Hills West Waves

2026 Summer Season

The coach-in-training program is for teenage swimmers who are interested in learning how to become a summer league swim coach. This program is open to members of the Hills West Waves who are rising high schoolers or already in high school (post 8th grade and older) as of June 1, 2026. Candidates must be a member of a club swim team, on their high school swim team, or have demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the Waves including having swam for the team for at least three prior summers with consistent participation in the post-season (Prelims, Championships, and All Stars if qualified). These qualifications show a commitment to the sport of swimming, the Team, and a love of the water.

Coaches-in-training will work under the supervision and mentorship of the Coaching Staff and will learn the basic elements and fundamentals of proper stroke technique instruction and positive summer league swim coaching. They will provide support to the Coaching Staff at practices throughout the regular season, assist at meets as needed, and serve as role models for the younger swimmers on the team. Coaches-in-training will also learn how to develop age-appropriate workouts and develop on-deck leadership skills.

The goal of this program is to show our teenagers how much we value their team commitment and to create a pipeline of home grown team leaders who are culture carriers for the Waves! Although not guaranteed, the ideal outcome is to have coaches-in-training become future Waves coaches. Importantly, the benefits and skills that a coach-in-training will accrue from participation in this program include but are not limited to swim instructor training, youth sports coaching, working with young kids, leadership, responsibility, accountability, sportsmanship, and teamwork. This program also provides an avenue for the older swimmers on the team to give back to their younger teammates in a structured environment.

Expectations/Responsibilities of Coaches-in-Training:

• Able to commit to assisting at the first practice session (7:15am – 8:30am) with in-water training for at least three-to-four weeks of the season, which runs May 18 – July 11, 2026. 
  • We will/can work with each candidate prior to the season if candidate knows dates they will be gone for vacation/camps/etc. to set up their schedule accordingly.
• Maintain a certain degree of scheduling flexibility during assigned weeks.
• When not assisting at first practice, show dedication and commitment to Team by swimming in your age group practice during second practice session.
• Help with practice and meet set up and tear down, as needed.
• Assist with younger swimmers at meets and social events, as directed by coaching staff. Duties may include helping with relays in heating, leading cheers, locating swimmers, etc.
• Be available to swim in at least two regular season dual meets and the post-season! including Prelims, Championships, and All Stars if qualify.
• All candidates must have current First Aid/CPR/AED Certification and complete MHSL's mandatory concussion certification. Candidates 15 years and over must have current Lifeguard Certification with CPR/AED/First Aid