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"Don't Finish The Athlete" is an episode of The Swim Brief. Runtime 47 min. Published September 28, 2026. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.
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What is a developmental coach actually trying to finish?
Longhorn Aquatics head coach Mike Laitala joins Chris DeSantis to discuss why producing fast young swimmers is not the same as preparing athletes for long-term success. They explore the risks of early specialization, the difference between developing strength and simply “lifting,” and why athletes can advance beyond their own developmental awareness.
Mike also explains how he prepares swimmers for college, another coach, and eventually the ability to direct their own careers. The goal isn’t to exhaust every tool available—it’s to build the foundation athletes will need for whatever comes next.
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