The Coach Development Academy focuses on helping coaches to become more effective teachers and communicators. Whether you’re a new coach with fewer than 5 years of experience or a seasoned coach looking to take your coaching to the next level, the academy provides immersive educational sessions and interactive connection opportunities with fellow members of the USA Swimming community.
A global coaching methodology in all sports from soccer, rugby, and cycling, to swimming and hockey, Coach Development Academies aim to equip, empower, and support coaches who wish to advance their skills in creating great experiences for their athletes. Rooted in the USOPC’s Athlete Development Model, the CDA is a professional opportunity designed for active, hands-on learning across a comprehensive framework of topics, such as designing quality training sessions and harnessing athlete motivation.
The Academy is a 4-day retreat for coaches at La Foret Conference and Retreat Center in Black Forest, Colorado.
Theme- Tools for effective coaching
The Coach Development Academy will focus on helping coaches learn skills to improve their teaching and communication capabilities. Whether you are a lead coach or an assistant coach, the academy will feature educational facilitations that will engage and connect coaches from around the country. Participants will work in age group specific cohorts to apply what they are learning. Join USA Swimming as we discuss some practical ways to ensure that athletes are learning the skills you are teaching. Sessions include:
Location: La Foret Conference and Retreat Center in Black Forest, Colorado
Dates: April 16-19, 2026
Setting: La Foret is a beautiful retreat center tucked amid the trees in Black Forest in northeast Colorado Springs. It has rustic charm and modern amenities. All coaches will stay in the lodge, and sessions and meals will be hosted on-site. As weather allows, coaches will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of this special setting. The rooms in the lodge accommodate three coaches per room. If you prefer to have your own room, you may arrange your own accommodations off site. Staying off site does not reduce the cost of the Coach Development Academy. Meals will still be provided on site.
What to bring: USA Swimming will provide you with a full itinerary and packing list when your registration is confirmed, but beyond that, participants must arrive with a strong desire to learn, grow, and build connections with both the facilitators and other attendees.
Cost to Attend: $425.00
Attendees are responsible for the cost of the academy and the cost of their flight to and from the Colorado Springs Airport. Those driving to the academy will be responsible for any gas and tolls costs.
USA Swimming will cover the costs of all meals, lodging at La Foret, and ground transportation that will take you to and from the Colorado Springs Airport.
PLEASE NOTE If you fly into the Denver Airport, you will be responsible for your own transportation to get to La Foret for the academy.
All coaches who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
Click the link below to register. Payment will be collected at the time of registration. This event will sell out! Get your spot early!