Swimming is a sport that requires its athletes to have extreme discipline and dedication. No one likes jumping into a cold pool before the sun is even up. Or putting their bodies through agonizing pain while staring at a black line for hours. Or having to fight through multiple ear infections, muscle pulls, and don't even get me started on the swimsuit hickeys. Despite all of its challenges, swimming brings people closer together creating a family-like dynamic that no other sport can compete with. Who is the leader of this small family? Your coach. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, they become a part of your family, too. Here are some moments that will make every swimmer say “yup, that’s happened.”

1. The first time your coach really yells at you.

When you are young, it’s basically the scariest thing that has ever happened to you. However, the amount of times your coach throws the F-bomb at you will be endless and eventually, it will become natural for you just to take it.

2. When they put a set on the board and you swear that they are the spawn of Satan.

Another term for a “fun” swim set in a coach’s mind is “torture.” Really nothing “fun” about it.

3. The one time they actually have mercy on you and give you a recovery practice.

At first, you think it’s a joke. You wonder “well, what’s the catch?” If your coach ever gives you a recovery practice, don’t question it. Just take the small sliver of kindness that exists in them and savor every moment.

4. The first time you talk back to your coach.

There are so many times where a swimmer gets so angry at their coach, they simply just cannot hold back their emotions anymore. Sometimes, it feels good just being about to get it out. It’s a frustrating sport, and a lot of coaches understand and will let you vent however much you need to.

5. The talk after a really, really bad race.

The only thing worse than a terrible race, is having to face your coach after said race. Whether you’re bombarded with constructive criticism or given the silent nod of disapproval, it’s never a good moment.

6. The talk after an amazing race.

Touching the wall and seeing a huge time drop, then looking over at your coach celebrating gives you an overwhelming feeling of pride and excitement. It’s such an exhilarating moment that you want to be able to live in forever.

7. The time you cry in front of them.

When you’re able to let the tears loose in front of your coach, that’s when you know you have hit a new level with them. When you’re struggling with something in or out of the pool, your coach will always be there to listen and give you whatever help you need from them.

8. When they say “hop out” after a really tiring set and you know exactly what’s coming.

Whether it be a 50, 100, or 200 race, it is never appreciated and always feels like shit.

9. The time you were close to quitting.

Even the most dedicated and determined swimmers have had this moment of doubt when it comes to swimming. The sport definitely takes a huge toll on you physically, mentally, and emotionally. The moment your coach needs to talk you back into the sport that you love gives you a newfound appreciation for them.

10. When they tell you how proud they are of you.

Whether it be for breaking 30 seconds in a 25 free when you’re five years old, or when you’re graduating at twenty-one, this moment will give you goosebumps and it will be a moment you cherish and share with your coach forever.