Team Structure
The Fins Swim team is broken down into different groups, each individually focusing on the development and progression of the swimmer’s growth in the sport.
Group Moves:
Determining group moves can be complex, as it involves assessing various qualifications and factors. The following criteria are utilized to evaluate potential group transitions for athletes:
• Training Ability
• Commitment Level
• Swim Meet Participation
• Group Availability
• Competitive Skills
• Age of Athletes (age-ups will be considered for those transitioning to different age groups during the season)
(Note: Fall group assessments for the new season are conducted based on these categories throughout the Summer Long Course Season. If your swimmer does not compete or practice regularly during the summer, a placement swim will be required prior to the start of the next fall season.)
(Note: Group moves can be dynamic; if an athlete is exceeding the performance expectations of their current group or struggling to keep pace, coaches retain the authority to make adjustments throughout the season. Such decisions will always prioritize the athlete's long-term development and well-being.)
Age Group 1 Generalities:
• Age 7-12 (by Coaches Invitation if age outside the general)
This group is primarily composed of young athletes aged 7 to 12 years old. However, coaches have the discretion to invite swimmers who may be slightly outside this age range if they demonstrate the appropriate skills and readiness for participation. This ensures that all swimmers are adequately challenged and supported in their development.
• 3-4 practices a week.
Swimmers in this age group typically attend 3 to 4 practices each week. This frequency allows for consistent skill development and improvement while also providing enough time for recovery. The structured practice schedule helps athletes build endurance and technique through regular, focused training sessions.
• Starting to get into swim meets, even away meets. Begin the competitive swimmer process so that they experience the sport.
As swimmers progress, they will begin participating in swim meets, including competitions held away from their home pool. This exposure to competitive environments is crucial for their growth as athletes, helping them to understand the dynamics of racing and develop their competitive spirit. It also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among teammates.
• Working to master all 4 strokes and IM.
Athletes in this group are encouraged to focus on mastering all four competitive strokes—freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly—along with the Individual Medley (IM). Building proficiency in these strokes is essential for their overall development and prepares them for future competitions, as well as instilling a sense of versatility and confidence in their swimming abilities.
• Familiar and comfortable with lane etiquette and clock/set management.
Swimmers are taught the importance of lane etiquette, which includes understanding how to share lanes, start and finish races properly, and respect other swimmers. They also learn how to manage their training sets by using the clock effectively, ensuring they can maintain pace and timing during practices. This knowledge is critical for fostering a respectful and efficient training environment.
• Meets are encouraged to all in this group. Even one day participation is ok.
Participation in meets is strongly encouraged for all swimmers in this age group, as it provides valuable experience. Even if a swimmer can only participate for one day, it is beneficial for them to be exposed to the competitive atmosphere. This flexibility allows swimmers to gradually acclimate to competition at their own pace, reducing anxiety and building confidence.
• Sets of 100’s free (2:10) and IM (2:45). Starting to work 50’s of stroke into 100’s.
Training typically includes sets consisting of 100-yards freestyle swims targeting a time of 2:10 and 100-yards IM swims aiming for 2:45. This structure helps swimmers develop their pacing and endurance. Additionally, they are beginning to incorporate 50-meter swims of each stroke into their practice, which enhances their stroke technique and prepares them for longer distances in future competitions.
Age Group 2 Generalities:
• Age 11-14 (by Coaches Invitation if age outside the general)
This age group includes swimmers aged 11 to 14 years old, with the understanding that coaches may extend invitations to younger or older athletes based on skill level and readiness. This approach allows for a tailored experience that meets the developmental needs of each swimmer, ensuring they are challenged appropriately.
• 4-5 practices a week is expected. Athletes must communicate with the lead coach if prolonged absence is anticipated.
Swimmers are expected to attend 4 to 5 practices each week, which provides ample opportunity for skill enhancement and conditioning. Consistent attendance is crucial for progress, and athletes are encouraged to maintain open communication with the lead coach regarding any anticipated absences. This accountability fosters a sense of responsibility and commitment within the group.
• Swim meet participation is expected frequently.
Athletes in this group are encouraged to participate in swim meets regularly. Frequent competition helps swimmers gain valuable experience, develop their racing strategies, and build confidence in their abilities. It also creates an exciting atmosphere that promotes a healthy competitive spirit among teammates.
• All Four Strokes and IM are efficient.
Swimmers are expected to be proficient in all four competitive strokes—freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly—as well as the Individual Medley (IM). Mastery of these techniques is essential for success in competitions and contributes to their overall swimming competency. Efficient swimming techniques help swimmers improve their times and reduce fatigue during races.
• Working with coaches and teammates to build competitive culture and teamwork.
This age group emphasizes the importance of collaboration and camaraderie among swimmers. By working closely with coaches and fellow teammates, athletes learn to foster a competitive culture that values support, encouragement, and shared goals. This teamwork not only enhances their performance but also creates lasting friendships and a positive training environment.
• Working towards SC State Championship times.
Swimmers are focused on achieving qualifying times for the Short Course (SC) State Championships. This goal provides motivation and direction for their training, encouraging them to push their limits and strive for personal bests. Coaches will guide athletes in developing tailored training plans to help them reach these important benchmarks.
• All events, age appropriate, are competed in every season.
Athletes are encouraged to compete in a variety of age-appropriate events throughout each season. This diverse competition experience allows swimmers to explore their strengths and preferences in different strokes and distances, contributing to their overall development as well-rounded athletes. It also prepares them for future challenges as they progress in their swimming careers.
• Working with coaches to establish season goals, training goals, and individual goals.
Collaboration with coaches is essential for setting clear and attainable goals for the season, training, and individual achievements. By defining these objectives, swimmers can focus their efforts and track their progress, ensuring they remain motivated and engaged in their development. Regular check-ins with coaches help to adjust goals as needed and celebrate successes along the way.
• 100’s free @ 1:50/IM @ 2:15. 100’s of primary stroke 2:00-2:10. 200 IM repeats (a few at a time).
Training sets typically include 100-yard freestyle swims targeting a time of 1:50 and 100-yard IM swims aiming for 2:15. Additionally, swimmers work on 100s of their primary stroke with a goal time of 2:00 to 2:10. For endurance training, they will incorporate a few repeats of the 200 IM, allowing them to build stamina and refine their technique in a longer format. This structured training helps swimmers develop the speed and endurance needed for competitive events.
Advance Age Group Generalities:
• Ages: 11-15
This group consists of swimmers aged 11 to 15 years old, encompassing a critical developmental stage in their athletic journey. Swimmers in this age range are typically transitioning from youth-level competitions to more advanced competitive swimming, allowing them to refine their skills and explore their potential in the sport.
• Practices Offered: 4-5 practices a week is expected. Athletes must communicate with the lead coach if prolonged absence is anticipated.
Participants are expected to attend 4 to 5 practices each week. This frequency is essential for building endurance, improving technique, and fostering a strong work ethic. Swimmers are encouraged to maintain open lines of communication with the lead coach regarding any anticipated absences, ensuring that they remain accountable and engaged in their training process.
• Swim meet participation is expected.
Regular participation in swim meets is a key component of this age group. Competitive experiences help swimmers apply their training in a race environment, develop mental toughness, and gain valuable insights into their performance. This exposure to competition also cultivates a sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie among teammates.
• All Four Strokes and IM are proficient and efficient and desire to swim on the Senior level.
Swimmers in this group are expected to demonstrate proficiency and efficiency in all four competitive strokes—freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly—along with the Individual Medley (IM). As they master these techniques, swimmers also express a desire to progress to the Senior level, showcasing their commitment to advancing their skills and competing at higher levels.
• Swimmers are preparing to swim at the State level. Technical excellence, more rigorous water and dryland practices, personal accountability, and commitment are emphasized.
This group is focused on preparing for State-level competitions, which requires a heightened level of technical excellence and dedication. Coaches implement more rigorous training sessions that include both water and dryland practices, emphasizing the importance of strength, flexibility, and conditioning. Personal accountability and commitment to training are critical, as they help swimmers develop the discipline needed to succeed at higher levels.
• Swimmers must maintain a 70% attendance average to remain on this group.
To ensure a committed and cohesive training environment, swimmers are required to maintain a minimum attendance average of 70%. This standard helps to promote consistency in training and fosters a sense of responsibility among athletes. Regular attendance is essential for skill development and team dynamics, as it allows swimmers to build relationships and work collaboratively with their peers.
• Working with coaches to establish season goals, training goals, and individual goals.
Collaborating with coaches to set clear and attainable goals is vital for swimmers in this group. By establishing season goals, training goals, and individual objectives, athletes can focus their efforts and monitor their progress throughout the year. Regular discussions with coaches help swimmers stay motivated, adjust their goals as needed, and celebrate achievements along the way.
• 100’s free @ 1:30/IM @ 1:45. 100’s of primary stroke 1:50-2:10. 200 IM repeats (a few at a time).
Training sets typically include 100-yard freestyle swims with a target time of 1:30 and 100-yard IM swims aiming for a time of 1:45. Additionally, swimmers focus on 100s of their primary stroke with goal times ranging from 1:50 to 2:10. To build endurance and technique, they incorporate a few repeats of the 200 IM during practice sessions. This structured training regimen helps swimmers develop the speed, stamina, and confidence necessary for competitive events.
Seniors Generalities:
• Ages: 15 and over
This group consists of swimmers aged 15 and older, representing a critical stage in their swimming careers where they begin to transition into elite-level competition. These athletes are often at a pivotal point in their development, as they work towards achieving higher goals in competitive swimming.
• Practices Offered: 4-5 practices a week is expected. Athletes must communicate with the lead coach if prolonged absence is anticipated.
Swimmers in this age group are expected to attend 4 to 5 practices each week, which is essential for advancing their skills and maintaining peak performance levels. Regular attendance fosters discipline and consistency in training. It is crucial for athletes to communicate any anticipated prolonged absences to the lead coach, as this ensures they remain accountable and receive support in their training journey.
• Swim meet participation is expected.
Participation in swim meets is a fundamental expectation for swimmers in this group. Competing regularly allows athletes to apply their training in real-world scenarios, gain experience, and develop their racing strategies. This consistent exposure to competition helps swimmers build confidence and showcases their progress to coaches and peers.
• Primarily for swimmers age 14 and older who are serious about pursuing USA competitive swimming to the Sectional level and beyond.
This group is designed for dedicated swimmers aged 14 and older who have a strong commitment to pursuing competitive swimming at the USA Swimming Sectional level and higher. These athletes are focused on honing their skills and achieving qualifying times for prestigious competitions. Their dedication sets the foundation for future success in the sport.
• Fitness and performance levels are increased utilizing progressive pool and dryland training. Swimmers should be able to complete a 400 IM and train freestyle on at least a 1:25 per 100 yard base.
Training in this group is characterized by progressive pool and dryland workouts aimed at enhancing fitness and performance levels. Swimmers are expected to demonstrate the ability to complete a 400-yard Individual Medley (IM) and train freestyle with a base time of at least 1:25 per 100 yards. This focus on endurance and speed prepares athletes for the demands of competitive races and promotes overall athletic development.
• Swimmers must maintain an 80% attendance average to remain on this group.
To ensure a committed and focused training environment, swimmers are required to maintain a minimum attendance average of 80%. This standard promotes consistency and accountability among athletes, helping them fully engage in their training while developing strong relationships with teammates. Regular attendance is vital for skill enhancement and team cohesion.
• Working with coaches to establish season goals, training goals, and individual goals.
Collaboration with coaches to set clear and realistic goals is essential for swimmers in this group. By working together to establish season goals, training objectives, and individual targets, athletes can channel their efforts effectively and track their progress throughout the year. Regular check-ins with coaches ensure that swimmers stay motivated and adapt their goals as they evolve.
• Stroke technique is strongly emphasized. This group focuses on goal setting, practice commitment, personal development, and responsibility. Strong commitment to attendance, personal responsibility, and participation in scheduled Championship meets are expected.
A major focus for this group is the refinement of stroke technique, which is critical for achieving success in competitive swimming. Swimmers are encouraged to set personal goals and commit to their practice schedules, fostering a sense of personal development and accountability. Expectations for strong attendance, personal responsibility, and active participation in Championship meets are set to ensure that athletes are fully engaged and prepared for competition. This commitment not only enhances individual performance but also contributes to the overall success of the team.
