Group Movements

Movement between groups is more than swim at a designated speed or demonstrating appropriate techniques. It is also about the athlete’s ability to handle (physically and mentally) the training, the increased responsibilities that come with promotion to the next group, and the higher commitment level that is required. So, while an age group athlete may be physically able to train at the senior level, if they do not yet possess the maturity and attitude to train at that level, they will remain at the age group level to allow time and experience for those necessary skills to develop.

Criteria for moving up a level

Level of commitment to the sport of swimming
Practice attendance
Training ability
Stroke and skill development
Level of maturity and personal responsibility
Age and previous experience. Disclaimer – We will NOT move a swimmer up to a higher group based on their age alone.
Meet performance and best times

Guidelines for measurement

Meets attendance expectations for current group and demonstrates the ability to make attendance requirements for the next level
Consistently trains above the level of their current group
Demonstrates ability to train successfully on base intervals at the next practice level
Has mastered stroke and skill expectations of current practice group
Exhibits level of maturity and responsibility typical of swimmers at the next level
Fits age and experience parameters of the next group

Criteria for moving down a level

Has demonstrated that he/she is not willing to make the commitment level expected of the practice group
Attends practice consistently less often than the group expectation
Is not training successfully on base intervals for team level
Needs injury rehabilitation at a less strenuous level

Process followed for moving up/down a level

Discuss potential move with coach at the next level
Discuss and receive approval for desired movement with Head Coach
Discuss group change and expectations at the next level with the swimmer and parent