Extra protein for teenage swimmer

Question
My 14 year old son is in his second season swimming with our local club (he also swam with the local High School team this fall).  He's put on a lot of muscle in the last year; his swimming pictures this year are markedly different than last year, although he remains very slender.  His body building/cross country running cousin recommended that he start drinking a protein supplement after his workouts.  When I suggested this to my husband, my husband felt like he shouldn't need anything else if he's consuming a balanced diet.  I do try to feed my son regularly, and well, but he also seems to be eating all the time!  Would it help my son to take a protein supplement on a regular basis?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Susan--
I am in agreement with your husband.  At 14, your son has a lot of growing to do in the next few years and a protein supplement isn't going to help anything at this point.  His cousin shouldn't be taking one either, muscles develop fine without one and as a cross country runner, being slim is a better option.  As for your son, as long as he is eating properly(balanced diet), he will develop fine.  Large muscles tend to be a detriment to swimmers, being flexible is more important.  He can develop his muscles adequately by starting a weight lifting program.  The swimmers you see at the top colleges and the olympics got that way by training and lifting.
Hope this helps,
George