Swimmers are divided into practice groups according to ability level, maturity and age. Each swimmer is allowed to progress at his/her own pace. As swimmers progress, they are allowed to move into more advanced training groups. Swimmers are placed into training groups according to each group’s criteria, verifiable times and coach’s recommendations. This is a basic description of each group and ages are a rough guideline. See the team handbook for specific group criteria and requirements.
Blue Team – This is an instructional level group that introduces swimmers to all aspects of swimming. All practices involve instruction on proper swimming technique, body positioning, starts and turns. Swimmers learn how enjoyable the sport is while building confidence in their abilities. Please note that this is not a learn-to-swim program and should not be thought of as swim lessons. Ages 6-9
Pack Team - This group is for kids newer to the sport and that need continuing work on technique and endurance development. Drylands will be incorporated into practice. Ages 9-12 (UIC only)
Silver III Team – This group builds on the foundation established in the blue group. Swimmers are encouraged to begin participation in swim meets. Swimmers need to be around a9-10 ‘B’ level. Ages 7-10
Silver II Team – This group continues to build on swimming technique while introducing swimmers to competitive swimming and training. Swimmers are proficient at all four competitive strokes. Conditioning training increases as each swimmer progresses. Swimmers need to be at or near aRegional Time Standard. Ages 9-12
Silver I Team – This group continues to emphasize swimming technique while building swimmers aerobic base. Swimmers begin using more training equipment in addition to more interval work. Meet and practice attendance requirements may be established by the head age group coach. Swimmers need to be at or near an ‘A’ level. Ages 10-14
Senior II Team – This group is for high school swimmers who are looking at swimming more as a form of staying in shape. Meet and practice attendance requirements will be established by the head coach. Most practices will focus on aerobic training. Swimmers must be at a 13-14 ‘B’ level. Ages 13 & up
Senior I Team – This group is for swimmers who are looking to compete on a state level. Swimmers in this group are required to maintain 70% practice attendance. Meet attendance requirements will be established by the head coach. Swimmers must be at or near the Illinois Swimming Open Regional Standards. Ages 13 & up
National Team – Swimmers in this group are highly proficient in all four competitive strokes and continued emphasis is placed on swimming technique with a significant amount of time devoted to conditioning and training. Training will encompass all energy systems as well as stroke specific and distance work. Practices are difficult, physically and mentally. Swimmers in this group should desire to compete at a state, sectional and national level and are required to participate in the highest level meet for which they qualify. Double practices are offered in the summer and during holidays. Swimmers in this group are required to maintain 85% practice attendance. This is a year round training group and swimmers are expected to fully commit to the training program. Swimmers must have at least one Illinois Senior State Time Standard and must be placed on the group by the coaching staff.
