Which Squad is Right for My Swimmer?
We place swimmers in squads based on their current swimming stage, not age, so they train with others working on similar skills. This approach reflects Swimming Queensland’s athlete development pathway, which guides how clubs across the state structure squad progression. Coaches monitor each swimmer’s development closely, and they’ll move to the next squad when the coaching team feels they’re ready.
Each swimmer is assessed individually and placed where they’ll be supported and positively challenged. Our coaches are more than happy to explain anything further if you have questions about your child’s squad level.
Who it’s for: Swimmers who have completed learn-to-swim and are ready for their first taste of squad training.
Focus: Stroke fundamentals across all 4 strokes, building endurance, getting comfortable with squad routines.
What’s next: Once technique is consistent across all strokes, swimmers move into Development Squad.
Expected training times per week: At least 2 times per week
Who it’s for: Swimmers consolidating their technique and beginning to take part in races.
Focus: Refining stroke efficiency, introducing race skills (starts, turns, finishes), building an aerobic base.
What’s next: Swimmers showing consistency and qualifying times required progress to State Squad.
Expected training times per week: At least 3 times per week
Who it’s for: Swimmers training toward — or already holding — state qualifying times.
Focus: Higher training volume, race-pace work, and a greater individual focus on each swimmer’s events.
What’s next: Swimmers performing at State level may progress to National Squad, at the Coaches’ discretion.
Expected training times per week: At least 4 times per week
Who it’s for: Swimmers competing at or towards national level.
Focus: Individualised, high-performance training tailored to each swimmer’s events and goals.
Note: Entry to National Squad is at the discretion of the Head Coach
Expected training times per week: At least 6 times per week