2026 Para-Swim Clinic
Location
5500 Burton St Se
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Room Number: Pool
Summary
Description
The MFB WAS Para Swim Clinic offers a focused, supportive introduction to the world of para swimming, designed for athletes who are ready to build skills, confidence, and community. Led by Glen O’Sullivan—an experienced coach known for his technical expertise and athlete‑centered approach—the clinic blends hands‑on pool instruction with an engaging classroom session to help participants deepen their understanding of the sport.
The clinic takes place at the Mary Free Bed YMCA. The swimming portion runs from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., where athletes work directly with Glen on stroke mechanics, body positioning, adaptive techniques, and training fundamentals. Please arrive early to be ready to swim at 9am. From 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., participants transition to a classroom session that explores the broader landscape of para swimming, including classification, competition pathways, and what it means to train as a para athlete.
This clinic is intended for individuals 7 years and older who have a physical disability, are free of cognitive impairments, and are able to swim independently. It’s an ideal opportunity for athletes who want to learn more about the sport, refine their technique, or explore competitive possibilities.
Most importantly, this event serves as the official launch point for our upcoming para‑swim program, which we aim to introduce next season. The clinic gives athletes a first look at the coaching style, training environment, and community we’re building—one rooted in inclusion, growth, and the belief that every swimmer deserves the chance to thrive.
More about Glen O'Sullivan: Glen O’Sullivan is a highly accomplished leader in the para-swimming community, serving in multiple national and technical roles across the sport. He is a US Paralympic National Technical Swim Classifier and US Paralympic National Swim Team Coach, and he served as a U.S. Swim Coach at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. Glen has been deeply involved with Move United and Adaptive Sports USA, holding positions such as Move United Sport Swim Technical and Board of Directors Swim Technical for Adaptive Sports USA. With decades of coaching experience—Glen has led clinics of all sizes and has worked extensively with swimmers at every level, from learn-to-swim to elite competitors. His expertise in classification, technique development, and instructor education has made him a trusted resource for adaptive swimming programs across the country.
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