A Physical and Psychological Approach to the Next Level by Frank Busch

ASCA Talk #018

swimnerd logo

A Physical and Psychological Approach to the Next Level by Frank Busch

ASCA Talk #018

Today's American Swimming Coaches Association talk comes from former University of Arizona Head Coach and USA Swimming National Team Director, Frank Busch. 

Coach Busch goes in depth about…

  • Coaching Techniques, Philosophies, & Style

  • His Training Program & Weekly Training Schedule

  • Preparing Athletes for Big Meets

  • Addressing Issues with Athletes

Coach Busch talks about the importance of understanding and addressing the mental and emotional aspects of athletes’ performances. He shares stories about dealing with swimmer’s anxiety, disappointments, and failures. He recounts instances where verbal intervention, reassurance, and psychological support had significant influences on the outcome. He does this by telling real life stories.

The example of Emily Mason highlights how he had to acknowledge and address the issue of performance anxiety. Ted Carbon’s story emphasizes the benefits of self-confidence, while Amanda Beard’s tale illustrates an intuitive understanding of an athlete’s readiness. In the story of Sara Tolar, Coach Busch acknowledges that missteps on his part negatively affected her performance.

Ultimately, Coach Busch concludes with a call to action for coaches to not avoid addressing the mental and psychological aspects of their athletes’ performance. Open communication, ensuring athlete’s psychological preparedness, and addressing any issues that might hinder optimal performance.

The ASCA Club Success Initiative, designed by legendary coach Frank Busch, is a comprehensive program designed to empower and inspire swim clubs and their coaches to realize their potential and achieve a higher level of success. With a focus on Coach Busch’s four essential pillars, this initiative aims to provide clubs with the knowledge, resources, and support necessary to thrive not only in the world of competitive swimming, but in youth sport landscape. The next workshop is November 4th in Atlanta Georgia. Go to swimmingcoach.org to learn more.

Help preserve our sport's history by becoming a monthly donor to the International Swimming Hall of Fame like us.

Full Transcript:

A Physical and Psychological Approach to the Next Level by Frank Busch (2004)

This transcript is actually too long to send. Sorry about that!