ASCA 2026 Clinic: Last Chance for Certification Before the Overhaul

One week from now, hundreds of swim coaches will head to Orlando for the ASCA World Clinic 2026. But this year, the event is more than an annual conference. It is the last chance to receive ASCA certification before the system undergoes a complete redesign on November 2. Against this backdrop, the three-hour small-group sessions with Herbie Behm and Gregg Troy have become the center of attention – not only because of the two coaches' reputations, but because they redefine how the coaching community accesses knowledge. ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Association) is the most prestigious coaching certification body in the United States. This year's clinic runs from September 9 to 12 at the Rosen Centre Hotel, with the theme “Grassroots to Podium: It Starts With Us.” Over 50 speakers will present in more than 60 sessions, covering everything from fundamental technique to elite strategy. The event is presented by Fitter & Faster Swim Camps, an organization specializing in youth swim camps, highlighting the strong link between grassroots development and high performance. The highlight of the event is the three-hour small-group sessions. Unlike traditional 60-minute lectures in front of hundreds, these sessions limit attendance to maintain interactivity. Participants can ask questions, explore methodologies, and dive deep into the coaches' thinking. Herbie Behm, an experienced coach at Bolles School (Jacksonville, Florida), will share his coaching philosophy and training planning. He is known for developing athletes from the grassroots level. Gregg Troy, former head coach of the 2026 US Olympic team who mentored Ryan Lochte, Caeleb Dressel, and Katie Ledecky, will provide insights into building elite programs. This combination covers the entire spectrum: from grassroots to podium, exactly matching the clinic theme. From a data perspective, the ASCA clinic is one of the largest coaching education events in the world. With over 50 speakers and 60 sessions, it offers high knowledge density over four days. The three-hour small-group sessions are designed as a premium product, where attendees not only listen but also engage. This is especially important in a context where traditional conferences are often criticized for lacking interactive depth. Behm and Troy represent two generations and two fields: one specializes in youth development, the other in elite performance. Having them together in a single small-group session is a rare opportunity. However, a contrarian perspective is necessary. Despite the attractive marketing – “invaluable,” “the most valuable three hours” – the article provides no detailed curriculum for the small-group sessions, no testimonials from past attendees, and no pricing information. The “last chance” urgency may be a revenue tactic rather than a genuine need. The new certification system has not been disclosed in detail: current coaches do not know if their old certifications will be grandfathered or if they will face additional fees. This creates a transparency gap. Coaches should consider: does the value of the small-group session justify the cost when no verified information is available? Nevertheless, the strategic importance of the event cannot be denied. ASCA is reshaping its certification system, emphasizing a greater role for professional development. This could raise professional standards for the entire US swim coaching industry. Coaches who attend the clinic and receive certification before November 2 will have a head start – they will not be disrupted by the change, and they will have direct access to top minds. The small-group session with Behm and Troy could be a worthwhile investment if the content truly delivers as promised. The question remains: Is this urgency real or just a gimmick? Only time and transparency from ASCA will tell. But for coaches seeking to elevate their craft, this opportunity should not be missed. Check the curriculum carefully, contact the organizers directly, and make an informed decision. Because after November 2, the game will change.