This is the first level of the competitive squads. The entry criterion for this squad, subject to space availability, is generally the completion of Stage 8 in the NPTS.

Age Group: generally 8 to 10 years

This squad includes the following work and expectations:

• Stroke technique on all 4 strokes
• Stroke drill progressions on all 4 strokes
• Endurance and speed training
• Turns, starts and finishes for all 4 strokes
• Participate in club time trials
• Introduction to low-level competition

The swimmer to coach ratios will not exceed 20:1

This is the second level of the competitive squads. The entry criterion for this squad, subject to space availability, is generally:

• 200m Freestyle with tumble turns and bilateral breathing
• 200m Backstroke with tumble turns and a bent arm pulling action
• 200m Breaststroke with correct underwater pullouts
• 100m IM with turns

 Age Group: generally 8 to 12 years

This squad includes the following work and expectations:

• Develop and improve stroke technique on all 4 strokes
• Perfect starts, turns and finishes on all 4 strokes.
• Increase the distance covered in training sessions to improve endurance and complete well-balanced training programs
• Turns, starts and finishes for all 4 strokes
• Participate in club time trials
• Participate in local meets

Squad members should be able to cover 2,500m and 3,000m during a 1hr and 30mins session.

The swimmer to coach ratios will not exceed 20:1

This is the third level of the competitive squads. The entry criterion for this squad, subject to space availability, is generally:

• Attendance at 80% of available sessions at Silver and Upper Silver level
• Be confident of swimming 200m IM in competition
• Looking to achieve a County Qualifying Time

Age group: generally 11 years and older.

This squad includes the following work and expectations:

• More complex drill progressions
• Introduction to land training session and stretching exercises
• Attendance at one land training session
• Attendance at 85% of available sessions
• Attainment of a County Qualifying ime

The swimmer to coach ratios will not exceed 30:1

This is the top level of the competitive squads. The entry criterion for this squad, subject to space availability, is generally:

• Attendance at 85% of available sessions at Gold squad level
• A positive approach and attitude demonstrated at Gold squad level
• Minimum of 2 County Qualifying Times
• Looking to achieve Regional and National Qualifying Times

Age group: generally 11 years and older

This squad includes the following work and expectations:

• More complex drill progressions
• Progression of endurance training
• Continuation of land training program and stretching exercises
• Log book maintenance
• Totally committed athlete who loves the sport and seeks the challenge of competition

The swimmer to coach ratios will not exceed 30:1

This is the top level of the competitive squads. The entry criterion for this squad, subject to space availability, is generally:

• Attendance at 85% of available sessions at Gold squad level
• A positive approach and attitude demonstrated at Gold squad level
• Minimum of 2 County Qualifying Times
• Looking to achieve Regional and National Qualifying Times

Age group: generally 11 years and older

This squad includes the following work and expectations:

• More complex drill progressions
• Progression of endurance training
• Continuation of land training program and stretching exercises
• Log book maintenance
• Totally committed athlete who loves the sport and seeks the challenge of competition

The swimmer to coach ratios will not exceed 30:1