Squad Structure and Movement

DASC is organised into the following squads

• Club Preparation
• Development 1
• Training Skills
• Competition Skills
• Academies

Requirements on the following pages detail the expectations for each squad. Swimmers will be assessed by the Swim Co-Ordinator and Lead for that Squad at the end of each school period (half term). Moves will not be considered between times in order to encourage stability.

All new club swimmers will complete an assessment period of no less than 4 calendar months in Club Preparation before being allocated a training schedule (with the exception of swimmers relocating to the Island and demonstrating competitive experience).

Meeting the requirements does not guarantee a squad move and all moves are at the discretion of the Head Coach. Squad moves and feedback will be communicated to swimmers and parents/guardians. Moves are subject to available space in the squad.  Everyone will be assessed and if a swimmer no longer meets the requirements of their current squad, they may be moved down to a previous squad.

 All moves are expected to be supported by demonstration of promptness on poolside, behaviours in line with the club’s Code of Conduct, ability to take appropriate direction and a positive attitude to training.

The allocated lead for each squad has the autonomy to place swimmers within the lanes available to them (see below table) on the given training night and depending on the set.

Where suggested kit is listed, this is only a recommendation, and nothing is mandatory other than appropriate swimwear and goggles. Should this present a problem in terms of financial hardship, please speak to any trusted member of the Committee.

For swimmers with an identified physical or learning disability, an individual plan will be agreed to ensure that those needs do not alter their ability to progress through the pathway.