National Squad

Typically swimmers graduating from Regional Squad will move into National squad but some may enter as a result of a direct move from another club, subject to a successful trial. There are 9 training sessions per week (including 3 weekday early mornings). The number of training hours increases to 15 per week. Attitude/mindset and commitment are key to success, swimmers needing to show a strong desire to improve and a very high level of self-motivation, taking total responsibility for their self-development.

Target swimmers:

Swimmers with advanced stroke technique, typically 13 years old and over, although this depends on the individual's level of maturity and physical conditioning.

Squad Criteria:

Follow the links here:

National Squad Criteria

General Squad Criteria

Lead Coach: John Davey

Training Sessions:

* First 15 mins. dry land warm-up

National squad swimmers are split into Junior Nationals and Senior Nationals. The difference is mainly age and ability with both groups following the same training plan but at slightly different intensities.

Training attendance:

Junior Nationals are expected to train 5 out of 6 evenings + 1 morning + the land training session. Senior Nationals are expected to attend 5 evenings, 2 mornings and either land training or S&C sessions. It is acknowledged that morning attendance during the week is not always possible due to school/college/work commitments but swimmers should make every effort to attend during their holiday periods.

Attendance at Competitions:

National squad swimmers are expected to attend time trials, club champs and league competitions (when selected). Also, county, regional, English and British champs upon achieving qualifying times. Open meets should include 'Race to Regionals' plus one other open meet per month. Every effort should be made to attend the squad's targeted meets, as a minimum. Race training is a valuable part of the training programme and should be seen as a skill to aquire. Only by competing regularly are swimmers able to master this important skill.

Register for a Trial:

The Club is offering a free no-obligation trial to anyone interested in joining the Regional 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 Regional Squad are expected to have a pullbuoy, kickboard, fins, hand paddles, a pull band and snorkel. Desirable but not essential is a fitness tracker (watch) or similar device capable of tracking laps and heart rate. National swimmers are expected to wear club branded kit - a swim cap and t-shirt as a minimum. Additional kit, such as a club hoody, is recommended. You are, of course, welcome to browse the club shop for other items. The shop is open several times throughout the year and opening times will be notified by email and via our Facebook group.