NOFIO CYMRU SWIM

Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013

Principal Partner Funding Partner O cial Partners

NOFIO CYMRU SWIM WALES Contents

Board Report ...... 2 - 4 Building the framework for Success ...... 6 - 9 Disabilty ...... 10 - 11 Report ...... 12 - 13 Education and Training ...... 14 Events & Volunteering ...... 15 Masters ...... 16 Performance ...... 18 - 19 Water Polo ...... 20 - 23 Safeguarding Standards ...... 24 Swim Wales Sport Science ...... 25 Accounts ...... 26 - 27 We all need to change to survive

The network of Swim Wales clubs directly impacts upon the lives of approximately 10,000 young Swim Wales Membership by Imagine a situation in a few years where all top primary school children can swim as a result people and adult volunteers. However, a quick analysis of our membership profile (see right) does Age; 2012-13 of the combined //Swim Wales initiatives and even a small suggest that our appeal is greatest to those who are 14 yrs and under. percentage of these individuals want to embark upon their preferred aquatic activity; what will Age Groups % Registered be the roles of our clubs who are largely focused upon competitive and what of those I’m sure that we can all read different things into these figures but the stark truth is the sport is Members fourteen year old club swimmers who are actively considering dropping out of the sport, has haemorrhaging membership by 14 years – and this is just the age when, as a nation, we should be Under 19% the combined resource of Swim Wales/ WG/Unitary Authorities/Swim Clubs developed a series encouraging young people to commit to a lifetime of healthy activity! 10 yrs of challenging opportunities to keep these young people actively involved in physical activity? We all need to understand that all leisure services, being a discretionary rather than statutory 11 - 14 yrs 45%* Obviously this early year’s drop-off is not recorded in our water polo and synchronised swimming obligation on the part of local authorities, are a natural target for cuts – unless of course we can clubs and therein lays a clue to our future. 15 - 17 yrs 11% demonstrate that “Aquatics” has a wide appeal across a region. 18 - 20 yrs 3% For the last 10 years the Welsh Government (WG) has been investing in free swimming The good news is All Welsh Local Authorities have signed up to the development of a local, 21 - 25 yrs 2% programmes across the nation with mixed results. Local Authorities certainly welcomed the comprehensive aquatic programme; the main reason being, it increases the usage of their most investment but, with a significant percentage of the population confirmed as “NON SWIMMERS” 26 - 30 yrs 1% expensive to maintain leisure facilities. Some of you will already be playing a very active and it would be either difficult or impossible for these large numbers to take advantage of this 31 - 40 yrs 4% committed part in this process but not all as yet. It does mean change but the outcome can programme. WG is now reviewing this initiative in partnership with Sport Wales and Swim Wales include a larger swimming base from which to attract talent (every child a swimmer); more 41 - 50 yrs 10% and a national “Learn-to-Swim” initiative is one of a number of likely outcomes from this work. “club members” involved in a broader and longer lasting relationship with water related Slowly but surely many Local Authorities are developing comprehensive “Learn-to-Swim” 51+ yrs 5% activities; more income; and a more contented Unitary Authority. programmes and the Swim Wales Aqua Passport programme is the key to the monitoring of all * 64% of our membership individuals involved in these initiatives. is 14 yrs and under During the course of this year Swim Wales will continue to broker discussions between groups of clubs, Unitary Authorities and other interested parties to develop comprehensive aquatic programmes and the most effective and efficient use of all pool time available within Wales. The purpose is to secure the longer term health of our sports in a rapidly changing sporting landscape where ever-growing numbers of our citizens are content with a more sedentary existence because the alternative maybe hard work and no fun! We all need to work in unison to change such a mindset.

As the Chairman has shown there are areas where we can have a real affect in conjunction with our pool providers, to both our benefits and we should all be concentrating on these major strands of our Strategic Plan.

2 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 3 Aqua Passport has been launched during the year and at the time of writing we have 11 Local Authorities and 12,000 new associate members joining Swim Wales through this scheme. Thanks should go to our COO, Mark Arnold and our Regional Business Managers for their sterling work in making Aqua Passport the great success we are sure it will be. A Special vote of thanks should also be extended to Sport Wales who have fully supported the development of Aqua Passport. Clubs should contact their RBM to ensure the pathway between Aqua Passport and club is as resilient as possible as this will lead to healthier clubs.

I am sure you have now all seen or are aware of the new Welsh Learn to Swim Scheme which encompasses suggestions on a more flexible and meaningful awards scheme for the whole of Wales.

We have also had success on the performance side of our sport where Jemma Lowe, Georgia Davies, Nyree Kindred, Elizabeth Johnson, Rhiannon Henry, David Davies, IeuanLloyd and Morgyn Peters represented Wales in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Unfortunately this was the swansong for David who retired from competitive swimming after the games. David thank you very much for all of your wonderful performances and tremendous ambassadorial role for Wales. However, David’s experience is not lost to us and he will in the future play a role in assisting our performance team where he can.

It is also very pleasing to see Jazz Carlin return to form after such a horrendous 2012, Jazz was selected along with Georgia, Jemma and Ieuan for the World Championships this year.

Jack Thomas and Morgyn Peters made the IPC World Championships Team.

Our strategy to develop up to 11 Performance clubs continues with Torfaen Dolphins being formed during the year.

Our targets for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2014 is 7 medals, such a number has never before been achieved and will require continued focus by all of our athletes and coaches.

Swim Wales Board undertake reviews of our Strategic Plans at each meeting; we are on track but to ensure success for the future the plans must be adopted and actioned by all of our members.

Board Report Roger Eady – Chairman Robert James - Chief Executive Officer.

4 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 5 Building the framework for Success LTS

2012/13 has been an exciting year for Swim Wales in terms of new development programme’s We are pleased that the Learn to Swim rates as reported by Sport Wales have improved from and growth. We have been busy creating the framework and implementing the structures needed 68% to 75% this year, however we know we need to do a lot more to get to our ‘Every Child A for aquatics in Wales and trying to deliver our ‘Every Child A Swimmer by 2020’ goal that we Swimmer’ goal. This includes support and buy-in from education to enable School Swimming to share with all partners across Wales. be effective across the nation.

Whilst effective Learn to Swim and School Swimming provides the bedrock for a stronger society Swim Wales have launched a new Learn to Swim framework that replaces the ASA version. Our in Wales in terms of safety, health and fitness, we want to encourage the kids who learn to swim goal was to produce a plan that was fit for purpose in Wales, we have developed this plan through to stay in aquatics after they complete their lessons and participate in aquatic fitness and sports heavy consultation with partners. We have successfully started to implement this new for the rest of their lives. LTS across Wales with great feedback!

Having a strong Learn to Swim programme and a fit for purpose School Swimming structure in Wales, will also benefit our club structure. More children able to swim and enjoy their experience will mean more children wanting to join clubs and continue their aquatic journey in a club environment.

It is for these reasons that we have also looked to build stronger links from Learn to Swim to clubs and review our goals for club structures in Wales moving forward.

We recognise the challenges on pool time many clubs face. As a result of this we are trying to:

1). Forge stronger links with the Local Authorities,

2). adopt a more collaborative approach between all parties to make our pool time as effective as it can be and

3). make the club structures efficient and strong to enable us to come out of the financially challenging times ahead stronger than ever.

The plan is split into 3 distinct areas: Splash, Waves and Skills. This provides the framework to take a child from a baby through to early competitive levels if they so wish.

The plan is supported by a fresh design, with certificates and badges, however the main difference to any other plan in the world is the interactive online engagement it provides to children and parents.

6 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 7 Aqua Passport - Membership: a revolutionary NEW interactive Learn to Swim experience 2011: 14,248 Using the latest digital technology, Aqua Passport delivers benefits for everyone – leisure centres, 2012: 21,950 swimming teachers, parents and children. The goal of Aqua Passport is to engage a child in their swimming lesson to make it more fun, that way more children will be interested in joining and Membership continues to grow and we have broken through the 20,000 mark for the more will see their lessons through to the end. first time ever!

Features include Clubs: • Touch screen tablet with waterproof case for swimming teachers to use on poolside Our RBMs continue to work with our clubs and Local Authority partners to strengthen the clubs • Interactive website where children can play games and gain trophies as they and partnerships in Wales. We look to grow stronger links from Learn to Swim to clubs and local progress in the pool Authorities that join Aqua Passport will be able to signpost and promote the clubs in the area so that all children coming out of Learn to Swim can find out more. • Online reporting and resources for parents We are seeing a good improvement in depth of standard at our national and regional meets. We have implemented this into a number of Local Authorities Learn to Swim Schemes with Our Summer Nationals is now the second biggest event in the British calendar and offers a commitment to expand this over the next 6 months. We are also working on a school version in depth of competition to our swimmers. which we hope to have a stronger influence into the delivery of school swimming across Wales. We also introduced Live Streaming at this event where we were able to promote the event and the sport around the world!

We have also started our first multi aquatic club in Swansea where sports such as Water Polo, Diving, Synchronised Swimming and Open Water join the established and strong swimming group. We see this multi aquatic, bigger club with links to the Local Authority and Swim Wales, as a strategy for the future.

Conclusion

Adopting an integrated aquatic structure in Wales across all aspects of the sport from pre Learn to Swim through competitive and fitness swimming will not be easy. It will take collaboration of all partners, Local Authorities, private providers, Sport Wales, Education, Leisure, Aquatic clubs, teachers, parents and Swim Wales.

Failing to take some of the challenges head on and to adopt change in the sport will result in us going backwards quickly. External influences such as funding cuts and a lack of pool space will mean tough decisions need to be made. I am confident if we take these challenges head on we will leave a legacy behind for future generations in Wales to see learning to swim as a right and having every opportunity to excel in the sport if they so wish.

Mark Arnold Chief Operating Officer

8 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 9 Disability

2012 was billed as being the biggest year for sport that we would have ever seen in this country We acknowledged, for those swimmers that needed a disability exclusive club, there were not and in terms of the impact it had on Paralympic sport, I think it will mark a major turning point of enough sufficient opportunities that offered them the competitive coaching that would give how disability sport will be viewed for years to come. them what they needed to make it to the highest level. As such, the following have become key areas for the Swim Wales Disability Swimming programme: One moment summed up how much of an impact London 2012 had on the way that Paralympic swimming has moved on and it wasn’t in London! It was at Wales National Pool. 100’s of school • Providing a clear Talent Development pathway children were given the chance to take part in aquatic activities alongside some of the GB stars. As each of the athletes were introduced to all of the children, the announcer asked all of the children • A progressive link from stage to stage of the pathway “who is the most famous swimmer that Wales has ever produced?” and in almost harmony a name rang out “ELLIE SIMMONDS!”. The swimmer being introduced was David Davies, but in spite of • Clubs and Coaches as best prepared as possible to support swimmers the unfortunate faux pas, it illustrated that the Paralympics had a profound effect on the next generation. This was something that we were prepared for and as a consequence, have built upon. As a result of this the following are currently in place:

• Inspire Talent Programme – for swimmers aged between 9 and 14yrs of age to improve Elite Performance and develop their techniques and skills and to prepare them with basic sports education. This programme started with 5 swimmers and over a 9 month period has grown into a We are now beginning to see the work that has been done over the last few years come good. squad of 16 potentially talented swimmers (with 3 having moved onto the Home Nation London 2012 saw the start of the future of Welsh Paralympic swimming coming through, and Talent Programme). it was just the start. Morgyn Peters made Paralympics GB team and came 5th in the S9 100 backstroke at 16yrs old. Morgyn, who is now based in Swansea, has come through the Swim • Disability Academies – Disability swimming academies have been set up to ensure that Wales Disability programme. In addition to Morgyn, Jack Thomas has emerged as one of the swimmers with more severe physical disabilities are given the same chance of competitive leading swimmers in the World for the S14 classification. Although he narrowly missed out on training as those that can be placed into an integrated mainstream environment. These qualification for London 2012, he is currently ranked in the top 3 for the 100 backstroke and in academies have been set up in the Vale of Glamorgan, Ceredigion and an additional the top 8 for the 200 freestyle and, along with Morgyn, is a member of the GB team heading to programme being put together in Wrexham. the IPC World Championships in Canada this summer. • Smarter promotion – The long term plan for increasing the number of swimmers that are accessing the pathway comes down where we are able to reach the target groups. Swimmer World Class ID days were good for finding 1 or 2 swimmers at a time, but like anything, the more we have to choose from the more likely we will find the swimmers that will progress higher. Wales has 3 swimmers on the World Class Podium Potential programme. Ffion Butler, Jonathan This has meant working on forming better partnerships with Paediatric physiotherapy, Eke and Ryan West have all made the consideration times that place them onto occupational therapy and rehabilitation centres and more collaboration work with funded programmes. Ryan West, who is targeting a place at the Commonwealth Games in National Disability Sport Organisations. Glasgow, has seen his World Ranking improve enough for him to be placed in the World’s top 20 for the S9 100 freestyle, his time placing him within 0.1 sec of Glasgow 2014 qualification. Suggestions moving forward

Home Nation Talent To keep moving forward, we will be working towards the following:

Wales currently has 5 swimmers that are on the Home Nation Talent, which feeds into the British • Swimmers being supported in relation to their stage of development Swimming World Class programmes. Of note, 3 of those swimmers are aged 12 and under and are perfectly situated to push on to make the consideration times for World Class. With the growing • National Performance Development programme to move swimmers into success of the Swim Wales Disability Swimming pathway, we are targeting that this will double high performance/elite stages within the next year. • More Classification opportunities

Swimmer Identification • Swimmers being highlighted by clubs

The legacy for the Paralympics had started before a torch had been lit in London. We looked • More diverse competitions for swimmers at various levels at this as an opportunity to jump on the back of a wave that would build as the momentum grew and the legacy that we worked towards was to make sure that every child in Wales with a disability has the opportunity to take part in the sport, at whatever level. That no matter how severe or mild their disability was, if they wanted to take part in swimming, the opportunity Huw Griffiths would be there. Disability Swimming Manager

10 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 11 Diving Report

Talent Development Manager for Diving Competitive

Increase of participation and quality at Rhondda Cynon Taf (“RCT”) and Carmarthenshire’s Due to reduced numbers of Club volunteers competitive participation has been reduced slightly diving scheme training squads required an increase to training hours for active competitive level so far this year. Top 5 placement at National Skills finals in Plymouth this year by Aberdare Comets athletes. With the confirmation of funding for the National Talent Identification Scheme, the divers is the highest ranking position achieved to date by Welsh teams. Welsh clubs have had projected additional participation combined with participation increases offered an opportunity active participation at events in Bangor, Dublin Southampton, Leeds and Harrogate this year with to create an additional full time partnership coaching role between RCT, Carmarthenshire and increase top 10 rankings across the board. Swim Wales. The ‘Talent Development Manager’ role for diving was created to support the management of regional and National talent Squads for Swim Wales and manage the internal Celtic Novice Cup: This 3 Nations annual event is a focus for development of all parts of our talent groups at the RCT and Carmarthenshire programmes. Charles Calvert, ex GB senior Diver competitive structure. The Welsh Team placed a very close second to Scotland missing first place and former British Champion was recruited in March from Leeds’ diving programme to fill the role. by 9 points (Sadly due to an injury of one diver Wales dropped 10 points). The standard of diving The direct benefits to Swim Wales and each of the programmes over the 5 months in post are is comparable between Scotland and Wales, This is a positive as Scotland have had full time clearly visible through the increased level of performance of athletes at each of the programmes development positions for the last 8 years. Next year the event will be held in Scotland. including our first National Medals at Skills finals and in the stabilisation of each regional training squad through now being able to maintain high quality consistent coaching which was previously unachievable due to the standard of diving exceeding the current standard internally educated Facility Development coaches. The role is a positive step in ensuring sustainability and development of the sport long term within Wales. Plans for redevelopment of each of the regions facilities through Sports Wales grants are currently being finalised with Dive Gym Equipment after a consultation period with each of the councils. The grant includes a total rebuild of Platforms, refit of the spring boards and installation of new National Talent Identification in School Project dry training facilities that will bring the facilities online with the minimum facility requirements stipulated by British Diving for Talent Development. This grant aims to be complete by the end September 2013 sees the launch of the Kelloggs National Talent Identification in schools of September 2013. project lead by the Swim Wales Talent Development Manager for Diving. In 2011 a trial of this style of schools testing was run in RCT. The benefits to the RCT diving development scheme where represented by a 40% increase in overall participation. Two years on, six of the top Aims for 2014 performing divers nationally come from this group. The 2013 project aims to test in three regions, Carmarthenshire, Gwynedd and Rhondda Cynon Taf. Over sixty schools have joined the scheme, • TID participation in 4 regions – Over 4000 participants totalling over three thousand pupils from years three, four and five. Testing will run between September and November with 3 regional Talent Development squads being created by January • Run level 2 diving Teachers qualification 2014. These squads will create the foundation for a National Talent Squad targeting performance • Compete in 3 National Age Group level events at Junior Elite Level within 4 years. The project also aims to increase participation through raising awareness about local diving schemes. Each participant receives a free diving session at their local • Establish Age group Diving competition in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire diving centre. This project will run annually. • Establish Novice Diving Competition in Llanelli

Events • Establish Masters Competition in Bangor, Gwynedd • Increase National Participation by 40% Bangor Novice Diving Competition: The Bangor Novice Diving competition is in its third year and is growing steadily in participation and prestige. The event was developed to offer competition • 1 Additional full time coach in Rhondda Cynon Taf within the principality and act as a Welsh national novice championship, monitoring Welsh Novice athlete progress. The 2013 event has attracted 7 teams including Leeds and Plymouth with over 90 participants in total. This has been a steady increase in diver numbers starting 57 year 1 and 80 Year 2. We are aiming for over 100 participants in 2014. Ben Fox Diving Development Manager Bangor Olympic Flame training camp: This training camp was aimed at junior Novice divers currently unable to compete Nationally. The event consists of cross over training sessions, diving and offers junior divers the opportunity to experience away trips with teams.

12 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 13 Education & Training Events & Volunteering

2012 – 13 has proved to be another busy year for us with over 50 UKCC courses taking place covering both Level 1 and Level 2 and including Teaching Aquatics, Coaching Swimming and Events Coaching Water Polo. Over 400 learners have successfully completed these courses and we have averaged 15 learners per Level 1 courses and 11 learners per Level 2 course. The year 2013 has shown that our national events are moving in the right direction to achieve the aspiration of ‘’World Class Events & World Class People’’. The successful delivery of this year’s We face increasing challenges in meeting the regulatory requirements in a rapidly changing and programme and the continued increase of competitors in 2012/13 have demanded a change in accountable education landscape as well as new initiatives intended to ‘professionalise’ the workforce. delivery style to ensure we continue to offer a swimmer focused competition. We appreciate the support of our clubs and coaches in making the level of competition the highest it has ever been. • The introduction of National Occupational Standards aims to describe the specific role of Each event is growing in competitive numbers and quality to ensure Wales builds a reputation of what an individual needs to do in order to carry out the particular function or role and will delivering quality events that can draw in swimmers from across the UK. We now have in place a help drive more robust planning, delivery and evaluation by those with responsibility for strong event delivery team who ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently and I would like teaching or coaching aquatic sessions. to thank these people for their valued support.

• The introduction of the Register of Aquatic Professionals aims to drive professionalism Gemau Cymru, the multi sport event for young Welsh athletes has now been run for 3 years and throughout the aquatic sector and will offer assurance to operators and the public that has become an integrated part of the event programme. This event gives development swimmers individuals on the register hold valid and recognised qualifications. This will be a new and across Wales the opportunity to participate in a national event held in Cardiff and has become a independent register for all those active in the aquatics sector. It will be operated and very popular meet for people to attend. managed by Skills Active and will provide a regulatory system to ensure that all active within the aquatics sector meet the agreed National Occupational Standards. A pilot of the Swim Wales Events would like to thank all the people involved in this year’s events programme scheme is currently underway in England. These will help fulfil the Sport Wales strategic aim and would especially like to thank all the volunteers and officials who dedicate their time freely of building a skilled and passionate workforce. to make all this possible.

• We have modified our approach to Quality Assurance somewhat in the past year reflecting the lack of formal external examinations within the modified UKCC qualifications and Volunteers the wish to maintain the integrity of the qualification. We hope this will lead to Quality Improvement in both the delivery and assessment of the UKCC qualifications. Volunteering in Swim Wales has shown a steady increase again this year with the Hour Bank Scheme monitoring the hours volunteers are giving to the sport and providing a way for Swim Our Tutor workforce are also facing new challenges as the education landscape changes with Wales to say thank you. A number of clubs have benefited from free courses and entry fees by the regulatory requirements and alterations made to the Tutor/Assessor qualifications – this will recording their hours. A revamp of the Hour Bank site has enabled more people to register and an eventually lead to teaching and learning plans for the Tutor workforce. ongoing upgrade will make the site much easier to use. If you would like to register please go to: www.swimwaleshourbank.co.uk We continue to be challenged by Sport Wales to meet the aim of a skilled and passionate workforce and part of this includes the production of a robust National Education Plan – this is Swim Wales Young Officials programme has now provided over 50 young people with support proving to be a significant challenge, reflecting the challenging financial climate we are currently through the officiating pathway and has an established group of young volunteers who regularly experiencing. Local Authorities have been tasked with completing a workforce audit covering attend national and regional events as well as making exchange visits across the UK. both learn to swim & local club aspects, this will help to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each LA aquatics programme and will lead to a specific and local education plan. In October 2012 Swim Wales held their Awards Evening which recognises and celebrates the achievements and successes of a range of people involved in the sport. The nomination Finally I would like to highlight our wish to recruit tutors for Water Polo and Diving and hope that categories were: should you have experience in either discipline you might consider coming forward as a Tutor of UKCC Courses. 1. Female Senior Swimmer 8. Master Swimmer 2. Female Junior Swimmer 9. Water Polo Player P.R. John-Pearse 3. Male Senior Swimmer 10. Team Education Manager 4. Male Junior Swimmer 11. Performance Coach 5. Male Disability Swimmer 12. Volunteer Coach 6. Female Disability Swimmer 13. Volunteer 7. Junior Disability Swimmer 14. Unsung Hero

Please see the Awards Evening page on our website for all the winners in 2012. 2014 will be the next Awards Evening so please keep an out for further communication and help support us support you.

Leisa Forrest Events & Volunteer Manager

14 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 15 Masters

Masters swimming in Wales continues to have its ‘ups’ and ‘downs’.

Participation in Masters specific training sessions or Adult ‘lane swimming’ sessions appears to be at a fairly healthy level. Whether this is increasing or decreasing is difficult to quantify, yet it remains at an encouraging level.

Participation at Master specific events (whether these be local to Wales or at UK National level) appears to be declining and has done for a couple of years. This could, of course, just be a sign of the times as travel, accommodation and entry fees do not tend to go down.

This decline has necessitated several changes in the Masters world within Wales.

Firstly, a partial re-brand has taken place to try and include ‘Leisure Centre’ swimmers under the Master’s umbrella. This will not occur overnight, and will need co-operation by all parties.

Secondly, the Welsh Masters galas have undergone some necessary changes. The Long Course has been cut to a 2 day event (sadly losing the 1500m Freestyle in the process). The Short Course event was resurrected in 2012 following the 2011 cancellation and was run as a joint event with the Welsh Capital Masters (which itself was looking at possible cancellation). The long running Arfon Masters continues its successful run, and the Carmarthen Masters Postal Swim offers swimmers an opportunity to swim the 1500m Freestyle at their own relative convenience.

With regards to Welsh Masters records – 55 were set in a variety of events (21 male, 29 female and 5 relay).

Terry John Secretary to the Masters Committee

16 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 17 Performance

2012 was dominated by the London Olympics and whilst we can be very proud of the five Welsh have had the talent to become International Swimmers. I am also very frustrated that many of Selections – Georgia Davies, Jemma Lowe, David Davies, Marco Loughran and Ieuan Lloyd we the anti Swim Wales Performance Strategy also peddle the myth that Performance Swimming must recognise that Britain as a Swimming Nation did not make its medal target. Jemma Lowe cannot cater for swimmers who wish to remain in the sport and compete at their own level. The was one of Britain’s 23 finalists and should be proud of achieving at this level but along with Swimming Pathway if correctly implemented can cater for everyone particularly if clubs in close the rest of the Britain Team not satisfied as we only on 3 occasions moved from finalists to geographical areas combine their resources and coaching staff. The future of Welsh Swimming is the podium. The subsequent British Swimming Review means that British Swimming will see not in developing smaller clubs but having fewer clubs with bigger single memberships. its Lottery Funding cut which will have a major impact on Swimming in Wales particularly the Swansea ITC and the City of Cardiff SC Club Funding. British Swimming have also appointed During the past twelve months Swim Wales has had the benefit of employing a Full Time Sports a new National Performance Director Chris Spice and Head Coach so not only will Science Manager and certainly this has become a major impact on both our National Teams and there be challenges for them in terms of restructuring the British Swimming Strategy to the Rio Performance Centre, however, we still have a long way to go in terms of getting our coaches and Olympics but also developing working relationships with each of the Home Countries as we build swimmers to realise that sports science is an integral part of the daily training environment. In the towards the 2014 Commonwealth Games. modern sporting environment there is no room for not doing everything correctly. If our Swim Team for Glasgow is to achieve their medal target of seven medals then they must ensure that Whilst the Olympics has been the main focus for many of our Senior Elite Swimmers I am pleased they do everything possible to maximise their potential. May I take this opportunity to thank the to report that our Youth and Regional Programmes have continued to improve and whilst the Sports Wales Sports Science Support Staff for their input and support to our National Programme. numbers achieving squad times has fallen slightly the standard of our Squads is now at an all time high. Congratulations should be extended to Ellena Jones who has been selected for the European The next twelve months will be challenging for everyone coaches, swimmers, volunteers, officials Junior Championships Team and Rebecca Dalling who has been selected for the European Youth and paid staff however I am sure we will all rise to the challenges ahead and make 2014 our most Olympic Festival Team. Our Squads have continued to compete in International Competitions successful year. and we are continually looking at trying to improve the level of Competition for our performance squads. This year the Celtic Tri Nations was held in East Kilbride Scotland and whilst there were no Finally I would like to thank David Davies who has now retired from competition, he is without swim down facilities and the pool was very narrow our swimmers competed exceptionally well in doubt Wales’ Greatest Ever Swimmer and combined with his excellence both in and out of the challenging circumstances to win the competition on the very last relay event of the meet. Next pool we have inducted David as the first ever Swimmer into the Swim Wales Hall of Fame. All season we are sending our Senior Elite Swimmers to the US Open Nationals as part of a tough swimmers are aware that their coach will have also contributed to their successes so have also preparation meet for the Commonwealth Games, it is also my intention in the next year to send inducted Dave Haller as the first coach into the Hall of Fame to honour his lifetime achievements our Regional Swimmers to a higher standard European Meet and fast track our Youth Swimmers in swimming. into Senior International Competitions. On the domestic competition front both our Inter County Teams were promoted to Division One of the ASA Inter Counties Meet and we finished fourth in Martyn Woodroffe the UK Schools Games Competition which was held in the London Olympic Pool. National Performance Director

I reported in last year’s report that we would be looking at our own domestic competition structure which included restructuring the Winter and New Year Meets and I am pleased to report that the changes have proved popular with coaches and clubs so we will be staying with this format for the next few seasons. We have also kept the same format for the Gemau Cymru Competition and this now seems to be successfully embedded in our competition calendar. The Summer National Event has grown steadily over the years to the extent that in 2013 we have extended the meet to 7 days, which proved very attractive, with entry levels increasing year on year. We are also in 2013 introducing a development meet for younger swimmers aptly named The Legends Meet this will complete our domestic calendar by being able to offer competition to all our swimmers at appropriate levels. May I take this opportunity to thank Leisa Forrest and her army of dedicated volunteers and technical officials who have worked tirelessly to ensure that our meets are as well organised as any meets in the world.

As you are aware the strategy across Wales has been to professionalise coaching within a performance environment. Against the background of Unitary Authority funding cuts this work has proved to be increasingly challenging in maintaining and developing our Performance Centres / Clubs. We have successfully restructured Torfaen Dolphins to ensure that we did not lose a professional coaching post and are looking at a similar situation in Flintshire. We are also slowly extending our partnership programmes with our Performance Clubs and Unitary Authorities to ensure that they remain in good health for the future. I would say at this point that there are still several individuals within some clubs that should be supporting the Performance Club Structure that are actively working against the Swim Wales Strategy. These individuals should and must be held to account in the future as many youngsters passing through their clubs will not have had the opportunity to fulfil their potential and without doubt some of these youngsters would

18 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 19 Water Polo

For water polo in Wales 2012/13 has been a good year. The number of athletes, coaches and This year Carmarthen WPC for the second time held the top spot clubs have increased and this is the first year that the junior program, created by Csaba Rull three in the U17’s age group, led by Steffan Williams the team saw off years ago, has been able to have a direct impact on the Senior teams in the British League and in a strong attempt by Welsh Wanderers in Cardiff, however in their the Welsh senior squads. home town Carmarthen were clear winners giving them the trophy.

Now that Csaba has returned to his home town of Eger in Hungary to develop their professional Welsh Wanderers won at U15’s, with Cwm Draig a very close second as ladies water polo program the onus turns to the Welsh coaching staff to continue the good work it all came down to the final match between Welsh Wanderers and Cwm developing the . Now there is a staff of over 20 coaches working towards growing Draig in Aberdare where Wanderers managed to hold the line against a the club and national program across the country. physical Cwm Draig team.

In the U13’s Welsh Wanderers are holding the top position at the half way stage, Tri-Nations 2012 and their lead appears to be too great to catch at this point. Second place is a very close contest between Newport and Cwm Draig and with fixtures placed for August the This was the first year that Wales have hosted and competed in the new Tri-Nations competition results will be posted on the Swim Wales website. in all four categories, alongside Scotland and Ireland. With both senior and junior women entering the competition. The tournament was run fantastically by Darryl Ward (Cwm Draig) and Barrie Swift (Newport) and all 3 Nations enjoyed a great weekend thanks to Parkwoods, Cardiff Bristol & West League International Pool. Newport WPC have now entered the Bristol and West League at the senior level bringing more For the junior men it was a closer competition than last year, winning the competition on a goal game time to their players, led by the experiences James Farror, one of the two senior men’s difference of one goal alone. They comfortably beat Scotland, however Ireland played well and goalkeepers. This is the first time in over 6 years that Newport have competed and have a big held them to a 7 – 7 draw, meaning the result against Scotland was vital. team. Their results have improved through the season and they expect a middle of the table finish.

Junior women won their first ever international against Scotland 18 -7 thanks to an excellent Cwm Draig have joined Welsh Wanderers at the junior level this year and have enjoyed the start going 5 – 0 up in the first quarter, but couldn’t find the target against Ireland, losing 15 – 9, additional games time available against new opposition, they’re currently sitting two places below coming second. Welsh Wanderers in 6th of 8 with only a few matches left to play.

The Senior men and women both had a much harder time of it, both coming third on this occasion by narrow margins. Ireland won the men’s and Scotland the women giving the British League competition win to Ireland thanks to their senior men and junior women. Welsh Wanderers are currently the only Welsh team in the BWPL and have had their highest standing at the end of the season in both men’s and women’s teams. Welsh Clubs The men finished 7th and have gained promotion back to division 1, narrowly Wales has in recent years continued a fantastic growth, this year Welsh Wanderers and Swim missing out on winning the league due to a strong performance by London Wales have banded together to form Swansea Water Polo, part of the new Swansea aquatics club. Penguin, who while dropping points to Sheffield managed to edge out Welsh Swansea has a fantastic history in water polo, with Welsh Senior men’s captain Nigel Davies and Wanderers 10 – 7 in Bristol breaking Wanderers undefeated record, which his older brother (now a Swansea Coach) Mike Davies both being from Swansea. This has brought proved to be the deciding match of the season. the number of clubs in Wales up to five that are all now competing in the Welsh League which is coming into its third year, starting with U17’s in September, and will be bigger than ever with each club aiming to compete in all three age groups.

20 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 21 The women finished 11th in the most The Welsh senior program has now started preparing for the Commonwealth Water Polo competitive of all leagues having close Championships in Scotland, both men and women squads of 20 athletes are training twice a margins in all their matches. This is their month. Already the men have competed in the 6 Nations in Switzerland; a team of 15 men were highest finish again and with the results away with Rohan Monico for a weekend competition, having not competed internationally since so close there is a real chance to improve the 2006 Commonwealths they had a slow start, however excellent performances against the on this next season. Coach Alan Rotsey is Czech Republic 16 – 14 and Austria 7 – 5 showed that the team are catching up fast. clearly making a difference here as the team continues to climb through the standings each year.

British Championships

The Welsh Wanderers men regained their spot in the British Championships, relishing the chance to return to competition with the top eight clubs in the UK. The first two games against Bristol and Lancaster were a shock to the system after a season in the lower division, however when meeting Penguin in their final game they out played them winning the game 13 – 9 and earning a rank of 6th in the UK.

Great Britain Team Team (left to right) Back Row: Matthew Veale (Bristol), Oliver Newcombe (Wanderers), Sam Legge (Wanderers), This year just one from Wales has competed for Great Britain and that is Lewis Jones from James Farror (Newport WPC), Dan Laxton (Carmarthen). Front Row: Rohan Monico (Team Manager, Welsh Wanderers), Carmarthen. He competed with the U17 GB team who played in the European Championships. Chris Taylor (Bristol), Chris Wyatt (Carmarthen), Nigel Davies Capt. (Wanderers), Chris James (Carmarthen), Carl Wyatt (Bristol), Dan Jones (Carmarthen), Steffan Williams (Carmarthen), Jack Arthur (Cheltenham), Lewis Jones (Carmarthen), He was one of 13 men that competed in Turkey, and came within one result of qualifying, Ryan Jones (Wanderers) unfortunately losing in their final game against the hosts.

This team consisted of 6 from the junior programme that started just 3 years ago, all of whom National Program competed fantastically.

The Welsh program has continued to expand; the monthly clinic sessions have grown and now Currently the Welsh Seniors and U17 teams are preparing for the 2013 Tri-Nations, where they accommodate an even wider range of ages. Anyone as young as 10 are welcome in the Academy will hope to improve on their place from last year by winning the competition. Results to be session that will teach the basic skills and introduce athletes to the Welsh squads when they are published on the Swim Wales website. ready. If anyone is interested in joining please contact [email protected].

This is the first year that both genders have entered all age group competitions and the results are Conclusion improving across the board. Wales water polo is continuing to move in the right directions, the gap between the English clubs and the Welsh has closed, demonstrated by the increased involvement and competition with England. Athletes and parents remain committed and the juniors which have left for university are now being retained as senior athletes, and are at the core of the senior program which includes those competing in the British League.

We have continued to host competitions and are now recognised by the England programme, who are taking on more of our athletes into the GB programme both at youth level and at seniors, which demonstrates that not only is the programme growing in numbers but also raising the quality.

Rohan Monico Welsh Water Polo Performance Leader

22 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 23 Safeguarding Standards Swim Wales Sport Science

In June 2013 Swim Wales presented for Level 3 in Safeguarding and Protecting at Sport Wales in Swim Wales appreciates the importance of Sport Science in aquatics to aid the development Cardiff and were delighted to achieve the standard required following their assessment with The and improvement of elite swimming performance. One year on since the role of Sport Science Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) and Sport Wales. manager was established many sport science protocols and support have been implemented.

We were acknowledged as one of a handful of sports leading the way for others to follow. Swim Wales performance centres based across all of Wales now receive sport science support which includes physiology, nutrition, strength and conditioning and video analysis with a structured Our Welfare Officers, Time to Listen courses were commended and Swim Wales at the time were program in place, aiming to be further developed through the support of a studentship programme. the only sport in Wales with their own tutor qualified to deliver the course. We have already run Additional sport science support is provided to all swimming squad members at training camps 3 courses and 3 more are scheduled for November and December of this year providing valuable and competitions based across Wales and also on international trips. Future support will promote training to Club Welfare Officers. The courses have provided a welcome opportunity for WO’s to physiological monitoring and educational resources to be developed and utilised across Wales. meet people from other clubs and share best practises. Over the next year the focus of sport science will be directed towards the Elite Commonwealth Swim Wales have an appointed person in their offices for all welfare concerns and the Y Plant Games swimmers. To assist in the monitoring of our elite swimmers we now have SwimZone

Swim Wales Child Safeguarding policy for Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Vulnerable Adults provides guidance to club in place that is a fully operational online database system that allows all of the swimmers to Policy & Procedures Welfare Officers and club members. The Y Plant policy can be found on the Swim Wales website. complete daily monitoring. Currently, this project is expanding to establish areas of nutrition and

strength and conditioning, providing a portal where information to help improve performance will

Swim Wales also recommends clubs have a copy of Safe Sport Away which provides information be posted and accessed by all swimmers. Additionally several of our swimmers based in Swansea for clubs when travelling with their members. A copy can be obtained through the CPSU website. are currently participating in a PhD project to identify physiological responses and the impact of a heavy training schedule on immune responses. This is an exciting project aiming to impact on those swimmers preparing for Glasgow 2014.

Disclosure and Barring – formerly Criminal Records Bureau; The Swim Wales updated Child Protection Policy is now avail- able on our website www.welshasa.co.uk Please look in about us/ policies Natalie Williams

Following recent changes to the application process for applicants requiring a DBS check Swim Sports Scientist

SWIM WALES Wales have registered with an online service. This has improved the timescales for completing the Wales National Pool Phone: 01792 513641 Sketty Lane Fax: 01792 513637 Swansea E-mail: [email protected] SA2 8QG checks, in some cases as little as 48 hours. As the applicant will only receive a certificate we are with the new service able to see whether the certificate is without any disclosures.

Swim Wales considers Safeguarding to be of the utmost importance and cannot stress enough the need for all club members involved with children to attend the recommended Safeguarding course every 3 years. Why not join forces with another club and request a Safeguarding course. Speak to our Education department to request your course – minimum number required for the course is 12 – maximum is 20.

Zita Cameron Office Manager

24 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 25 Accounts as at 31st March 2013

Profit & Loss Account Profit & Loss Account Report of the Directors Year End Year End For the Year Ended 31 March 2013 Year End Year End31.03.13 31.03.12 The directors present their report with the financial statements of the company for the year ended 31 March 2013. Income Income 31.3.12 31.3.11 Principal Activity Membership Income 253,719 211,149 The principal activity of the company in the year under review was that of the governing body for Grants 949,500 766,473 swimming, diving, water polo, open water and synchronised swimming in Wales. Membership Income -211149 -227770 Sponsorship and fundraising 118,462 89,428 Review of Business Membership Aquatic Passport -22650 -16280 st Other Income 3,392 3,308 The company was successful in the year ended 31 March 2013 in both applying for and receiving Grants -766473 -686942 funding for future projects. A specific provision has been made in these accounts to represent this Education Income 164,491 155,464 future commitment by transferring £428,000 to other reserves. Sponsorship -89428 -134365 Membership Income - Aquatic Passport 12,965 22,650 Other Income -3308 -9856 Competition and Training Income 233,916 221,765 Balance Sheet Education Income -155464 -93807 Regional Income 108,408 68,314 31.03.13 31.03.12 Competition & Training -221765 -226798 Fixed Assets Diving 12,962 - Schools 0 -1400 Tangible Assets 303,885 321,936 Water Polo 20,123 15,990 Water Polo -15990 -1461 1,877,938 1,554,541 Current Assets Regional Income -68314 -80055 Debtors 305,039 404,676 Cash at bank and in hand 796,166 446,368 Expenditure 1,101,205 851,044 -1554541 -1478734

Creditors Salaries and Office Expenditure 708,952 645,335 Expenditure Amounts falling due within one year 450,514 765,649 Committees and Expense Expenditure 8,745 4,753 Membership Expenditure - Aquatic Passport 170,716 13,281 Net Currect Assets 650,691 85,395 Salaries & Office Expenditure 645335 765924 Competition and Training Expenditure 373,663 482,637 Membership Aquatic Passport 13281 25700 Total Assets less current Liabilities 954,576 407,331 Regional Costs 45,410 62,702 Committees & Expenses 4753 8296 Free Swim Initiative 1,021 – Creditors Competition & Training 483311 458687 Diving 6,949 675 Amounts falling due after more than one year (90,122) (125,602) Regional Costs 62702 62066 Water Polo 21,435 16,055 Water Polo 16055 5111 Provisions for Liabilities (182,188) – Masters 823 350 Net Assets 682,266 281,729 Masters 350 448 GB Fees 57,865 47,815 GB Fees 47815 38978 Reserves Schools 165 264 Schools 264 2278 Other Reserves 458,676 30,676 Education and Development Expenditure 81,595 161,554 Income and Expenditure account 223,590 251,053 Education & Development Expenditure 161554 159224 1,477,339 1,435,421 682,266 281,729 1435421 1526712 Net Surplus for the Year Before Taxation 400,599 119,120 Tax on Net Surplus (62) – These accounts are not the company’s statutory financial statements. Net Loss 119120 -47978 Transfers to Other Reserves (428,000) – The statutory financial statements from which these accounts are derived were approved by the Board of Directors on 19th October 2013 and were audited by Arthur Gait and Company, Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors, Retained (Deficit)/Surplus for the Year (27,463) 119,120 whose report dated October 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion.

26 Swim Wales Nofio Cymru Annual Report 2012 - 2013 27

NOFIO CYMRU SWIM WALES Swim Wales Wales National Pool, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QG

Email: [email protected] Tel: 01792 513636 Fax: 01792 513637