Introduction to Our Training Groups
At Condors Swim Club, our training groups are designed to help every swimmer thrive—both in and out of the pool. Each group has specific goals and expectations, with training plans that match swimmers’ abilities, experience, and long-term aspirations.
When placing swimmers, we look beyond just their times or skills—we consider the big picture. Our goal is to create an environment where teammates grow together, support one another, and build lasting friendships. Group placements often happen alongside peers, fostering a sense of camaraderie that lasts from their first races all the way through high school—and even as proud alumni in college and beyond.
Below, you’ll find descriptions of each training group, along with photos of our amazing swimmers in action. These snapshots capture the spirit of teamwork, dedication, and fun that define the Condors experience!
For our youngest athletes with big potential!
- Designed for 8 & Under swimmers with proficiency in all four competitive strokes: freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly
- Focus on mastering technique and building racing skills
- Introduction to age-appropriate swim and strength training
- Participate in Condors-hosted meets and exclusive 8 & Under competitions
- Aim for the annual highlight: Metropolitan 8 & Under Championships!
Building the foundation for future competitive success
- Designed for committed swimmers ages 8–12: younger athletes ready for more and older swimmers newer to the sport
- Training intensity increases with a strong focus on technique, endurance, and race preparation
- Coaches emphasize fun, teamwork, and individual growth throughout the season
- Swimmers attend local meets (within ~25 miles) and begin traveling to regional and out-of-state competitions
- Target milestone events: December Travel Meet, Winter Championships, and Spring Travel Meet
- Silver Criteria
- Can confidently race all four strokes and the individual medley (IM)
- Shows consistent attendance, focus, and effort at practices
- Regularly competes at meets, including traveling to select non‑Condors‑hosted competitions in the region
Advanced competitive training for committed 12 & Under athletes
- Designed for top-performing 12 & Under swimmers, including regional standouts and nationally ranked athletes
- Focused, high-intensity training—up to 6 practices per week including strength training, with sessions up to 2 hours
- Swimmers develop advanced technique, racing strategy, and mental toughness
- Gold Elite athletes are groomed for success at the highest levels of age group swimming and future transition to senior-level competition
- Expected to qualify for top meets: December Travel Meet, Silver Championships, and Junior Metropolitan Championships
- Focus on achieving Zone Championship cuts while developing toward NCSA Age Group Championship standards.
Pathway to high-level performance for 13 & Over athletes
- Senior Prep: For swimmers building toward higher-level competition, including high school athletes balancing club and school seasons. Focus on technical growth, consistency, and training readiness.
- Senior 1: Primarily 13–14-year-olds with championship experience, preparing for regional and national age group meets through increased training intensity and strength training.
- Senior: Advanced group training for elite-level swimmers competing at regional, national, and international championships. Focus on race execution, discipline, and long-term development toward collegiate and senior-level success.