Swim Angelfish on the Road at the 2025 ASCA World Clinic!

WOW! What an adventure we had in Reno at the ASCA World Clinic. Innovation, learning, and connection were the name of the game, and the event didn’t disappoint. We were inspired by the cutting-edge technology shaping the future of aquatics, gained valuable knowledge from top industry experts, and reconnected with friends old and new. Here’s a look at some of the highlights that made this year’s clinic unforgettable.

Innovation

The changing pace of technology has positively impacted the growth opportunities in the aquatic industry. We had the pleasure of working with Athlee and their representative Thomas in the Endless Pool. Our demonstration session focussed on swimmers with the ATNR reflex and we provided expert commentary to show how simple adaptive techniques can be employed to integrate the reflex and strengthen cross-body coordination.

A retained ATNR can interfere with the smooth, opposing movements of the arms and legs required for strokes like freestyle where kicking movements can be affected.

The results were incredible to see side-by-side as we replayed the swimmer before our guidance and how quickly their entire position and swim technique changed for the better!

Thinking about how we could use this technology at our swim schools and within our online training courses has been a source of inspiration, so watch this space!

Another piece of technology that is shaping the future is the Finis Smart Goggle – a training tool – not just an eye protection tool! We were so grateful for a free pair of these amazing goggles, that feature an in-goggle display showing a running clock, lap count, and splits in real-time. The app provides a breakdown of workouts after swimming and it tracks time, distance and stroke rate. We can’t wait to try these out!

Learning

Developing our knowledge and continuing to learn and grow is something we are extremely passionate about. Hearing from all the talented presenters brought us so much joy. That’s why we love attending conference like these.

One stand-out for us was Glenn from Go SwimTV who offers a video platform of swim drills. We were impressed with the variety and number of educational videos in the catalog teaching techniques and fine points to improve every part of a swim stroke.

Learning from Total Aquatic Programming about streamlining aquatic businesses and how to build a pool was mind-blowing. We also learned how Captyn’s operation software can help swim organizations manage customers and day-to-day business needs like scheduling and payments.

To add to the knowledge pool, we contributed a little something ourselves. Our presentation topic focused on how competitive swim coaches as well as learn to swim teachers can help swimmers with ADHD or Learning Differences improve their attention, resulting in improved swim technique. We were blown away by the packed room and the positive feedback we received from the audience.

Connection

Being part of this industry is such a pleasure. Every year we are able to connect with friends old and new at the ASCA Worldwide Clinic. We received the warmest welcome from the ASCA team and want to extend a special shout out to Brian the new director as we are excited about the experience he brings and the impact he will have in the future.

Meeting those of you who have taken our online training at our booth in the exhibition hall was a special highlight for us. Being able to share our resources, courses and advice with new customers was a privilege and we can’t wait to see the ripple effect this will have in helping the special needs community.

Wrapping It Up

Ending the conference with a bang was the ‘Gold Bash’ which set a gold standard for end of conference celebrations! Thanks to the team at ASCA and everyone who attended our presentation or came to see us at our booth – we will treasure these memories!

Ailene Tisser, MA, PT, Founder

Ailene Tisser, a pediatric Physical Therapist with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of Swim Angelfish® and the Swim Whisperers® method, specializes in aquatic therapy and adaptive swim for children with special needs. Trained in NDT, DIR/Floortime, and certified as an Autism Specialist and Primitive Reflex Specialist she fosters water safety, confidence, and independence in her young clients. Ailene is also passionate about educating aquatic professionals, setting a standard of excellence for adaptive aquatics training and professional development.

Cindy Freedman, MOTR, Founder

Cindy, MS, OTR/L is an occupational and recreational therapist with over 30 years of experience specializing in pediatrics and aquatics. Driven by a passion for helping children with special needs reach their full potential, Cindy co-founded Swim Angelfish, an organization dedicated to providing adaptive swim and aquatic therapy services as well as professional training. Her expertise in sensory integration, reflex repatterning, and aquatics, coupled with her love for water and experience as a national champion diver, has enabled her to make a profound impact on the lives of countless children. Cindy is certified as an Autism Specialist by IBCCES, and shows an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children with special needs.