Transition 2 – Session 1 lane 6

Transition 1 – Session 2, Lane 1 & 2

Squad Outline

This squad is the second stage of the DSC competitive coaching program and the first stage of the advanced training programme. This level is the stepping-stone in the development of swimmers to compete at senior level. Swimmers are expected to compete in all strokes, distances and individual medley events. The work undertaken will consolidate all previously learned skills, with new training aims to include work at and above threshold level, the development of the anaerobic system where appropriate and to introduce mental preparation for training and competition.

Swimmers in this squad are expected to achieve 5 County age group qualifying times with the stretch goal of achieving Eastern Region qualification.

Admission Procedure

Successful promotion from Development Squad, following assessment by Transition Squad Coach
Or;

• Trial Swimmers Entry - at the discretion of the Head Coach
• The requisite skills that swimmers should have prior to admission are as follows:
• Demonstrated a willingness and commitment to develop their swimming to a more competitive level
• Willing to listen, learn and follow instructions
• Efficient and legal in the Four competitive strokes
• Individual medley swimming and the associated turning techniques
• To have passed the Competitive Start award
• Ability for endurance and medium distance work
• Holding a legal stroke pattern with even pace and relevant skill:
  
  o       400m Frontcrawl with a suitable recognised breathing pattern
  o       200m Backstroke with good timing and breathing
  o       200m Breaststroke with simultaneous whip action kick and relevant circular arm action
  o       100m Individual Medley

Aims & Objectives of Transition Squad

• To further develop stroke technique and refine competitive skills
• Discuss and introduce race strategy into training
• Emphasis on competitive techniques, specifically starts, turns and relay takeovers.
• To increase the training load while maintaining excellent stroke mechanics.
• To further develop the hard work ethic of training
• Improve general flexibility and body strength
• To produce swimmers who have the ability to gain 5 county age group qualifying times and can compete at high level at the Counties.
• To aim for Regional Qualification
• To ensure swimmers have an experience of a wider range of competitive swimming opportunities
• Introduce different training methods; Even and negative split swimming, overload, anaerobic training and test sets (where appropriate) etc.
• Refined sculling techniques to 'feel' and encourage correct movement patterns
• Educate swimmers in correct pre-swim stretching techniques and enforcement of their application
• Understand the importance of warm up and swim down
• Introduction of land training sessions to develop flexibility, coordination and general body strength
• Set competition goals and monitor improvement

Commitment

Transition squad to attend a minimum of three/four of the available workouts (Recommended)

• Physical, psychological and social readiness to undertake the training programme.
• To purchase additional equipment for training – hand paddles
• To be ready for swimming 5 minutes before the session begins.
• To be available to represent the club in Galas if selected
• Self motivation to choose Open meets to compete for county/region times