TC's ten commandments for swim parents

Guidelines for growing champions and keeping the vibe healthy for everyone.

1. Thou shalt trust the process. 

Improvement takes time. Don’t panic if your child doesn’t drop time at every meet. We’re building them to peak at the right time, not just win today. 

2. Thou shalt cheer for effort, not just medals. 

Celebrate grit, sportsmanship, and progress, even if there’s no podium finish. Every race is a step forward. 

3. Thou shalt not compare your child to another swimmer. 

Every swimmer’s journey is different. Fast now doesn’t always mean fast later and vice versa. 

4. Thou shalt let the coaches coach. 

Your role is to support, encourage, and be the safe place; not to analyse technique or offer post-race correction. 

5. Thou shalt not take shouting personally. 

Sometimes we raise our voices; not out of anger, but urgency, safety, or energy. Please don’t bad-mouth coaches to other parents or to your child. Speak to us directly if you’re unsure. We’re always open to a respectful chat. 

6. Thou shalt not live and die by the stopwatch. 

Times are a tool, not a verdict. Some of the most important growth happens in seasons where PBs don’t fall. 

7. Thou shalt not push thy child to train more than they can handle. 

Rest is part of the programme. Overtraining doesn’t build champions — smart training does. 

8. Thou shalt keep thy cool at galas. 

Let the coaches manage the racing. Your job? Bring snacks, a camp chair, and a big smile. Bonus points for good vibes. 

9. Thou shalt praise the person, not the performance. 

Remind your child that they are loved and valued no matter how they swim. Confidence grows when love is unconditional. 

10. Thou shalt remember why we do this. 

Swimming should build character, discipline, friendships and joy. Keep the big picture in mind, and enjoy the ride.