The U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Swimming is not just a tall task for swimmers, but it can be one for coaches too. USA Swimming asked coaches who have previously attended at U.S. Olympic Trials – Swimming for advice, here is what they had to say.  

This edition features:  

• Bob Platt, Director of Ops/National Group Assistant at Scottsdale Aquatic Club
• Kate Lundsten, Head Coach & Head Senior/National Groups Coach at Aquajets
• Jamie Bloom, Head Senior Coach at YMCA of the Triangle Area Swim Team

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What was your first experience at Trials like? 

BP: My first Trials was in 1992 as an assistant coach. We had a very large group at Trials and we were lucky enough to place four guys on the team. It was hectic and fun. 

KL: It was fireworks and basically a great show. My swimmers had zero pressure, so we just went and enjoyed the experience. It is another meet besides the cool "show". 

JB: My first trials was at Long Beach in 2004 — the last time not in Omaha! It was awesome actually; Very inspirational, very nerve wracking even for a coach. I remember security being really tight. We had to show our credentials everywhere. It was also the first time that USA Swimming used the Myrtha “portable” pool set up.  

What do you wish you would have known going into the first Trials? 

BP: That it really is just another swim meet. Sure there is more on the line for many but the pool didn't get any longer, it's still water. 

KL: I wish I would have known my coaching friends because when you start to know other coaches it makes it so fun and the knowledge you pick up there is amazing. 

JB: I remember that it was the first time I had been to a meet on a “clean deck.” It was a little challenging to get used to — both for athletes and coaches. It’s also a very long week and a half when you include total travel time.  

What advice would you give to coaches attending Trials for the first time? 

BP: We tell our athletes all the time to focus on what they can control. Same goes for the coaches. If the coaches freak out, so will the athletes. Go with the flow, roll with the punches and be flexible. 

KL: Enjoy the experience and take it in. Prepare your swimmers if it is their first time. The venue and meet are big, but the pool is still 50 meters. Tell your athletes what to look for, what the pool will look like and the feel of the meet. Food takes a long time to get, so prepare for that. 

JB: Be prepared for a long trip! I haven’t been to a Trials in Omaha but I can imagine that it’s a bit circus-like with all of the excitement and made-for-TV entertainment. Stick to your routine — don’t let the excitement and fanfare throw you off your game. Your athletes need you to remain present and focused on the task at hand. And have fun! I think that making trials is as rewarding and validating for coaches as it is for athletes so celebrate the moment and take it all in. 

What tips or lessons are you going to be using for your own club this summer in Omaha? 

BP: Simply to enjoy the experiences both with my athletes and fellow coaches. 

KL: It is another meet in a 50-meter pool. Enjoy the swimming and the experience. 

JB: We don’t currently have anyone on the current club team qualified. We have a few of our college athletes who have made it but right now they will be going with their college teams. We will make one last run at getting some of our younger kids to the meet in the next few weeks. For anyone that does make it, definitely enjoy the moment, try to keep the nerves under control, remember to look around and absorb as much as we can, swim fast and have some fun! 

For more coaching tips on Trials, click here.