OCSC offers a progressive, age- and skill-based group structure designed to meet swimmers where they are and help them grow—from first dives to competitive-level training. Each group builds on the one before it, focusing on technique, work ethic, racing skills, and a genuine love for the sport.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Individual progress in swimming is closely tied to the effort each athlete puts in, both in practice attendance and behavior.

  • Swimmers influence one another’s practice habits through encouragement, accountability, and striving for personal and team excellence.

  • Coaches emphasize team dynamics: while swimmers race individually, they are integral members of the Oregon Community Swim Club (OCSC).

  • Swim groups are not one-size-fits-all. Coaches consider many factors when assigning or moving swimmers, including skill level, ability, age, social aspects, and family dynamics (such as siblings). If you have questions about your swimmer’s placement, please encourage your athlete to speak with their coach or email the coaching staff, [email protected].

  • It is not typical for swimmers to move groups each season (for example, from short course to long course). Group moves happen when a swimmer consistently shows readiness, not just because a new season starts. Coaches look for steady skill development, comfort with training expectations, and overall readiness before making a change.

Leopard Sharks (Developmental | Ages 8 & Under)

This group introduces the fundamentals of competitive swimming in a fun, dynamic way. Swimmers learn all four strokes, starts, turns, racing procedures, and pool etiquette. Meet participation encouraged, but not required.


Minimum Requirements:

  • 25-meter freestyle with rhythmic side breathing (under 1:00)

  • 25-meter backstroke (under 1:00)

  • Coaching staff approval

Hammerhead Sharks (Advanced 7 & Under | Developmental–Intermediate Ages 8–10)

This group is for swimmers refining their skills across all four strokes. Athletes begin goal setting, using the pace clock, and developing positive practice habits. Meet participation expected at least once per month.


Minimum Requirements:

  • 25-meter freestyle with side breathing (under 40 seconds)

  • 25-meter backstroke (under 50 seconds)

  • Coaching staff approval

Squali (Advanced 8–9 | Intermediate 9–11)

Focused on experienced 10 & Unders with a passion for swimming. Emphasis is on technique under fatigue, advanced pace clock use, and building a strong work ethic. Meet participation expected at least once per month.


Minimum Requirements:

  • Flip turns

  • 100 IM in under 2:00 (yards) / 2:10 (meters)

  • Completion of most IM-Ready events

  • Coaching staff approval

Bull Sharks (Developmental 11–15 | Intermediate 11–13 | New HS Swimmers)

A group for both new and experienced swimmers continuing recreationally or competitively. Focus is on refining all strokes, developing goals, and building consistency. Meet participation expected at least once per month.
 

Minimum Requirements:

  • 50-meter freestyle (under 1:05)

  • 50-meter backstroke (under 1:10)

  • Basic understanding of butterfly and breaststroke

  • Coaching staff approval

Tiburones (TIBS) (Intermediate 12–14 | Advanced 10–12)

Designed for experienced swimmers showing championship habits and strong commitment. Swimmers work on aerobic capacity, race-pace training, and ownership of their goals.


Minimum Requirements:

  • Multiple “BB” times (10&U) or “B” times (11&O)

  • Completion of all IM-Ready and some IM-Xtreme events

  • Coaching staff approval

Makos (Advanced 13 & Over | Experienced High School Swimmers)

Our highest training group, for committed teens and high school swimmers. Training includes aerobic/anaerobic sets, mental skills, dryland, and goal-driven development.


Minimum Requirements:

  • “A” time standards in multiple events (14&U)

  • Completion of all IM-Xtreme events

  • Full HS season experience and proficiency in all strokes

  • Coaching staff approval