AQUAKIDS | swimzone

SQUADS

The Aqua-kids mini squad swim classes are structured around several ability-based squads. They are designed to develop correct technique for the junior swimmers and also improve and develop fitness after leaving learn to swim. After completing the Crocodiles swimming class and the mini squads, swimmers will be proficient in all 4 strokes, dives and turns, and have a basic understanding of swimming rules and principles and training. Before joining our programme, all new swimmers are assessed or attend lessons in the Crocodiles class to gain and achieve the necessary skills to move into the mini squads to focus on developing great fitness.

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 and supportive setting.

We create an environment where swimmers enjoy the water, move efficiently, and gain the courage to try new skills. Crocodiles is our foundational development squad -- ideal for young swimmers ready to build real confidence and begin shaping solid stroke technique. Every drill is intentional. Every session builds the habits that take them forward.

Suitable for swimmers approximately 6-9 years of age
30 minute swimming lessons

Mini Squads Overview

The Mini Squads are the exciting next step -- designed for confident, motivated swimmers aged 13 and under ready to take training further. These squads balance skill development, team culture, and early competition experience.

Graduates of Crocodiles typically move into this pathway, building fitness, race skills, and the discipline to train effectively. Mini Squads feed directly into Swimzone Racing, with opportunities to participate in six friendly meets per year.

**Key focus:** Teaching swimmers how to train, understand the pace clock, and work as a team in developing fitness and essential skills.

Mini Squad Pathway:

- Alligators

- Swordfish

- Stingrays
- Eagle Rays

ALLIGATORS

The Alligators swimming lessons continues on skills developed from a learn-to-swim classes to help the three strokes and introduces swimmers to Butterfly. Aligators swimming classes offers a more challenging distance to develop fitness and also introduces swimmers to novice racing if they are interested.

Suitable for swimmers approximately 7-13 years of age
45 minute Swimming lessons

SWORDFISH

Swordfish swimming lessons continues on skills developed from a learn-to-swim classes and introduces more developed and skilled drills for the junior swimmers as well as building fitness to a higher level. Piranhas swimming classes focuses also on novice racing, dives and turns and preparing swimmers for the Mini-Squads, water-polo and school swimming sports.

Suitable for swimmers approximately 8-13 years of age
45 minute sessions

STINGRAYS

Swimming classes for the Stingrays has more emphasis on endurance, perfecting technique and mastering competitive starts and turns. Basically the swimming lessons cross over into swimming workouts. Many swimmers at the Stingray level also become competition members of Swimzone Racing at this stage and attend TimeZones and local swim meets to gain experience. At this level swimming should be fun and is in no way intending that there is that expectation that they are training for the Olympics.Duration - 60 minutesRecommended attendance 1 - 2 times weekly Minimum attendance - once weekly SwimZone Racing membership - Club Swimmer Suitable for swimmers approximately 9-14 years of age

EAGLE RAYS

All members of this team are members or become members of Swimzone Racing and are starting to take swimming a little more seriously. There are also opportunities for swimmers to progress to more advanced competitive squads.Duration - 60 minutesRecommended attendance 2-3 times weeklyMinimum attendance - 2 times weeklySwimZone Racing membership - Competitive SwimmerSuitable for swimmers approximately 9-14 years of age

COMPETITION SQUADS

MANTA RAYS

Our top junior squad training for New Zealand Junior Champs. Most swimmers are between 10 - 12 years of age although we have some who are younger and older. Barracudas have 3-5 training sessions available per week with a recommended training commitment of at least 4 sessions per week and all swimmers are members of Swimzone Racing Swimming club.

MAKOS

Makos have normally graduated from the Barracudas and most swimmers are between 13 - 15 years of age. Most swimmers train for New Zealand Division II and New Zealand Age group champs. Makos have 4-5 training sessions available per week with a recommended training commitment of at least 5 sessions per week.

MARLINS

Marlins have normally graduated from the Makos and most swimmers are between 13 - 18 years of age. Must have qualified for New Zealand Age group champs. Marlins have 9 training sessions available per week with a recommended training commitment of at least 7 sessions per week.