Training Groups

Our training groups are designed to support each swimmer's journey, from learning foundational skills to preparing for national-level competition. Each level provides age-appropriate challenges, technical development, and a focus on personal growth in and out of the pool.

Group 1 
This introductory group is designed for swimmers ages 12 & under who are new to competitive swimming and eager to explore what being on a team is all about. Practices focus on learning the fundamentals of all four strokes, water safety, and building comfort in a team environment. Swimmers begin each session with 15 minutes of out-of-water instruction to reinforce technique and develop body awareness. Emphasis is placed on skill development, confidence-building, and fun.

Requirements: ability to swim 50 yards unassisted of freestyle and backstroke, perform a head-first dive, and comfortably submerge.
Meet participation is optional.

Group 2 
For swimmers ages 14 & under who are legal in all four strokes and have achieved two or more Group 2 standards in the same course. This group introduces a higher level of technical focus and consistency in training. Practices aim to develop efficient mechanics across all strokes, build aerobic capacity, and reinforce foundational racing skills. Swimmers are expected to attend practices regularly and compete in meets as they progress through the season.

Coach’s discretion applies for swimmers with low meet attendance but strong practice commitment.

Group 3 
Designed for swimmers ages 11 & up who have achieved at least one CT Age Group Championship cut or two or more Group 3 standards in the same course. This group emphasizes technical precision, training discipline, and race readiness. Practices include stroke development, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, and the introduction of race strategy and goal setting. Swimmers begin to learn about nutrition, mental preparation, and time management as part of a holistic approach to performance.

Meet attendance at the highest qualified level is expected.

Group 4 
This group is for athletes ages 11 & up who consistently attend at least 80% of practices and have achieved a 13-14 CT Age Group cut or two or more Group 4 standards in the same course. Training is elevated in intensity and includes advanced stroke mechanics, racing tactics, and dryland to enhance athleticism. Swimmers in this group are expected to show commitment to their development, balance their schedules responsibly, and pursue both personal and performance goals.

Participation in meets at the highest qualified level is required.

Group 5 
Our highest training group, designed for swimmers ages 14 & up who attend at least 80% of practices and have achieved two or more Group 5 standards in the same course. This group prepares athletes for high-level competition, including regional, national, and international meets. Training is intensive and includes advanced technical work, dryland strength training, mental skills coaching, and race strategy development. Swimmers are expected to take ownership of their training and fully commit to the year-round process.

Participation in all championship-level meets is mandatory. High school swimming is permitted, but regular attendance must be maintained.