Competition Squad

Progressive Training Towards Performance Training

Welcome to the Competition Squad, a team focused on achieving excellence in racing and aiming for county and regional qualifying times. In this squad, we emphasise rigorous training and discipline to maintain a high standard of performance and set a positive example for all. The Competition Squad benefit from 6.75 hours of pool time per week. To optimise progress, members should aim for at least two weekly sessions. Progression through to our top Performance Squad is determined by timed assessments.

The lead coach for the Competition Squad is Mark Horrod (Level 2 Coach). Our coaching team comprises esteemed professionals dedicated to honing your skills and guiding you towards success. The team includes Terry Davies (Level 4 Coach), Sarah Young (Level 2 Coach), Matt Rafiq-Craske (Level 1 Coach), Nicola Evans (Level 1 Coach/Level 2 Teacher), and Tom Osborn (Level 1 Teacher).

Join the Competition Squad to embark on an exciting journey of competitive swimming. Whether you’re aiming for personal bests, club records or podium finishes; our coaches provide the expertise and support you need to excel.

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COMPETITION SQUAD

Competition Squad
Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre
Tuesday
06:00-07:15Main Pool
Tuesday
19:00-20:00Main Pool
Wednesday
19:30-20:30Main Pool
ThursdayOR
06:00-07:15Main Pool
Sunday
07:45-09:00Main Pool
Sunday
19:00-20:00Main Pool

Total training time

6.25 hours water time.

All swimmers should warm up for 10 minutes before each session, and stretch for 10 minutes after each session.

Equipment required:

  • Swimming trunks/jammers and costumes
  • Swimming Goggles
  • Drinks Bottle
  • Swimming Hat
  • Kick Boards
  • Pull Buoys
  • Fins

Additional Equipment –  Competition Squad

  • Hand Paddles
  • Snorkel
  • Stretch band
  • Skipping Rope

Optional: Training Parachute or Drag Belt

 

Hand Paddles

Come in Sizes XS/S/M/L. We recommend those with only a thumbhole

FINIS Agility Floating Paddles (proswimwear.co.uk)

 

Snorkel

Should extend up the middle of the swimmer’s face to the top of their head, not around the side. Adult and junior versions exist.

Arena Swim Snorkel Pro 11 (this is an adult version which is fine for some children)

– ARENA Swim Snorkel Pro III, Unisex Adulto : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors FINIS Glide Snorkel (Mint Green) : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

 

Kickboard

Ideally no holes for swimmers’ hands, they need boards that they can hold at the top to force the legs lower in the water.

Speedo EVA Kickboard – Mash Up Turquoise/Lime : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

 

Pull Buoy

Speedo Unisex Foam Pullbuoy, Swim Training, Fluro Tangerine/Blue Flame, One Size : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

Maru Swimming Pull Buoy Float, Adults and Kids, Swimming Aid Equipment for Stength Training, Pool use, Made of Foam, Leg Float, Provides Comfort and Buoyancy (Lime/Blue, Adult) : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

 

Fins

The fins should be short, not the longer style of flippers used for scuba diving.

MARU Training Fins, Silicone Swimming Flippers for Stronger, Faster Kick with Greater Propulsion : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

Cressi Light Fins – Light And Powerful Short Fins For Swimming/Snorkelling Adults And Children Unisex : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN OUR SWIMMING CLUB?

We are a competitive sport club, with our swimmers competing
at all levels from local team galas to National and European events.