Dear Sam,

I am currently in a swim program, and I have many friends. As time goes on all of my friends and I will soon be in teen years, and it has caught my attention that everyone is getting faster, and I am still the same speed. I feel as though my coach does not notice me because a new coach is helping out. What should I do? What if everyone leaves me because they are so fast?

From: swimmer_held_back

Dear swimmer_held_back,

It’s ok if you feel as though you’re falling short of your speed. Just try your best and stick with your friends. Push yourself and don’t be afraid of telling your coach how you feel. It’s your coach’s job to listen to your problems and help support you as you find ways to solve them.  

From, Sam