Reflections on the 2025 ODAC Training Camp: A Year of Growth and Resilience

As the final day of the ODAC Training Camp draws to a close, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey our senior swimmers have undertaken. This year's camp has been a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication of our athletes, coaches, and supporting community.

Throughout the week, Coach Steve Bialorucki and Coach Craig Bialorucki have masterfully balanced rigorous training with activities designed to foster mental resilience and camaraderie. Lights were out at 10 pm sharp, except on New Year's Eve, as they brought in the new year with a movie. Coaching at ODAC extends beyond physical fitness as they place equal emphasis on mental health. Activities to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain a positive mindset were seamlessly woven into the camp's fabric. The evening team-building activities have not only been about fun but pivotal in creating a sense of community and tradition that grows stronger each year.

The ODAC Training Camp has always been a place where balancing competitive swimming with personal responsibilities is paramount. Encouraging athletes to maintain a healthy athletic work-life balance. Coach Steve emphasized, "We encourage our swimmers to maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring they can pursue their goals without compromising their overall well-being." This philosophy is deeply ingrained in the camp's environment, providing tools for athletes to thrive in and out of the pool.

ODAC's core values—commitment to excellence, integrity, teamwork, passion, and health—are evident in every aspect of the camp. Witnessing our swimmers embody these values has been inspiring, building a legacy of exceptional athletes and remarkable individuals. This year's camp continued to build on this legacy, nurturing an environment of dedication, camaraderie, and holistic development.

One of the highlights of this year's camp was the evening discussion on Culture. Under the guidance of ODAC coaches, the conversation delved into the essence of ODAC's Culture. Senior 1 Head Coach Steve has been coaching for over 40 years and the head coach of ODAC since 1994 and Senior 2 Coach Craig, an Alumni of the ODAC program has been coaching with ODAC for 14 years so carrying on this lagacy of ODAC culture and values is deeply ingrained in both them. This Culture fosters athletic prowess and personal growth, creating a supportive community where athletes can thrive. ODAC's legacy is built on the success and character of its swimmers and their families, inspiring new generations to uphold these core values and contribute to a tradition of excellence, sportsmanship, and volunteerism.

While the camp was intense, it wasn't all work. The team enjoyed catered dinners, ice cream, a movie night to bring in the New Year and a steak dinner on New Year's Day at Logans Roadhouse. Last night, we enjoyed the collegiate basketball game as Liberty took on Western Kentucky. You might have even caught a glimpse of them on the telecast of the game.

These moments of relaxation and enjoyment were well-deserved rewards for their hard work and dedication. The discipline and accountability demonstrated by these young ODAC student-athletes have not gone unnoticed. Many from the Hotel and University pool staff admired the kids' behavior, kindness, and discipline.

As a grand finale for the camp these competitive swimmers were treated to an exhilarating change of pace - trying their hand at high dive and springboard diving. This thrilling reward for their hard work and perseverance in the pool came with some adrenaline rushes that were still running when they got on the bus to ride home!

More clips at the bottom.

As we close another successful year of the Training Camp, we are filled with pride and optimism for the future. Our athletes have grown immensely, not just in their swimming abilities but as individuals who embody the core values of Old Dominion Aquatic Club. Here's to another year of excellence, resilience, and community.

Kudos to everyone involved for making this year's camp an unforgettable experience.

Fun Facts:

"Did you know the team ate about 100 lbs of bananas this week!" There shouldn't be any muscle cramps from this group!

The Liberty University Natatorium is equipped with a Paddock regeneration air filtering system. This Evacuator system provides cleaner air for the swimmers and spectators that you can't get from ceiling filtration. This system runs at the water level around the pool and offers cleaner breathing for athletes and spectators alike. “Liberty was one of the first to invest in this clean air system" according to Daniel Diaz, Liberty University Aquatic staff.

Coach Steve said, "The kids did a tremendous job this week as they put in nearly 100,000 yards in the pool over 17 or 18 practices!” WOW! Enough said.

Team Commentary:

“I wanted to get better this week. It was a fantastic experience as I wanted to bond better with my teammates and lead by example for the younger generation of swimmers. I’ve learned so much about the legacy of the program leaving it in a better place when I leave.” -Forrest Ward

"I just wanted to make it through the week, and when I saw I had a PR in the 200 Fly halfway through, it gave me the confidence that I can reach new standards." -Noah Gibbs

"I knew it would be physically challenging. But I had a strong support system this week. I know it will help me down the road." -Clara Bodniewicz

"I just wanted to work hard and get better. Personal accomplishment! It will help me down the" -Karter Wachs

"I knew it would be a tough week. One practice at a time. My goal was to be a leader for the younger girls coming up. Understanding that working hard will pay off" - Maggie Wright

"This year was different. Leaving a legacy to up-and-coming Senior swimmers was important. Help prepare them through the week. Understanding that hard work provides confidence and will pay off.” - Ryan Ericson

“History tells me that working hard this week is the catalyst for good results this spring. I also wanted to lead by example. See everyone build into strong 2025.” -Zach McNabb

“This year was about building a bond and stranger relationship with the up-and-coming future leaders of this group. Legacy is so important. The Brother and Sisterhood of this group is invaluable in and out of the pool." -Tyler Koepp

“My goal was to bond with the younger kids in the group! Provide the leadership and sense of direction that will continue a sound legacy." -Gabe Nunziata

My reflection:

“It was a great privilege to join the coaching staff and student-athletes this week. As a parent of the program now for 17 years and a believer in its core values, I was honored to be given the freedom on the pool deck during camp and witness the dedication and work ethic of the kids and coaches, helping out with meals and the opportunity to write these blogs to keep our ODAC family informed and hopefully engaged. Seeing the leadership and commentary by these senior swimmers provides me the comfort of the ongoing legacy of the program." -Mike McNabb

Special Thanks to Kalynn Wachs for her ideas and for getting the blogs up and posted on social media. I also want to add a special thank you to Stacey & Vaeh Sherin, and Denise Gideon for coordinating and delivery of the snack bags for the trip. Thank you all for everything!

Blog and photos contributed by Mike McNabb - January 3rd 2025

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