Regional Squad

Typically swimmers graduating from Development Squad will move into Regional squad but some may enter as a result of a direct move from another club, subject to a successful trial. There are 5 training sessions per week but the number of training hours increases to 10 per week, every session being 2 hours duration. Developing competition skills along with building knowledge of factors affecting healthy mind and body are the focus for Regional swimmers.

Target swimmers:

Those with effective stroke technique and effective turns in all 4 strokes and IM.

Squad Criteria:

Follow the links here:

Regional Squad Criteria

General Squad Criteria

Lead Coach: Tom Bloor

Training Sessions:

Training attendance:

Regional squad swimmers are expected to train a minimum of 4 sessions out of 5 on a regular basis, plus land training. Competition for a place in National squad is high and requires a high level of commitment, which should be demonstrated by regular attendance in Regional squad. It is acknowledged that school activities and other commitments will occasionally result in absence and this will not impede your chances of being considered for a move, as long as attendance does not consistently fall below expectations. All Regional squad swimmers are expected to attend land training on a Saturday morning.

Attendance at Competitions:

In addition to the usual in-house time trials and club champs plus selection for leagues, Regional squad swimmers are expected to be regular attendees at open meets, including our own 'Yule in the Pool' and 'Race to Regionals'. Swimmers are expected to attend a further 6 open meets throughout the year, plus county champs and regional champs, where QTs are achieved. As a minimum, Regional squad swimmers must attend their squad's 'targeted' meets throughout the year. 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 and hand paddles which must be brought to every training session. It's helpful to carry these in a mesh bag. A snorkel may also be helpful but not essential. When competing, Regional 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.