RSC Update - Squad Structure Changes

Over the past couple of months, Carlos, alongside the committee, has been reviewing our current squad structure to ensure we are providing the best possible development pathway for every swimmer at Ringwood Swimming Club. While this will not impact all swimmers, we wanted to give families a clear understanding of the values and goals that have driven this change. 

We are pleased to share that from Term 2, 2026, RSC will be implementing a new squad structure.

Why the change?

Our current structure includes swimmers of various ages and abilities across multiple squads, which can make it challenging to consistently deliver age-appropriate skill development and provide a clear progression pathway.

The new structure has been designed to:

• Ensure there is a squad for every swimmer and every ability level

• Create age-group based squads that align with long-term athlete development

• Provide clear guidelines and expectations for swimmers and parents

• Establish defined performance benchmarks for progression

• Create structured competitive and development streams

As part of this restructure, each squad will have clear definitions around pathways, expectations, and criteria for movement between squads.

Squad Allocations

Over the next week, coaches will finalise assessments and allocate swimmers into squads based on:

• Age group

• Performance benchmarks (including JX and qualifying times where applicable)

• Coach discretion

• Attendance and commitment expectations

Families will be notified of their swimmer’s Term 2 squad placement prior to the end of term.

Term 2 Training Focus

In Term 2, the priority across all squads will be maximising pool time and race-specific preparation as we head into a key competition period.

Dry land will remain purposeful and high quality, supporting performance in the water without compromising swim volume or recovery. Specific dry land allocations will apply to National Target, State Age, Junior Talent and Senior Development squads, with activation sessions for other groups.

We believe this new structure provides:

• A clearer pathway from Foundation through to National level

• Stronger alignment between training and competition expectations

• Greater clarity for families

• Improved long-term swimmer development

If you have any questions regarding the new structure, please feel free to reach out. More detailed information will be shared in the coming weeks.

We are excited about the direction this sets for our club and look forward to seeing our swimmers thrive under this new framework in Term 2.

Kind regards,

RSC Executive Committee