TOWS SQUAD

TWHST Open Water Squad Criteria

OW squad members must be :

• Full members of TWHST
• 11 years old + on date of first OW training session
• Member of Pink Performance, Pink, Blue or Silver Squad and have regular pool squad attendance.
• Priority will be given to members who have previously taken part in OW competitions or OW swimming.
• Application to join the OW squad should be made to the OW Coach.
• Commit to regular training and arrive on time.
• Enter nominated OW swimming competitions where possible (hold SE Swim Compete).

Other information:

• There will be an annual payment of £30 p/a
• Sessions at Carlton Lodge are FOC, but normal admission charges apply at Ellerton, including spectators and SUP.
• You must declare you are physically fit to swim OW (medical form)
• An OW registration form must be received before participation.
• A register will be taken for every session and you must sign in and out of the water.
• OW swimmers must understand that there are greater risks involved than pool swimming.  For example the water is colder, may lack visibility, have debris and wildlife present.
• Wetsuits must be worn below 18C degrees.
• There are a number of wetsuits available to borrow.
• All OW swimmers must wear a bright hat. (Hats available to borrow)
• Tow floats will be available to borrow, and must be worn if requested.
• Footwear should be worn up to the edge of the water.
• Warm clothing/dry robes/towels/woolly hats should be brought lake-side in a waterproof bag for after every session (and used).
• The venue risk assessment must be read before participation.
• Every OW swimmer must supply a spotter/helper/paddleboarder on a rota. If the rota is not complete there will be no swimming that session.  Helpers/swimmers must also commit to cleaning the changing rooms after use at Carlton Lodge.
• The venue rules must be respected, the TWHST codes of conduct apply.
• The coach or volunteers reserve the right to ask a swimmer to leave the session/squad.