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Name: Snow Plow

Core Skill

The Snow Plow game focuses on developing and refining the swimmer’s kicking technique, body position in the water, and teamwork. This game emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong, steady kick and proper body alignment while managing to move objects through the water. It also fosters communication and cooperation among swimmers as they work together to achieve a common goal.

Who

This game is suitable for Level 3, Level 4, and Developmental swimmers. It can also be adapted for Level 2 swimmers if played between two platforms. The game requires swimmers to have a basic understanding of kicking techniques and the ability to hold a kickboard vertically in the water.

What

In this challenge, the instructor dumps as many floating toys, kickboards, and noodles into the water between the wall and the flags as possible. Swimmers must then use a kickboard held vertically in the water in Position 11 to “plow the snow” from the flags to the wall or into a basket. The game can be played with one swimmer acting as the plow at a time, or with two swimmers plowing simultaneously, provided they do not collide or pull each other down. The objective is to push all the toys into a designated corner or basket held by another class member, and then reset so everyone gets a turn.

How

1. Preparation: The instructor scatters floating toys, kickboards, and noodles between the wall and the flags in the pool.
2. Positioning: Swimmers hold a kickboard vertically in the water in Position 11, ready to start kicking.
3. Plowing: One or two swimmers at a time kick to push the toys toward the wall or into a basket held by another class member.
4. Rotation: After completing their turn, swimmers rotate so that everyone gets a chance to plow.
5. Variation: The game can be played in the shallow end or in deeper water if swimmers are comfortable treading water or kicking without support. For Level 2 swimmers, the game can be adapted by playing between two platforms.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

• Coordination: Ensuring that swimmers do not collide or interfere with each other, especially when two swimmers are plowing simultaneously.
• Control: Helping swimmers maintain control of their kickboards and body position while kicking.
• Comfort Level: Monitoring swimmers’ comfort levels in deeper water, especially if they are not yet proficient at treading water or kicking without support.
• Fair Turn-taking: Ensuring that all swimmers get an equal opportunity to participate and that no one is left out.
• Adaptation: Adjusting the game for different skill levels, particularly for Level 2 swimmers who may require more support and structure.