SWIMMER SELECTION IN SQUADS

Below is a brief outline of the new squad structure, detailing the primary age and expected ability of the swimmers in each squad.

When coaches consider which swimmers for squads, they consider the following:

• A demonstrated ability that swimmer can handle the workload;
• The swimmer’s ability to handle the psychology of the group;
• The swimmers ability to compete well;
• Whether the swimmer is prepared to make the commitment?

MARLINS

Marlins squad trains 7-10 pool sessions and incorporate dry-land or gym sessions each week. Swimmers are primarily 15 years and over with Opens and National age group Championship qualifying times in more than one event. Swimmers are trained all season to prepare for National level competition. Additional sessions may be available for committed swimmers. Regular racing at quality meets is expected.

ORCAS

National Age squad trains 6-8 pool sessions and incorporate dry-land or gym sessions each week. Swimmers are 13 and over and qualified for the New Zealand Age Championships. These swimmers are competing at and striving to be competitive at Age group level. Swimmers training in the Orcas squad are expected to make a full commitment to the training and competition schedule laid out by the coach and commit to yearly plan to build towards their national championship meet.

MAKOS
Makos have current Div II times for the following 2012 and are aim to make National Age Group Times the squad trains 6-8 pool sessions. Swimmers 13 and over. These swimmers are striving to be competitive at Age group level. Swimmers training in the Makos squad are expected to make a full commitment to the training and competition schedule laid out by the coach and commit to yearly plan to build towards their national championship meet.

HAMMERHEADS

Hammerheads squad trains 3 or more pool sessions per week Swimmers are primarily 13 tand over striving for multiple Wellington champs qualifying times and/or aiming to qualify for the NZ division 2 nationals. Swimmers training in the Hammerheads squad are expected to make a full commitment to the training and competition schedule laid out by the coach.

BARRACUDAS

Juniors squad trains 4 to 6 pool sessions per week with swimmers expected to do a minimum 4 sessions per week and compete in competitions. Swimmers are primarily 10 to 12 years and have junior nationals qualifying times and are competing at most swim meets . Most swimmers are training for Auckland Junior champs ,Wellington Champs and New Zealand junior nationals. Swimmers normally remain here until they are 13 years old and have finished Junior champs level.

KILLER WHALES

Killer whales squad trains 2 or more pool sessions each week. All swimmers in this group are competing for Swimzone Racing . Swimmers are primarily 12 years and under and aiming for local swim meets and gaining Wellington champs qualifying times in multiple events. Training ,fitness and beginners racing skills are the priority.

STINGRAYS

Stingrays Group provides a transition between the swimming lessons (AQUAKIDS) and training squads. Swimmers are generally aged between 8 and 12 years, and complete 1-2 sessions per week. Swimmers are encouraged to compete in the monthly Timezone races on a Friday night on a monthly basis run .These meets are low key but give the young swimmers a chance to see what racing is all about. Swimzone racing swim club provides the support .