Dronfield Dolphins

 Training Squads

 

Once swimmers leave our learner programme (or receive an invite to the squads following a trial) they will start training in E Squad. Here the focus will be on improving the swimmers technique and introducing the butterfly stroke. Over time swimmers will progress through the squads based on a number of factors including technique, stamina, swim times, competition entry, attitude, attendance and following the club's Code of Conduct. Throughout this journey we aim to create a fun learning environment. Our top squad is called A Squad and in this squad the coaches concentrate on preparing the swimmers for competition, albeit there are opportunities to enter various competitions at all levels. 

 

 

One thing that always causes issues for swimmers and parents is the timing of progression through the squads. The coaches review squad moves independently and coaches consult with each other before moves are finalised. The decision to move a swimmer to a new squad is based on a mixture of things but is ultimately the coaches decision. Before deciding on moves the coaches take into account the swimmers attitude to training; the swimmers attendance at training; the swimmers times achieved in galas or club events and the standard of swimmers in the higher squad.