Our Squads: A Pathway for Every Swimmer
At Academy Swim Team, we offer a comprehensive squad structure designed to support every swimmer's journey.
From the first fun galas to the national stage, our pathway provides the coaching and training environment to help every athlete achieve their goals.
Our squads are arranged in a progressive pathway, allowing swimmers to develop at their own pace in a supportive and challenging environment.
The Development Pathway
The core journey for our age-group swimmers as they develop their skills and competitive abilities.
Junior Squad
Building excellent technique across all four strokes in a fun, encouraging environment, preparing swimmers for their first taste of competition.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 2 hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: Optional 30 mins (Age 9+)
- 🏆 Level: Team galas & Level 4/3 meets
Development 1
Increasing training commitment and developing the skills and endurance required to compete at County level.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 4 hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: 30 minutes per week
- 🏆 Level: Level 3 meets, aiming for County Times
Development 2
Refining race skills and technique as swimmers begin to consistently achieve County qualifying times.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 5 hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: 30 minutes per week
- 🏆 Level: Somerset County Championships
The Performance Pathway
For swimmers established at County level and committed to reaching the highest levels of the sport.
County Squad
For dedicated swimmers regularly qualifying for and competing at Somerset Counties, aiming for finals and medals.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 8 hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: 45 minutes per week
- 🏆 Level: County Champs & Regional Quals
Regional Squad
For highly committed athletes training towards and competing at the Swim England South West Regional Championships.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 10 hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: 45 minutes per week
- 🏆 Level: SW Regionals & National Quals
Performance Squad
Our top squad for swimmers competing at National Championships, or highly dedicated senior County/Regional swimmers.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 11+ hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: 45 minutes per week
- 🏆 Level: National Championships (Eng/Sco/Wal)
Other Pathways
We believe in providing a place for everyone who loves swimming.
Fitness Squad
For swimmers who love the sport and want to maintain fitness without the pressure of a heavy competition schedule.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 3 hours per week
- 💪 Land Training: Optional 45 mins
- 🏆 Level: Optional meets & team galas
Masters Squad (18+)
Caters for everyone from casual fitness swimming to high-level Masters competition.
- 🏊♀️ Pool Time: 2.5 hours per week
- 🏆 Level: Fitness to International Masters
How Swimmers Progress Through Our Squads
Squad placements are determined by the Head Coach to ensure each swimmer is in the best environment for their development. The Head Coach's decision is final.
When a swimmer is ready to move, the coach will provide a notification slip. Please sign and return this promptly so we can confirm the move and you can amend your standing order for fees.
