Development Squad

Typically swimmers graduating from Junior Squad will move into our Development squad but some may enter as a result of a direct move from another club, subject to a successful trial. There are 4 training sessions per week but the number of training hours available doubles as the focus moves to building endurance, alongside advanced skills development. Land training is introduced to complement the swim programme and help the athlete build aerobic capacity, strength and endurance.

Target swimmers:

Typically, swimmers will be competent in all 4 strokes and will have a good level of skills upon which to build endurance.

Squad Criteria:

Follow the links here:

Development Squad Criteria

General Squad Criteria

Lead Coach: Roisin (Roz) Davies

Training Sessions:

The focus of the sessions is to learn how to train with longer sets and further skills refinement. In addition, you will gain a basic knowledge of factors that affect your swim performance, such as nutrition & hydration and basic aerobic conditioning. Training will take place in the school pool and in Jubilee 2 pool. Our coaches are also fully qualified lifeguards. Session duration starts to build and 2-hour sessions are introduced for the first time.

Training attendance:

Development squad is a key transition squad from emphasis on technical stroke work to endurance building. You are expected to attend at least 3 sessions a week, one of which to be a 2 hour weekend session as these provide valuable endurance training in preparation for the next move to Regional squad, where all sessions are 2-hours duration. Land training is introduced for the first time and you are expected to attend the weekly 1-hour session.

Attendance at Competitions:

Swimmers in Development squad are expected to enter all in-house competitions (time trials and club champs), be available for selection to local leagues, attend our annual open meet 'Yule in the Pool' in December, as well as 4 other open meets (as advised by the coach) over the course of a year. Swimmers achieving qualification times for Staffs County Champs are expected to compete; Staffs Champs usually takes place over 2 weekends in February each year.

Register for a Trial:

The Club is offering a free no-obligation trial to anyone interested in joining the Development squad. Trials will take place by arrangement. If you are interested in registering your child for a trial, please complete the Trial Registration Form. The trial is a chance to see if you might enjoy club swimming, as well as providing the coaches with a chance to check if you are at the appropriate level to join the squad. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

Kit and Equipment Required:

Swimmers in Development Squad are expected to have a pullbuoy and kickboard and training fins (short blade) which must be brought to every training session. It's helpful to carry these in a mesh bag. Development swimmers are not expected to buy a full club branded kit but you are expected to wear a club swim cap and t-shirt when taking part in competitions. You are, of course, welcome to browse the club shop for other items, if desired. The shop is open several times throughout the year and opening times will be notified by email and via our Facebook group.