Training with the Pros

Bethany Pendleton, photo courtesy of
UW Athletic Communications

Bethany Pendleton, a 2004 biology graduate of University of Wisconsin (UW), went to the semifinals in the 200 IM, and Dale Rogers, who will graduate this spring in mechanical engineering, swam the 100m and 200m free in semifinals. Both still remember the thrill of competing at the Olympic Trials in Long Beach.

"It was the most fun meet times ten I've ever been to," said Pendleton. "We really got the ball rolling." Rogers agrees the experience was unique.

"This is the fastest meet in the world with the best swimmers in the world," said Rogers. "I went to Trials in 2000, but I was only 16. This time I knew what to expect and it felt more like I belonged."

Dale Rogers, photo courtesy of
UW Athletic Communications

Techniques and Critiques

Now the athletes are sharing their expertise at Pro-Performance Swim Clinics this summer, a series of half-day programs focusing on proper stroke technique and effective drills for teams from youth to Masters.

"It's a chance for kids to see how the pros work on technique," said Rogers. "You can't just learn it once when you're young. You constantly have to work at it."

The athletes worked on it enough to make a big showing during their UW swimming careers. Last year Pendleton set a Big Ten record, which she still holds, in the 400 IM, with a time of 4:08.92. She won the 200 and 400 IM in the Big Ten Swimming and Diving Championships and was voted Big Ten Swimmer of the Year and Big Ten Swimmer of the Meet. She also broke the UW pool record in the 400 IM in 4:18.31.

Rogers and his team finished fourth in the NCAA 200m medley relay last year, with a time of 1:36.82 to earn All-American honors. They took second in the 400m free relay at the Big Ten Championships. He was named Big Ten Swimmer of the Week in November 2001 for taking first in all four events that he entered.

Life In The Fast Lane

Both athletes have completed their eligibility but still train with the UW team and work as assistant coaches to UW Head Coach Eric Hansen. Each has a training regimen and races in various club meets. Rogers will compete in four events in the upcoming World Championship Trials in Indianapolis. He is also considering the 2008 Olympics. Rogers worked on his pacing since he is more of a sprinter and "I needed to pace without killing myself too early," he said.

Pendleton used similar training practices as always, working out twice a day and making every day a new themed workout, like heart rate, individual medleys or stroke techniques.

Advice

Both Rogers and Pendleton suggest swimmers in training practice new stroke techniques, listen to the advice of their coaches, and keep swimming fun.

"It is possible to work hard and have fun in a supportive team atmosphere," Pendleton said. "A good attitude wears off. Stay upbeat."

That positive and supportive attitude will be in evidence at the Pro-Performance Swim Clinics. For more information about how your team can register, contact Dan Meinholz at All-American Aquatics dan@all-americanaquatics.com or call toll free 1.800.910.7946.