To better support our swimmers’ development and goals, we’ve updated our squad structures and pathways starting July 2025.
These changes provide clearer progression routes, stronger coaching alignment, and a positive environment tailored to all skill levels.
While squad names and structures have evolved, session times remain largely unchanged, and coaches have communicated directly with families most affected.
New Squad Structure: Built for Growth & Goals
Our squads are organised into four main groups, designed to support swimmers at different stages of their journey:
Competitive – Junior, Age Group and Open and Recreational – SwimFit.
The Competitive programmes are designed to support swimmers based on their ability, performance, and stage of development. Swimmers move through the squad levels as they progress, with the aim of achieving their goals and building a lasting enjoyment of the sport. As part of this pathway, swimmers are assessed each term to ensure they’re in the squad that best suits their current performance and potential.
The Recreational SwimFit programme is ideal for swimmers who enjoy training recreationally or use swimming to support other sports, such as water polo.
Across all programmes, we take pride in our dedicated coaching team, whose experience, technical knowledge, and supportive approach help every swimmer grow, improve, and reach their full potential.
1. Juniors (12 years & under)
A refreshed progression pathway with four levels:
Race Ready – beginners new to racing
Grey – formerly Juniors
White – formerly Bronze
Black – formerly Silver
2. Age Group (13 years & over)
Now with three levels, using the same Grey–White–Black colours as Juniors:
Grey and White – what was Platinum is now split across these two squads – making room for more focused coaching and progression
Black – Top Age Group Athletes from previous Performance Squad
3. Open
Our most senior competitive squad is now called the Gold Squad, made up of swimmers from the former Performance Squad.
With the introduction of this squad, we’re excited to offer a clear path for 18+ athletes to continue training, progressing, and competing within the club — without needing to move. It reflects our commitment to supporting swimmers for the long term.
4. Recreation / Water Sports
The SwimFit Squad supports swimmers training for fitness, enjoyment, or cross-training for sports like water polo. This squad sits outside the competitive pathway but remains focused on skill and fitness development.
Squad Entry & Progression
The following guidelines help coaches determine appropriate entry levels for new swimmers and assess progression for current members. These are intended as a guide only; exceptions may apply after coach review.
Capacity Considerations: Swimmers may only join a squad if lane space is available without compromising existing members’ training.
Individual Assessments: Meeting minimum squad standards does not guarantee placement. Coaches consider:
– Swimming ability and skills
– Fitness and potential
– Readiness for squad-specific training sets
– Race times, where relevant
Behavioural & Commitment Expectations: Swimmers are also expected to demonstrate:
– Discipline and a positive attitude
– Consistent attendance at training sessions and key competitions
Swimmers who do not meet these standards may be moved to a different squad or have their membership reviewed in line with Club policies.
Additional Support
Level of entry and movement between squads will be determined by coaches.
Squad Managers assist our coaches and committee in the day-to-day running and management of the squads. Please find the contact information for Squad Managers at this link.