Proceedings of the XLV Technical and Scientific Congress of the Portuguese Association of Swimming Technicians and XVI Iberic Swimming Congress

Abstract

APTN's annual congress is clear evidence of its multidimensional role, both in favour of the sporting development of Portuguese swimming and in promoting the social relevance of swimming coaches. Anyone who is a sports professional knows and recognises the importance of practice based on scientific evidence – a commitment that allows us to make coherent, safe and responsible decisions. In fact, as we have already mentioned in other contexts, science will always need utility, just as practice will always need foundation and relevant previous experiences. This congress, year after year, seeks precisely this interchange between theory and practice, which I believe is the key to developing professional competence.

Viana do Castelo welcomed us this year, a city that pulses with art, heritage, and a vast sporting tradition. As European City of Sports 2023 (ACES Europe and ACES Portugal), Viana do Castelo City Council was co-promoter of this 46th edition of the APTN congress, which this year takes on an Iberian dimension through the partnership with the Asociación Española de Técnicos Swimming Pool - AETN. As always, we count on the institutional support of many other entities, namely the Portuguese Swimming Federation, the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth, the Confederation of Coaches of Portugal and the Minho Swimming Association.

The program sought to be eclectic and, at the same time, incisive about the main issues that concern our aquatic community. We had several world-class coaches in different aquatic disciplines, recognised scientists, and sports directors with experience and best practices to share. We added to this the usual free oral communication session and, for the first time, a fair of products and equipment for swimming pools. It will also be an opportunity to meet and see many colleagues. In this corporate environment, we recognise the merit of those who seek excellence every day.