Tampon Advice?

Av

Hey guys. I got my period last year and still haven’t used a tampon. I’m a swimmer so I will have to learn how to use one at some point. However, whenever I try to put it in, it kinda hurts and tickles at the same time. My mom says I need to just take a deep breath and push it in but I can’t. Does anyone have any tips or advice? Thanks!