Parent's Guide

Welcome to Elmbridge Phoenix Swimming Club.

This guide is designed to help you understand all the rules and structure surrounding swimming galas. If you feel we've missed anything. please let us know so we can add more information.

Most new swimmers will begin in Development 1 Squad, which is our entry-level competitive squad training in a 25m pool.

When joining the club, your child will start with a Club Train Membership renewed annually by the club. This membership is for swimmers who are training and developing their skills within the club network. It does not allow entry into open competitions. Once your child is 9 years old and ready to compete, the club will upgrade the membership to Club Compete. This membership is for swimmers who want to take part in competitions. 

Competitions

There are different levels of swimming competitions. All competitions charge a fee per swimmer per each entry as well as fee per spectator entry to watch your swimmer swim.

Mini Meets are unlicensed events designed for younger swimmers to experience racing and see if they are ready to compete. These meets are typically unlicensed, mening no official time is being recorder in Swim England Rankings, also swimmers will not be  disqualified for technical infractions. They provide an excellent opportunity to practice in a racing environment and preparefor more serious competitions in the future.

Level 4 Meets are licenced, and your times will be recorded in the Swim England Rankings afterwards. The difference with these meets is that they will have a Referee and qualified officials as well as disqualification codes will apply if a stroke or turn is not performed correctly. These meets are usally for our Club Champs, occasionally, we are invited to, or we may invite another club to take part in this competitions.

Club Champs are usually held several times a year and include a series of 50s, 100s, 200s, and 400s events. You do not need a qualifying time to take part in these competitions, making them a great opportunity to record times across a wide range of events. Opportunities like this are rare, so it is extremely important for swimmers to compete in as many events as possible. Times gained at these competitions will be required for swimmers to enter higher-level galas.

Entries for these events will be made via our entry portal called Swim Manager. Please note that there is always a deadline for entries to allow the club to organise the programme of events efficiently. We encourage all swimmers to sign up and make the most of these valuable opportunities.