PTBO swim club competitive streams are designed for development within the Athlete Development Matrix (ADM) published by Swimming Canada and supported by Swim Ontario. This matrix describes four pillars, physical capacities, psychological (mental) skills, technical skills and life skills. Swimmers progressed from a fundamentals stage to a Train to Compete stage. This is consistent with the age and maturity of those age groups primarily enrolled in the program.
All four strokes are expected within the five tiers of the competitive stream. In addition, athletes are expected to understand the basic elements of starts and turns. Strokes, turns and starts will evolve throughout the progression from the earliest competitive tier (AG devo) to the most advanced tier (Senior-elite). Swimmers are expected to attend competitive meets throughout the season. This includes home meets, invitational meets and championship meets (regional). Most swimmers attend between eight and twelve competitions between September and June. Additional meets may be attended if the swimmer has qualified for provincial or national level competitions.
All PTBO swim club participants are required to register with Swim Ontario. In addition, all coaches are required to be registered and affiliated with Swim Ontario and the Canadian Swimming Coaches Association. Many of our coaches are NCCP certified at the minimum standard of swimming 101. This program provides the opportunity to develop competency in the ADM, adhere to a coaching philosophy and codes of conduct. All coaches are also required to have a safe sport accreditation. This ensures that your swimmer has the best environment to develop and grow in a positive environment.
PTBO has a strong local tradition of swimmer development, meet hosting, and excellence in competitive swimming. We are committed to providing an environment that athletes can thrive and mature from novice swimmer to advanced swimmer, with the support of a knowledgeable coach and a supportive team of volunteers.
Should you have any questions about our competitive program, please feel free to contact Kent Crockower, PTBO swim club head coach at headcoach@ptboswimclub.com.