Brandon James
Brandon James
QUICK STATS
- Hometown: Brentwood, CA
- Club Team: Terrapins Swim Team, Walnut Creek Aquabears
- College: Diablo Valley College
- Coach: Rick Millington
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Olympic Trials Qualifier in the 100- and 200-meter backstroke
- National Junior College Record Holder
EXPERIENCE
Brandon James credits swimming with giving him a work ethic that took him far in the sport, as well as in his personal life and career. “Swimming gave me work ethic and the knowledge that I can do hard things. If I can get up and get into a cold pool early in the morning to train, I can get up and get to a meeting or care for those around me.” His swimming accomplishments include a National Junior College record in the 200 yard backstroke and Olympic Trials cuts in the 100- and 200-meter backstroke.
Brandon’s love for coaching is evident at Fitter and Faster Swim Camps. He was inspired by his coaches that were engaged, enthusiastic, and positive. He brings a positive attitude to the pool deck and keeps clinics light and fun. He says, “Kids want to have fun; whether they dream of going to the Olympics or just want to hang out with their friends at swim practice, they all want an element of fun. As coaches, we need to keep the joy in the sport, rather than forcing too much too soon on young athletes.”
While Brandon likes to have fun in swim clinics, he acknowledges that some young swimmers are very serious about the sport and have big goals. He says, “If swimming at elite levels is something you really want to do, stay consistent. Stay consistent with your training and your attention to detail. Don’t worry where you are right now, as progression happens at different stages for different athletes. It’s easier to work through the stressful stuff if you like what you’re doing and remain consistent.”
Brandon shares that swimming gave him clarity that he struggled to find elsewhere. He says, “I have ADHD and anxiety, and swimming calms me. It keeps me in a space where I can focus, and think, and be able to have a bit more clarity. I’ve worked with kids with ADHD, anxiety, and learning disabilities. I like to speak about my experience, and share that I struggled with some of the same issues they may struggle with so that they don’t feel they have to face those struggles alone.”
