Bushey Amateur Swimming Club- Assessments

BASC isa swimming club that exists to develop strokes and skills of our members so that they can achieve more in sport.

The club isnot an alternative to swimming lessons.

We compete in many Galas against other clubs and participate in swimming leagues. We also hold our own internal competitions and members are expected to join in these events. All competitions are judged against ASA swimming laws, our swimmers must perform the swimming stokes correctly.

BASC has sessions extending from the early stages of swimming to competitive coaching. We also award badges from national schemes.

The initial assessment will involve a short examination of the swimmers ability. Strokes, efficiency and skills will be considered and a decision made as to which of our sessions is most suitable for the individual being assessed.

It is important that swimmers are properly equipped for the assessment. Those with long hair must have swimming hats. Bikinis and baggy swim shorts are not permitted. Swimming goggles are recommended.

The club has a system in which swimmers progress through sessions as their swimming develops. These sessions are aimed at specific competencies of swimming to avoid mixed ability groups. They commence with widths sessions and progress on to lengths once skill and stamina are consistent.

The initial assessment allows us to judge where the ability of the swimmer in context of the club is and a session is allocated.

Some swimmers who have lessons with schools and pools where they are currently swimming lengths may not be initially swimming lengths if they are invited to join BASC. This is because first and foremost we ensure that the stroke is correct and shorter distances are more appropriate to developing style and stroke technique. Once the swimmer has fully accomplished the stroke longer distances are introduced to develop stamina and speed.

It is vital to develop the correct swimming technique and practice this until it is the automatic way for the swimmer.Practice makes permanent in this sport and it is essential to get as much as practice as possible as long as technique is right.Muscle has memory and will tend to repeat what it has done before.

Therefore, we particularly recommend for younger swimmers that they continue with their swimming lessons while waiting to join the club and also keep these going in the early stages with us.

Poolside Manager.