Junior Squad in Cannonvale
Confidence. Technique. Fun.
Cannonvale Swim Centre provides the perfect environment for young swimmers to take the next step in their aquatic journey. Designed to build confidence, improve technique and boost fitness, our program helps children develop strong, efficient strokes in a fun and supportive setting. Led by experienced coaches who understand how to motivate and encourage, each session focuses on skill progression without the pressure of competition.
The Junior Squad is ideal for those who have completed learn-to-swim lessons and are ready for a new challenge. It’s a great way to stay active, make friends and enjoy time in the water.
Junior Squad Overview
JUNIOR SQUAD (previously Mini and Lasers squads) is the first training group after the learn to swim levels. This group is targeted at a “stroke development” focus, with swimmers in the group consisting predominantly of 6 to 10-year-old children. They will learn how to refine their stroke techniques developed in the learn-to-swim program.
They will be introduced to lap swimming and training etiquette. Sessions will emphasise training etiquette, stroke development, coordination, and water safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the expectations of swimmers?
Swimmers should be ready to commence each session on time. They should bring goggles, a water bottle if desired, and fins to each session. Cannonvale Swim Centre supplies kickboards.
What is required for assessment, enrolment and fees?
A registration form must be completed prior to commencing training. Before starting squad training, a swimmer needs to be assessed or have a trial to determine if squad training will be suitable for them.
How does promotion (upgrading) work?
Junior Squad swimmers may be promoted to Development Squad at the discretion of the coach. Promotion is based on attendance, demonstrating adequate commitment, attitude, including the ability to train in a group, showing consideration for other squad members, listening attentively to the coach and following instructions, and giving their best effort in every training session. Ability is also required, including swimming without fins and completing 6 x 25m of each stroke, including skills and drills, on a 1 minute cycle.
What age is suitable for joining the Junior Squad?
The Junior Squad is generally suited to school-aged children who have completed basic learn-to-swim lessons and are comfortable swimming independently. While there's no strict age requirement, most swimmers are ready for this level between 7 and 10 years old. The focus is on skill development, fitness and confidence, not competition, so children can progress at their own pace. If you're unsure whether your child is ready, our coaches can assess their ability and recommend the best starting point.
Does my child need previous swimming experience?
Yes, some basic swimming ability is required before joining the Junior Squad. Children should already feel confident in the water and be able to swim unaided over short distances. This program builds on foundational skills by introducing more structured training and technique work. If your child is still gaining confidence, our learn-to-swim program is the best place to start before moving up.
What should my child bring to each session?
For each training session, your child will need swimwear, goggles, a towel and a water bottle. We also recommend a swim cap to help with comfort and visibility during practice. Kickboards and other training aids are usually provided, but feel free to check with our team in case specific equipment is needed. Arriving a few minutes early helps your child settle in and be ready to start on time.
Our Program Structure
Junior Squad is a group targeted at a “stroke development” focus. Training will centre around technique and skill development for all strokes and basic starts. Most sessions will focus on a “stroke of the day”, which rotates so that the stroke varies on any day. Generally, kick, stroke drills and technique work will be done in the “stroke of the day”.
The group will continue to learn training etiquette and what is expected of them to reach their potential. Sessions will emphasise technique development, stroke length and coordination, and will include water safety skills, social interaction and an element of fun. Sessions are approximately 45 minutes and are offered every afternoon, Monday to Friday.
Guidelines for Inclusion
Swimmers will usually be given a trial period to determine if they are suitable. Guidelines for inclusion in the Junior Squad program are listed below. Swimmers must demonstrate proficiency in Freestyle and Backstroke, and be able to swim at least one lap (25m) of Freestyle in under 1 minute and one lap (25m) of Backstroke in under 1 minute.
Swimmers must also demonstrate an ability to swim in a group and show respect for coaches and fellow swimmers.
Expectations of Swimmers
Cannonvale Swim Centre provides the perfect environment for young swimmers to build confidence, refine technique and improve fitness in a fun, supportive setting. The Junior Squad is ideal for those progressing from learn-to-swim lessons, offering a great way to stay active, make friends and enjoy the water. Swimmers should arrive ready to commence each session on time, prepared to make the most of their training. Please bring goggles, a water bottle if desired and fins to every session. Kickboards are supplied by the centre. With guidance from experienced coaches, each session supports steady skill development without the pressure of competition.
Promotion (Upgrading)
Junior Squad swimmers may be promoted to the Development Squad at the coach’s discretion, ensuring each swimmer is ready for the next level. Promotion is based on a combination of attendance, attitude and ability. Swimmers are expected to demonstrate consistent attendance as evidence of commitment to the program. A positive attitude is essential, including the ability to train respectfully in a group, listen carefully to instructions and give their best effort in every session. In terms of ability, swimmers must be able to complete 6 x 25 metres of each stroke, including skills and drills, on a one minute cycle without the use of fins.
Sessions & Timetables
Junior Squad sessions are designed with a strong focus on stroke development, helping swimmers refine technique, build coordination and improve overall efficiency in the water. Training typically centres on a stroke of the day, allowing swimmers to develop skills across all strokes through targeted drills, kick work and technique exercises. Basic starts and water safety skills are also included, along with guidance on training etiquette and expectations. Sessions run for approximately 45 minutes and are held every afternoon from Monday to Friday. Each session also encourages social interaction and includes an element of fun to keep swimmers engaged and motivated.
Junior Squad Benefits
The Junior Squad offers a range of benefits that go beyond swimming. Children improve their technique, build endurance and develop better coordination through regular, structured training. It’s a great way to stay active, promoting overall health and fitness in a fun and engaging environment. Swimmers also learn discipline, goal-setting and water safety skills, which build confidence both in and out of the pool. With supportive coaching and a team atmosphere, kids enjoy a sense of achievement as they progress.
The Junior Squad helps young swimmers stay motivated, make friends and form positive habits that can last a lifetime.
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