Alpha Squad
The Alpha Squad is the next step for swimmers progressing from the Development Group. Training focuses on refining technique, improving efficiency, and developing the competitive skills needed to prepare for higher squad levels.
Swimmers build on the foundations of the Swim England Pre-Competition Development Programme, gradually learning to manage more structured and challenging training sets. The aim is to help every swimmer gain confidence, consistency, and the discipline required for long-term progression in the sport.
Training
Focus areas
Our coaching approach follows the principles of the Athlete Development Support Pathway (ADSP) — the swimming-specific version of the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model. Alpha Squad sits within the Learning to Train (Swim Skills) stage, where the emphasis is on skill development, fundamental movement, and fostering a lifelong enjoyment of swimming and physical activity.
Swimmers are assessed periodically as part of the regular training programme. These assessments are supportive rather than competitive and help coaches track progress and identify next steps. The Swim England Swimming Club Awards recognise and motivate each swimmer’s development, providing a clear pathway of achievement as they advance through the club.
Swimmers build on the foundations of the Swim England Pre-Competition Development Programme, gradually learning to manage more structured and challenging training sets. The aim is to help every swimmer gain confidence, consistency, and the discipline required for long-term progression in the sport.
Training
- Three sessions per week
- One hour per session
Focus areas
- Refining technique across all four competitive strokes
- Developing starts, turns, pacing, and race skills
- Building aerobic fitness and endurance
- Introducing goal setting and self-awareness in training
- Encouraging focus, concentration, and positive attitudes to learning
Our coaching approach follows the principles of the Athlete Development Support Pathway (ADSP) — the swimming-specific version of the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model. Alpha Squad sits within the Learning to Train (Swim Skills) stage, where the emphasis is on skill development, fundamental movement, and fostering a lifelong enjoyment of swimming and physical activity.
Swimmers are assessed periodically as part of the regular training programme. These assessments are supportive rather than competitive and help coaches track progress and identify next steps. The Swim England Swimming Club Awards recognise and motivate each swimmer’s development, providing a clear pathway of achievement as they advance through the club.
