Objective:
To ascertain whether I could effectively coach up to six athletes for the duration of one weekend in a 'training camp' environment.

The work was undertaken on a voluntary - no fee basis. Sheffield Triathlon Club (TNT) athletes were hand picked to be of a similar ability across all three disciplines to make coaching and training sessions as effective and enjoyable as possible.

The athletes were; Scott Cooper; Neil Evans-Mudie; Jane Gardiner; Kathryn Goldthorpe; Suzanna Jolly (fitness restricted involved); Cath O'Connor.

B&B accommodation was booked and organised for all athletes to stay in the same hotel to develop the team spirit and help with organisation issues.

The weekend sessions included:
• Swim start & finish practice (open water/wetsuit)
• 10k fartlek - cross country / road run
• 10 miles road bike time trial
• Easy group bike ride, 25 miles over Scarborough Tri. Course
• Easy paced run optional 'North Bay Golden Mile' timed speed set
• Educational DVD and discussion group

Team briefings were held each morning and de-brief at the end of the day to give coach and athletes immediate feedback and learning points. Evening meals were taken as a group which added to the social enjoyment of the weekend.

Review and Feedback
The general feedback from the athletes was very positive. The initial objective of the weekend had been achieved.

The sessions were varied, but consideration has to be made for adequate recovery between sessions and the timings of lunch and dinner. The hotel and location was first rate. Further thoughts will be given to an 'Organisational Manager' to be introduced to allow the coach to deliver as effectively as possible. This would allow more time to discuss more technical and skills-based sessions - including Question and Answer session(s).

Matt Norris
(September 06)
Level 2 Triathlon Coach
(currently working on Level 2 British Cycling and Level 3 British Triathlon Coaching Programmes.)