Regulars to at Andrew 'Boy' Charlton Aquatic Centre may have noticed poolside signs allotting lanes for “Squads”. But have you stopped to think that you – or your children – could also be a part of the magic happening in those lanes?

Squads are often thought of the domain of swimmers with their eyes on medals. But at Manly the program is as much for those who swim for fun and for fitness, as those who swim to compete and together they make a tight-knit swimming community. 

There's a program for every level. Stretching from those in the Junior Squads - young swimmers focused on improving their technique or school carnival success - through to older swimmers in the Fit You Squads, with an eye on the Bold and Beautiful swim at Shelly Beach. 

In between are the elite athletes including swimmers, triathletes, surf lifesavers and water polo players. You might even spot an Olympian, national champions or a few members of the Aussie junior swim team. Plus the club swimmers who as part of the Manly Swim Club based at the pool, are vying for spots in State and National championship teams. 

Head Coach Justin Rothwell, who comes with an impressive resume of coaching accolades including Commonwealth Games, has built an expert team of dedicated trainers and performance coaches. 

With over 80 sessions across morning and afternoon, the Squad program has grown from just 40 swimmers 8 years ago to over 300 hundred swimmers pounding the lanes each week. 

It’s also built an inclusive community. Younger swimmers train with different age groups and weekend club races give parents a shot at racing their kids. Former Junior Squad swimmers now teach the current crop of wannabees.

The centre’s facilities are also a good reason the program has been able to thrive with an 25-metre indoor pool and both 50 and 25-metre outdoor pools.

Visit our website for details of squad levels, try outs and to book an assessment.