GSH Competitive & Recreational Programs

Note: All ages presented below are intended as a guide only

BRONZE

Primarily for an 8 and over group of swimmers whose skills, experience, or interest level in competitive swimming are more advanced.

The program emphasis is on:

• Developing and refining the four competitive strokes, starts and turns in a fun atmosphere.
• Endurance sets will be introduced.
• Some dry land skills will be presented.

Swimmers can practice up to 3 hours per week. The season runs from September through May. There may be practice time available after that for those who wish to continue pursuing personal goals not yet met. Small, local meets are made available to the swimmers based on their readiness. Required equipment for this group- training fins, team swim suit, team cap.

BRONZE RECREATIONAL

This is an ongoing developmental program for swimmers aged 12 and under.  Swimmers in this group are involved for a variety of reasons.  Some of these may include fitness, lifesaving, stroke/skill development, cross training for triathlon or other sports, or he/she may not have an interest in a competitive program but want to be challenged.  Emphasis is on stroke and general skills development, training principles and endurance.  Swimmers in Bronze Recreational have a 3-hours per week program available.  The season runs from September through May.  Required equipment for this group- training fins, team swim suit, team cap (if attending developmental level meets).

SILVER

This program is primarily aimed at the 10 and over group of swimmers with a high level of interest in competitive swimming. Strokes and general skill development is continued from the bronze program but is more in-depth, with the program becoming more challenging. Swimmers can practice up to 4 hours/week with full attendance highly encouraged. The season runs from September through June. Required equipment for this group- training fins, team swim suit, team cap.

GOLD 

This is a competitive swim program for developing athletes aged 12 and over. Swimmers in this group should demonstrate a high level of interest and commitment to the sport of competitive swimming. Emphasis is on continued stroke and general skills development, training principles and endurance. Swimmers in Gold have a 6 hour/week program available with full attendance highly encouraged. The season runs from September through June. Required equipment for this group- training fins, paddles, team swim suit, team cap.

GOLD RECREATIONAL

This is an ongoing developmental program for swimmers aged 13 and over. Swimmers in this group are involved for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons may include fitness, lifesaving, stroke/skill development, cross-training for triathlon or other sports, or swimmers may not have an interest in the competitive program but want to be challenged. Emphasis is on stroke and general skills development, training principles and endurance. Swimmers in the Gold Recreational program have a 3 hours/week program available. The season runs from September through May. Required equipment for this group- training fins, team swim suit, team cap (if attending developmental level meets).

PLATINUM

This program is primarily for motivated and committed swimmers ages 13 and over. Full attendance is highly encouraged. Selection to this group is subject to the Head Coach’s evaluation of a swimmer’s readiness. Swimmers have 14 program hours available. The program runs from September through July (depending on the level of each athlete and the summer meet schedule). Required equipment for this group- training fins, paddles, team swim suit, team cap.

For more information please contact the GSH office at (613) 726-7901 or gac@bellnet.ca