Foundation

We have six squads based on swimmers’ level and age.

The Foundation Squad is designed for swimmers aged 12 years and under who have progressed through a Learn to Swim programme and aim to learn and acquire fundamental stroke technique and skills in competitive swimming. Swimmers train twice per week and are encouraged to join Club Nights to experience racing and build confidence in a supportive, fun environment.

Regional Development

The Regional Development Squad is ideal for swimmers aged 12 years and over who enjoy swimming for fitness. Swimmers train twice per week and may choose to compete at Interclub Meets (e.g. Wanaka Interclub). The focus of this squad is to develop fundamental stroke technique and skills in competitive swimming and improve and maintain fitness.

Regional Performance Junior

The Regional Performance Junior Squad supports dedicated swimmers aged 12 years and under who aim to experience higher-level training and competitions. Swimmers train four sessions per week and compete at Interclub Meets, Regional Championships (i.e. Otago Long/Short Course) and Mako Junior Festival. They will gain broader knowledge of training methods and race skills, and develop strength, balance, coordination and endurance.

National Development

The National Development Squad supports committed swimmers who compete at or are equivalent to the zonal level (i.e. South Island Long/Short Course), and work towards qualifying for national-level competitions. With an aim of training six sessions per week, this squad focuses on refining stroke technique during all speeds and intensities of swimming, adapting to diverse training methods, advancing race skills and developing personal management skills.

National Performance

The National Performance Squad is for highly dedicated swimmers who are qualified for National Championships (i.e. NZ Age Group, NZ Champs, NZ Short Course) or equivalent to this level. Training involves seven sessions per week, with a strong emphasis on physical, technical and psychosocial excellence. This squad provides a high-performance environment for swimmers aspiring to excel nationally and internationally.

Regional Performance Age Group

The Regional Performance Age Group Squad is designed for swimmers aged 12 years and over who have desire for personal improvement and skill development. Training is set at three sessions per week, with swimmers expected to participate in competitions at the interclub and regional levels. The emphasis is on experiencing a variety of training methods and performing various stroke events and distances.