Birthday: May 19, 1997
Height: 5’7”
Hometown: Holland, MI
School: University of Arizona (2 years) & University of Michigan (2 years)
NCAA Qualifier (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019)
Four-time CSCAA All-American
All-Big Ten (Second Team)
PAC 12 All-Academic Team
Swimmers of all ages search high and low for that magic stroke–the slight adjustment in head position, the perfect breathing pattern, the precise moment to initiate the catch. It’s as if elite swimmers are privy to some secret knowledge that the rest of us have yet to unearth, and swimming is merely a journey to perfect form.
Not so, says Taylor Garcia.
A true believer in the importance of the individual, Taylor recognizes that every athlete possesses unique needs. These needs translate into equally unique techniques, which vary in their efficiency depending on the swimmer.
“My experiences coaching younger age-group kids as well as college-aged athletes has helped me diversify my coaching approaches to meet the needs of any athlete. It has been such a gift to compete at the highest level throughout my high school and collegiate career. My experiences from different teams across the country has taught me what it means to be a team player and a leader in a multitude of ways.”
Taylor revisits her own experiences in the sport to inform her coaching. Because she isn’t far removed from competing, Taylor possesses a special sense of empathy for participants, understanding the teacher’s role in fostering a “coachable” athlete.
“These experiences have helped me become a better coach by understanding that no two athletes are the same. Each athlete has different intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, and therefore need different coaching style approaches.”
This flexibility is precisely what makes Taylor an ideal clinician. Adjusting her methods (and even her critiques) according to each athlete’s individual strengths, Taylor works tirelessly to offer participants a highly personalized experience; yet, her overall philosophy is truly one-size-fits-all:
“These experiences have also shaped me into a very positive and uplifting coach. I love encouraging my swimmers to follow their dreams and know that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.”
Eager to become part of the “swim clinic revolution,” Taylor aims to enhance the Fitter and Faster experience with her unique set of skills. Claiming the company provides “the perfect opportunity for swimmers who are eager to grow as competitors and leaders,” Taylor understands the importance of crafting well-rounded athletes and teammates. With Taylor, swimmers will find an upbeat mentor who truly invests in them as individuals.
“I love seeing young athletes accomplish their goals throughout the year. It is always so exciting helping someone make small changes to improve overall performance. I learn so much from the athletes I coach, and I try to instill my love for the sport in them. When a young athlete transitions from being a body in the water going through the motions to be a student of the sport, I get super stoked!”
This “student of the sport” mentality is at the heart of Fitter and Faster swim clinics, and it is the true force behind Taylor’s teaching. Not only will participants feel new and efficient techniques, but they will also learn to form an invaluable mind-body connection, understanding how to think about swimming to elevate their level of training.
Are you ready to take the next step? Sign up for a clinic with Taylor today!