Binangonan, Rizal — April 28–30, 2026
In a continued effort to strengthen grassroots swimming development in the country, Swim League Philippines (SLP), in partnership with the Rizal Swimming Coaches and Teachers Association (RSCTA), successfully conducted the Grassroots Development Camp & Mentoring Program: “The Echo” at Aquaventure Swim School at Lake Villa Resort, Binangonan, Rizal.
The three-day program brought together swimming coaches (April 28–30) and swimmers (April 29–30) for an intensive learning and mentoring experience aimed at improving technical knowledge, coaching systems, and athlete development at the grassroots level.
Expert-Led Mentoring
The seminar was led by seasoned swimming coach and international mentor Maria Theresa Espinosa Escobar, also known as “Coach Thess.” Her extensive background includes the following:
- Coaching experience with Old Dominion Aquatic Club (ODAC), Tides Swim Team, and Tidewater Aquatic Club
- Owner of Wahoo Aquatic Club
- Level 5 coach under the American Swim Coaches Association (ASCA)
- Olympic qualifier for the 1984 Summer Olympics
- Medalist in Junior Olympics, Asian Games, and SEA Games
- Multiple Philippine record holder in backstroke, butterfly, freestyle, and individual medley events
- Academic distinction as Summa Cum Laude in her Master’s degree in Healthcare Management
Her presence provided participants with high-level technical insights and real-world coaching applications rooted in international standards.
Strong Participation and Positive Reception
More than 30 swimming coaches from Rizal and nearby provinces attended the first day of the seminar, reflecting strong support and enthusiasm for structured grassroots programs.
Participants described the program as a highly valuable guide, especially for:
- Age group swimmers
- Developing coaches handling grassroots and learn-to-swim programs
Structured Learning Materials
To ensure sustainability and continuity, participants were provided with comprehensive booklet handouts, including:
- T3 Teaching System
- Age Group Stroke Clinic: A High-Performance Technical Framework for Developing Complete Swimmers
- The Steve Bialorucki Grassroots Development Swim Camp 2026
- Old Dominion Aquatic Club Coaching Operation Blueprint – a practical framework for building high-performance swim programs
These materials aim to help coaches enhance their swim school systems, club programs, and learn-to-swim initiatives.
Hosted at a newly built Training Venue
The seminar was graciously hosted by John Paulo de Borja, head coach of Aquaventure Swimming Club, at the newly built 25-meter swimming pool of Aquaventure Swim School. The modern facility provided an ideal environment for both theoretical discussions and in-water demonstrations, further enhancing the learning experience of all participants.
Accessibility and Program Support
In line with its advocacy for inclusivity, the program offered free participation for coaches who brought at least five swimmers, encouraging wider involvement and knowledge sharing within the swimming community.
Advancing Grassroots Swimming in the Philippines
This initiative highlights the commitment of Swim League Philippines to uplift and improve grassroots swimming nationwide. Under the leadership of Fred Galang Ancheta, SLP continues to provide platforms for education, mentorship, and development for both swimmers and coaches.
“The Echo” is more than just a seminar—it is a movement aimed at building a strong foundation for Philippine swimming by empowering those at the grassroots level.
With programs like this, Swim League Philippines reinforces its vision of producing not only competitive swimmers but also knowledgeable and highly capable coaches who will shape the future of the sport.