COMPETITIVE SWIMMING
Hythe Aqua is a competitive club and membership of one of competitive sections will lead to swimming in galas, playing Water polo matches, participating in synchronised swimming competitions and taking part in Masters Competitions. If you join one of the competitive sections, you will be expected to compete for the Club in the competitions and championships chosen by the Coaches.

Swimming Squads
Since the club was established in 1975 club swimmers have reached the highest standards with medal winners from East Kent Championships level to National Championship standard.
The scheme caters for swimmers aged 6 upwards who wish to swim at a competitive level and has a range of squads to meet their needs.

Squads
There are three squads at Hythe Intermediate, Junior and Senior. The Intermediate Squad provides a link with our progressive learn to swim scheme and prepares swimmers for competitive training. Swimmers then progress through the squad structure of Junior and Senior.

Intermediate Squad
At approximately age 9 to 10 years, some swimmers will be selected by the Head Teacher/Coach to join the Intermediate Squad. There are no hard and fast rules and there are exceptions, however these are the Head Teacher/Coach’s responsibility and their decision is final.

The Head Teacher/Coach will assess swimmers in the higher teaching groups. When they feel that the child is capable of coping with the demands of the Intermediate squad they will be asked to move.

A move to Intermediates is with a view to race. Age, acquired technique and speed are all factors in this decision. If you have any queries then speak to the teacher/coach at a convenient time.
The aim of the intermediate squad is to continue with tuition but also build up your stamina.

You will be focused on correct dives, turns, relay take-over and stroke improvement on any weaknesses. A few children will be asked to race in galas. DON’T WORRY IF YOU ARE NOT ASKED, there are frequent opportunities, so your time will come.

Squad Training
When your child reaches this stage, your time will be in big demand dropping and collecting them from training sessions. Take the time to look at the Notice board, a quick glance will tell you if there is something there for you or your child. Remember, it is best means of communication - please use it!

Please remember that all pool side helpers are trained volunteers. Volunteering will give you a better idea of what is going on and is better than watching from the balcony.
If you are not sure how you can help, ask one of the coaches or a committee member. Generally Junior Squad swimmers will aim to swim 2,500m per session and attend a minimum of three sessions per week. Senior Squad swimmers will swim in excess of 3,000m per session and attend a minimum of four sessions per week. There is criteria in place for promotion between squads and regular assessments take place.

There are over 10 hours of coached training available for top swimmers:
Mornings: Monday/Wed/Friday – 7.00 to 8.00am
Tuesday/Thursday Club Nights – 7.00 to 9.00pm
Sunday Club Night – 5.00 to 6.30pm
Wednesdays – 4.30 to 6.00pm