COUNTY DEVELOPMET SQUAD

County Development Squad Overview

The County Development Squad is designed for swimmers who are committed to advancing their competitive skills, fitness, and racing techniques, with a focus on achieving county-level qualifying times. This squad provides structured training, incorporating both pool and land-based sessions to ensure comprehensive development. Swimmers in this squad are working towards refining their technique, improving speed, and preparing for higher levels of competition.

Monthly Fee: £50.00 (paid via Direct Debit)

County Development Squad Criteria

• Minimum Attendance:
  Swimmers in the County Development Squad are required to attend a minimum of 4 pool sessions per week, as well as land training sessions to build strength and endurance.
  • Progression to County Age Group Squad: Swimmers aiming to move into the County Age Group Squad must demonstrate attendance at 5 sessions per week, with at least one session being a weekday morning. Consistent commitment to training is crucial for progression.
• Required Equipment:
  • Kickboard, Pull Buoy, Snorkel, and Fins are essential for all training sessions to facilitate specific drills and enhance stroke technique.
  • Swimmers must bring a 1L water bottle to each session to stay hydrated and perform at their best.

County Development Squad Aims

Swimmers in the County Development Squad will focus on key objectives that support their development and readiness for county-level competition:

• Achieving Middlesex County Qualifying Times:
  Swimmers will work towards achieving Middlesex County Qualifying Times (where applicable), a critical goal that demonstrates readiness for higher competition.
• Building Fitness and Speed:
  Training sessions will incorporate fitness and speed progression sets, focusing on improving endurance, race pace, and overall swimming speed.
• Refining Starts, Turns, and Underwater Phases:
  Special attention will be given to starts and turns, with a focus on mastering the underwater phase for each stroke, a crucial element of competitive swimming success.
• Enhancing Stroke Technique:
  Swimmers will continue to develop and refine their technique across all four competitive strokes—Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, and Butterfly. The emphasis will be on efficiency, proper form, and reducing drag in the water.
• Competition Participation:
  Swimmers are expected to compete in a minimum of 4 competitions per season, with at least one competition being the Borough of Harrow Club Championships. Regular competition participation helps swimmers apply their training in race conditions and track their progress.

Progression Path

Once swimmers have achieved the necessary skill levels, fitness, and competition results, they will be eligible to progress to the County Age Group Squad. Progression is based on attendance, performance, and meeting the training requirements for the higher squad.

• Progression Criteria: Swimmers must consistently meet the minimum training attendance (including morning sessions) and show progress in competition performance.
• Accountability: Swimmers who fail to meet the minimum attendance requirements or do not participate in the required number of competitions may be reassigned to either the Club Squad or Youth Development Squad, depending on their age and training standards.

Why Join the County Development Squad?

The County Development Squad is the perfect stepping stone for swimmers who are serious about improving their competitive skills and reaching the next level. With a balanced focus on stroke refinement, fitness development, and race preparedness, swimmers in this squad will gain the tools they need to succeed in county-level competitions and beyond.

This squad provides a supportive yet challenging environment, ensuring that each swimmer reaches their full potential while developing the discipline and commitment needed for future success.

Training Schedule

For detailed training times and sessions, please refer to the Squad Timetable available on the club’s website.

What to Bring to Each Session

To be fully prepared for training sessions, swimmers must bring the following equipment:

• Kickboard
• Pull Buoy
• Fins
• Snorkel
• 1L Water Bottle
• Club kit for poolside (including a club swim hat and t-shirt)

Swimmers should be ready for both technical drills and high-intensity training sets, ensuring they get the most out of every session.

Focus on Performance and Accountability

Swimmers in the County Development Squad are expected to be accountable for their progress and performance. Regular attendance, discipline in training, and participation in competitions are key elements for success in this squad. Swimmers are encouraged to set personal goals and work with their coaches to achieve them, leading to continued progression in their swimming journey.

By joining the County Development Squad, swimmers will refine their skills, develop advanced racing techniques, and build the competitive mindset necessary to excel in county-level competitions. This squad ensures swimmers are well-prepared for future challenges in their swimming careers.