Squads & Progression Pathway
Introduction of the Squad System
In 2017, Dingwall Amateur Swimming Club introduced a formal squad structure to ensure swimmers were training in environments best suited to their ability, technique, and stage of development. This change was introduced to support long-term swimmer progression, improve session quality, and provide a clear pathway through the club.
The squad system allows coaches to deliver focused sessions to swimmers of similar ability, while giving swimmers and families a clearer understanding of how progression through the club works.
Our Coaching Philosophy
Our programme is built on a simple principle:
Technique first, technique second, fun always.
We place a strong emphasis on technical development and good training habits. Sessions are structured to help swimmers build secure foundations, develop efficient skills, and progress with confidence over time. Training demands are introduced gradually and appropriately, ensuring swimmers are challenged while remaining supported at every stage of their development.
Squad Structure Overview
The club operates a progressive pathway, beginning with entry-level squads and progressing through development and performance-focused squads as swimmers grow in skill, confidence, and commitment.
While squad names and structures may evolve over time, the pathway broadly supports swimmers through:
- Entry and development stages
- Technical and competitive development
- Advanced and performance-focused training
At the end of 2025, following a successful Warm Weather training camp, the club introduced a refined squad structure to better reflect swimmer ability, training demands, and long-term development goals. This restructuring allowed the coaching team to provide more appropriate challenge and clearer progression opportunities for swimmers at all stages of the pathway.
The introduction of higher-level training groups reflects the club’s ongoing development and commitment to supporting swimmers to progress in a structured, sustainable way.
Development and Progression
Progression through the squads is based on individual readiness, not age alone. Coaches assess swimmers across a range of areas, including:
- Technical ability across all strokes
- Starts, turns, and finishes
- Attitude, focus, and coachability
- Consistency and commitment to training
There is no fixed time limit for progression. Swimmers move through the pathway when they are ready to succeed at the next level, ensuring confidence and long-term development are prioritised.
Individual Journeys
Every swimmer’s pathway is different. Some progress quickly, others take more time to consolidate skills. Our aim is to support each swimmer’s development while maintaining enjoyment, confidence, and motivation.
Open communication is encouraged, and swimmers and families are welcome to speak with the coaching team if they have questions about squad placement or progression.
Retention and Wider Opportunities
The squad system also allows swimmers to remain involved in the sport in different ways as they grow older. Dingwall ASC supports swimmers to access Scottish Swimming’s Poolside Helper course, which provides a formal introduction to supporting coaches on poolside in a safe and structured way.
The club is proud that a number of our swimmers have completed this qualification, with training delivered by the Head Coach. This pathway allows swimmers to develop leadership skills, remain connected to the club, and continue contributing to the sport beyond peak competitive years, helping to retain swimmers within swimming in meaningful roles.
A Clear Pathway
The introduction and ongoing development of the squad system has helped Dingwall ASC:
- Deliver more focused, effective training sessions
- Support swimmers of all competitive aspirations
- Reduce bottlenecks and improve progression
- Retain swimmers for longer within the club
The pathway continues to evolve as the club grows, always with the aim of supporting swimmers to develop, enjoy swimming, and reach their potential.