Swimming

Our aim is to foster a love for competitive swimming. We're dedicated to teaching proper technique and maximising each swimmer's potential. As our members progress, we encourage them to represent the club in various competitions, from local galas to national and international events.

We believe in a balanced approach to swimming, prioritising enjoyment and a supportive environment over excessive pressure. By nurturing a positive and injury-free atmosphere, we inspire our swimmers to excel.

Our comprehensive training programs cater to swimmers of all ages, from young beginners to experienced masters. We're committed to helping our members achieve their goals and enjoy the sport for a lifetime.

We welcome talented and enthusiastic swimmers aged 6 and above, organised into four squads. We believe that swimming is a vital life skill, and we're proud to offer opportunities for all to learn and grow.

Junior Squad

Our Junior Squad is perfect for swimmers aged 7 and up who have reached Swim England's Key Stage 7. This program focuses on:

• Technical Development: Refining swimming techniques and learning competitive skills like dives, turns, and finishes.
• Fitness and Versatility: Building overall fitness and supporting other aquatic sports like water polo and triathlons.

Competitive Opportunities

We encourage all Junior Squad members to participate in competitions. We offer:

• Introductory Galas: Four times a year, these galas provide a fun and friendly environment to learn racing skills.
• Progression Paths:
  • Junior Performance Squad: This is for highly motivated swimmers seeking advanced training and competition.
  • Senior Squad: A balanced option for 12-13-year-olds who want to improve their swimming without the intense demands of performance squads.

Selection Criteria

Selection for Junior Performance Squad is based on gala times and a strong training attitude.

Junior Performance Squad

Our Junior Performance Squad is designed for our most talented young swimmers, typically aged 9-12. Selection is based on coach recommendation and strong potential.

Commitment and Expectations:

• Training: At least 3 training sessions per week.
• Competition: Active participation in:
  • Junior Galas
  • Club Championships
  • Tony Holmes Open Meet
  • Arena League
  • County Championships (qualification required)

Progression and Development:

• Age 11: Expected to qualify for County Championships.
• Age 12-13: Transition to Senior Performance Squad, subject to meeting criteria and physical readiness.
• Alternative Path: For those not meeting Senior Performance criteria, progression to Senior Squad, allowing continued training and competition at a less intense level, often including County-level events.

We prioritise a gradual and sustainable approach to training, aiming to prevent overtraining and injuries.

Senior Squad

Our Senior Squad is designed for talented swimmers who are keen to compete and train but don't quite meet the criteria for our intensive Senior Performance Squad. Swimmers typically transition to this squad between the ages of 12 and 13, depending on their individual abilities and maturity level.

Training and Competition:

• Balanced Approach: This squad offers a balanced approach to swimming, allowing athletes to compete in a range of events and improve their best times.
• County-Level Potential: Many swimmers in this squad achieve County qualification times.
• Flexibility: The Senior Squad is ideal for swimmers who want to balance swimming with other sports like triathlon or water polo.

Progression:

• Senior Performance Squad: Talented swimmers who meet the specific criteria may progress to the Senior Performance Squad.
• Masters Swimming: As swimmers reach 17 years old, they can start attending selected Masters sessions, allowing them to continue their swimming journey in a more flexible format.

Senior Performance Squad

Our Senior Performance Squad is a high-achieving group of swimmers dedicated to excellence. Members of this squad consistently achieve County times, win medals, and compete at Regional Championships, with many qualifying for National Championships.

Commitment and Expectations:

• High Performance: A strong commitment to training and racing progression is essential.
• Team Spirit: Enjoy a vibrant team culture, including annual foreign training camps.

Selection and Progression:

• Coach Recommendation: Selection is based on coach recommendation and meeting specific criteria.
• Transition Period: Swimmers may undergo a transition or trial period before joining the squad.
• Flexibility: Swimmers who find the demands of the Senior Performance Squad too challenging may transition to the Senior Squad.
• Masters Swimming: As swimmers reach 17 years old, they may start attending Masters sessions, allowing them to continue their swimming journey in a more flexible format.