Maryn
25 meter freestyle
25 meter backstroke
Kallie
25 meter backstroke
25 meter breaststroke
50 meter freestyle
Time trials have created a lot of stress and nightmares for you girls, and I was very worried about the 50 meter freestyle for Kallie and the 25 meter backstroke for Maryn. Last year Kallie, you stopped in the middle of the 50 and walked away crying. Maryn, last year you couldn't swim the full length.
I was very close to cancelling the backstroke for Maryn and changing the 50 to a 25 for Kallie, but at the last minute I decided to let ot go and see what happens.
I will never protect you girls from failure. failure is good and teaches more than success. However, I will protect you from all out disasters that scar you for life. I thought I was setting you up for one of those on Saturday.
Maryn was up first and I could barely watch. Coach Marissa had to carry you to the blocks and you calmly walked to the edge. Waiting for them to start the race seemed like an eternity. Finally the started the race and you leaped into the water and slowly worked your way across the pool! I could barely keep it together and I had tears rolling down my face as you finished.
Kallie, I think I was more worried about your 50 meter than anything else. I still don't know why they didn't have you in the 25. You looked terrified as you walked over and I thought I just caused a huge parenting fail for what I created, but when you started, you swam hard and right along side the other girls. I suddenly felt silly for even being worried because you owned it. One or two girls were in front of you but you also had two behind you!
I can't even explain how proud I am of you girls and how you fought you fears and pushed through. I am so happy I didn't give in and gave you an opportunity to succeed. My goal is not that you are Olympic swimmers, or even high school swimmers. I just want you to be comfortable in the water so you have confidence when we go to the beach or you swim with friends. I want you to have the skills when you grow up and head out on your own to the lake or river.
Great job girls you can do great things and have unlimited potential.
