SQUADS

SwimZone’s junior squad program is structured around ability-based groups that build technique, confidence, and fitness after children finish learn-to-swim. Our pathway develops swimmers step by step — from first squad experiences through to regional and national competition.

All new swimmers are assessed, or complete our Crocodiles class, before joining a squad. This ensures they have the foundations in place to progress safely and enjoyably.

Membership Options

Recreational Swimmer – usually the first year. Recreational swimmers can only compete in SwimZone Racing’s internal club meets (against SwimZone swimmers only). They cannot race against other clubs.
Competition Swimmer – can enter all swim meets, including local and regional events. This is common even for younger swimmers (e.g. 9 & unders at Wellington Champs).
Swimmers may join directly as Competition members if they wish, or start Recreational and upgrade later.

CROCODILES

The Crocodiles squad is the starting point of our SwimZone journey — perfect for young swimmers building comfort and confidence in the water. This group focuses on water safety, body awareness, and the foundations of technique in a fun, supportive setting. Every drill is intentional, building habits that last a lifetime.

Ages: approx. 6–9
Session length: 30 minutes
Membership: Recreational (first year) or Competition

Mini Squads Overview

Mini Squads (Alligators · Swordfish · Stingrays · Eagle Rays)

The Mini Squads are the next step for swimmers aged 7–13 who are ready to train further. These groups balance skill development, team culture, and early competition experience. Graduates of Crocodiles usually move into this pathway, learning to train effectively while enjoying fitness and fun.

Key focus: Teaching swimmers how to train, use the pace clock, and work as a team.
Mini Squads connect directly to SwimZone Racing, with friendly in-house galas every 6–8 weeks.

ALLIGATORS

Builds on Crocodiles with freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and an introduction to butterfly.
Develops fitness with longer sets.
Novice racing opportunities available.
Ages: approx. 7–13
Session length: 45 minutes
Attendance: 1–2 times per week (minimum 1)
Membership: Recreational (first year) or Competition

SWORDFISH

Expands skills with advanced drills, dives, and turns.
Builds higher-level fitness.
Introduces racing, water polo skills, and school swimming preparation.
Ages: approx. 8–13
Session length: 45 minutes
Attendance: 1–2 times per week (minimum 1)
Membership: Recreational (first year) or Competition

STINGRAYS

Focus on endurance, technique, and racing skills.
Swimmers begin attending TimeZone meets and local competitions.
Fun remains the priority — training is about enjoyment and steady improvement, not high mileage.
Ages: approx. 9–14
Session length: 60 minutes
Attendance: 1–2 times per week (minimum 1)
Membership: Competition

EAGLE RAYS

For swimmers ready to take training more seriously, with increased commitment.
Prepares swimmers for advanced competitive squads.
Ages: approx. 9–14
Session length: 60 minutes
Attendance: 2–3 times per week (minimum 2)
Membership: Competition

COMPETITION SQUADS

MANTA RAYS

Top junior squad, training toward New Zealand Junior Champs.
Ages: mostly 10–12 (some younger/older).
Sessions: 3–5 per week (recommended minimum 3).
Membership: Competition

MAKOS

Progression from Manta Rays/Eagle Rays.
Ages: 13–15.
Training toward NZ Division II and NZ Age Group Champs.
Sessions: 4–5 per week (recommended minimum 5).
Membership: Competition

MARLINS

Senior competitive squad, progression from Makos.
Ages: 13–18.
Must qualify for NZ Age Group Champs.
Sessions: up to 9 per week (recommended minimum 7).
Membership: Competition

DOLPHINS

Fitness-focused squad for ex-swimmers and water polo players who want to maintain swimming skills and fitness without competitive focus.

Ages: approx. 13–16
Sessions: 1–2 per week