Hi Alyssa, You have made a great start this year. i see you are a dedicated athlete and train hard. All are the keys to success. I only have one word of caution . Early success brings on big expectations and these can be a killer. If you have a "bad" meet because you are training thru the smaller competitions you'll get "What's wrong ??? " "No record today ??? . You must relax and follow your plan. I have coached young athletes that were very good very young and i have seen these unrealistic expectation literally destroy there throwing careers and effect their entire life. my best advice "LET IT HAPPEN " relax and train . It will happen!!!
If not next week or next month but it will happen. You haven't hit a plateau but i believe they will happen. The way to break thru these flat periods is to keep training and know you "WILL" break thru. And usually by a good amount. i have found that rest is as important as training. Your body must adjust to new strength levels and growth that a young athlete will have. Your coach is right on when he said improvement may now come in smaller jumps. But be assured they will come. Good luck in the coming season! Patrick Wyatt