SWAMP
(Swimstitute Aquatic Military Prep)
About...
In an effort to support the men and women of the United States Armed Forces, in a way that we are able, the Swimstitute has been working on ways to help those already serving, and those about to dive in.
Water confidence is an essential part of many military careers, in particular special operations.
Although we in no way want to compare what we can do to what you are about to jump into, we believe we can help prepare you.
Whether it is swimming efficiency and/or stamina, combat stroke, finning, mask and snorkel, breath control, treading water, etc., we can help.
We can do intense one on one specific training and coaching, or be a general guide and well directed "kick in the pants".
Finally, if you are looking for an indoor, year round pool you can train in, in any kind of weather, where you are welcomed and applauded for what you are, or are about to accomplish, look no further.
Testimonials...
"The SWAMP program at the Northern California Swimstitute, led by Scott Morris, provides the best aquatic military training for entry into US military Special Operations. Scott has been training competitive swimmers for over 30 years. He will prepare you to swim competitively at your Spec. Ops indoctrination course. In addition, Scott is familiar with U.S. military Spec. Ops water confidence courses. He was able to take an individual with no prior aquatic experience and train me to complete the USAF PAST test 500 meter swim in 8 minutes (Iron man status). In addition, Scott taught me how to complete a 50 meter underwater swim with one breath. Scott’s water confidence and drown-proof training has allowed me to swim effectively, completely tied up with arm and leg restraints. I can even swim with a thirty pound weight belt because of Scott’s training! Scott Morris is an expert at training individuals to have the skills necessary to compete in the indoctrination course as well as dive school. With his excellent training program I am prepared for the USAF Combat Control Special Operations indoctrination course. Without the SWAMP program’s guidance and advanced aquatic skills, your chances of completing your Spec. Ops indoctrination are slim. Get prepared right at the Swimstitute!!"
Johnathan, Combat Control
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"The one thing i definitely was not prepared for in the combat control pipeline was water confidence without a doubt. Before training with Scott I was absolutely terrified of the water. 25 meter underwaters took 100% effort, my 500m time was about a 12 min, and I couldn't tread water to save my life. Finally beginning training under Scott required soul searching because of the intensity. Before entering the cct pipeline I trained under Scott for 7 months.. In that time I've gained huge water confidence. My endurance has got better in all aspects of training not just in the pool. I've shaved about 3 min off my 500m , I've done a 60 meter underwater, learned how to swim in full uniform both surface and subsurface, and i can tread water with no hand for long periods of time. I am in the best shape of my life and I am more conditioned than I ever imagined I could be. Scott has taught me how to stay calm whether its on the surface or subsurface even when my heart rate is all jacked up and he has given me the technique and skill set that will definitely line me up for success in the pipeline. Very thankful I got to train here and bring what I've learned to cct selection. Thank you Scott and all the staff of the Swimstitute."
Mike, Combat Control
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"My name is Steven, but I'm known by Cal. I started attending classes at the Swamp about 2 months ago. Before arriving at the swimstitute I felt confident in my swimming abilities, but felt there was always room for improvement. I had no idea what Scot had in store. The workouts that I was put through tested me not only physically but mentally. I was pushed further than I ever thought I could be well in the pool and swear there were times I could feel myself sweating well in the water! Scott is an absolutely amazing coach. The fact that he puts so much of his personal time to each of his students for no other reason than wanting to see them acomplish thier dreams only speaks to the type of man he is. He will push you, and he will have high expectations, but its all to get the most out of everyone that comes accepting his challange. I feel I have made leaps and bounds since starting to workout with the Swamp. Not only physically but also building the confidence that can only be achieved by getting into the water and pushing your limits. I thank Scott Morris for all his dedication and look forward to seeing you at my PJ Graduation! If anyone is looking to get stronger in the pool, no matter where your at now get to the Swamp!! My only regret is not getting there sooner! Thank you Scott!"
Steven, Pararescue
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It's all about water confidence! Scott does a great job of getting you ready for whatever job you are headed for in the Navy. I'll be heading in as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR). When I first showed up at the door of the Swimstitute I knew how to swim but my underwater confidence was crap! I could barely travel 15 yards under water. It wasn't that I couldn't swim, but I had never really practiced underwater drills. Scott immediately helped me out and we worked hard on getting my underwater confidence improved. After a month at the Swimstitute with Scott kicking my butt up and down the pool I was able to better my 500 yard swim time from 8.02 to 7.16, but what really impressed me is that by the end of my training I could do 10 repeat intervals of 25 meters under water where previously I could only do 10-15 meters!
I have nothing but praise for Scott and the Swimstitue. It's a great facility that Scott uses to help breed future elite sailors. Thank you for your help and I'll keep you in mind along with all the great advice you gave me. Navy AIRR HOOYAH!!!
Miguel Rosales
Ship Date: 07-02-2012
Job: AIRR
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"Water confidence is one of the most important assessment methods used to determine if Combat Rescue Officer and Pararescue candidates possess the ability to prioritize and execute tasks under the application of stress; a trait that directly translates into effective operations throughout the full
spectrum of personnel recovery operations. This characteristic has been put to the test in maritime environments such as the canals and rivers of Iraq during dive searches, entering the open ocean when stranded vessels or injured sailors are in need (Perfect Storm), or in the flooded streets of hurricane ravaged cities (Katrina). But this quality also carries over to other environments that require an operator of equal composure such as climbing into collapsed structures after an earthquake (Haiti), running into an active fire fight to aid wounded soldiers (Black Hawk Down), or jumping at night from 10K ft to rescue the crew of a crashed helicopter in Afghanistan. In short, we want guys that are good in the pool because the odds are they'll be good everywhere else."
Capt Dave DePiazza, Combat Rescue Officer
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"My training at the Swimstitute helped prepare me mentally and physically for a demanding military course in Pararescue. Scott and the other coaches at the Swimstitute were vital in refining my stroke technique and providing challenging yet fun workouts that allowed me to build my confidence in the water and improve my chances at succeeding in one of the hardest courses the DoD has to offer. Without the expert help I received from Scott and the Swimstitute I would not be where I am today. Thanks Scott!"A1C Kelin Munson
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"Scott Morris and the Swimstitute staff have provided outstanding aquatics support to the local military community. They offer effective preparation and conditioning courses for those aspiring toward the Special Operations career fields-where endurance, proficiency, and confidence while in the water are paramount".
Lt Col Nash Cooper California Air National Guard
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In October 2011, I decided to fulfill my dream of becoming a Special Warfare Operator in the US Navy. To do this, I knew that I needed to fully commit myself to training, and needed to find guidance to help me improve to the level required to achieve my goal. I did not have to look any further than Stew Smith's Heroes of Tomorrow and Scott Morris. I came to the Scott and the Swimstitute to prepare me for my swimming and water competency. When I arrived, it became very apparent that I had a long way to go in improving my swim times and overall comfort in the water. Over the following seven months, I trained bi-weekly under Scott's direct supervision. In that time, I not only became comfortable in the water, but my swimming improved to a point where I became a highly competitive candidate for selection for Naval Special Warfare training. As I leave to begin what is arguably the most difficult training program in the United States Military, I feel confident that the training I received from Scott and the rest of the Swimstitute staff has prepared me for what I am about to experience. I am incredibly indebted to the Swimstitute and Heroes of Tomorrow for all of my future successes.Hooyah!
- Alex
Photos

"Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win" - Sun-tzu
