Personal Journey
There is no single path for a T21 Swim Warrior. For some, the goal is compete at a local swim meet. Click here for more on the benefits of competitive swimming.
For others, the goal is to become accomplished enough to be selected to the USA Down Syndrome National Swim Team. Some swimmers start very young, as a way to be safe around water. Others take up swimming as teenagers, but have a unique aptitude for the sport. Still others are born into a family of swimmers.
USADSS is available as a resource to families, coaches and supporters to help T21 Swim Warriors reach the personal goals they define.
Technique is Important
It is important to have high expectations when learning to swim. New swimmers need to find Water Safety Instructors who hold them accountable to learning proper technique, and eventually learning all 4 strokes. Like any swimmer, there may be 1 or 2 strokes that work better for an individual. Please go to our Swimming in the USA page, to learn more.
Where the journey begins
T21 Swim Warriors are encouraged to find a local swim team with a coach that is willing to creatively include.
1: Find a USA Swimming Club. (Typically for swimmers from 8-18 years, but several T21 Swim Warriors over 18 continue to train with their local USA Swimming club.
2: Find a US Masters Club. (> 18 yrs)
Inclusion on a swim team can sometimes be messy. USADSS wants to be part of the solution. 3 ways USADSS supports our T21 Swim Warriors.
1: Tech advice for families and coaches.
2: A Coaches Network to help with problem solving.
3: Families can contact USADSS at anytime for support along the journey.
National Training Camp
October 2023 was our 2nd National Training Camp in Orlando, Florida. The top athletes with Down syndrome from around the USA were invited, and a total of 55 came! The event was spectacular as athletes were challenged in and out of the pool with incredible support from 11 experienced volunteer coaches.
International Championships
The common thread for every successful national team member is that someone believed in them enough to teach them proper technique, and to include them on a swim team with neuro-typical peers.
There are many swimmers with Down syndrome who could be successful at the elite level. Our mission is to bring them together into a powerful team that can grow to compete with other, more established national teams.
T21 Swim Warrior Paths
It’s Never Too Late
Some of our swimmers have been very successful even when they got a late start! Click here to see a short video about Joe and how his late start to swimming did not hold him back!
Warrior’s Path to Gold
Click here to see more about Joey’s amazing experience at the 2018 World Championship.
Health Challenges
Click here to learn more about how Lauren overcame significant health challenges on her way to the podium and Americas Region Records.
Representing USA means I’m doing something big
Mary continues to train hard, motivated by the opportunity to represent her local community and the USA.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
