. Really I cannot say enough about how amazing he handled himself, the kids, speaking and the training. Even though it was a school night and the kids were tired and had to get home, they begged him to stay “just a little more” I also listened to the kids in the locker room afterwards, their excitement and enthusiasm was bouncing off the walls. EVERY kid was talking about how GREAT IT WAS!!! I heard kids thanking their parents for giving them such a great opportunity. Other parents called me today to tell me their child was thrilled with the clinic and did not stop talking about even as they were in bed falling asleep.

What a remarkable clinician Brendan Hansen is and an asset to your group. I thank you and God for this wonderful experience. KUDOS TO MUTUAL OF OMAHA!!!!