Denbigh Dragons Swimming Club, Denbigh, North Wales

SWIM CLUB NEWSLETTER ... December 2007

WELCOME

Seasons greetings to all our new members and their families. We go into the Christmas and New Year break on a real high having served our 1st team gala win at Ruthin last month. As you read this we are celebrating back to back wins as we compete in Rhyl on Saturday 9th December afternoon. (Webmaster edit)

I hope our recent success has encouraged every member of swim club. Squad places are always up for grabs and with training and effort I am sure a lot of you can push for a place. The best way to make a bid for a team place is to post P.B's in competition. The upcoming Valentine meet and North Wales Championships give the chance for every club member to shine.

Despite doubts of pool opening times at Denbigh we have pushed on with the annual training plan. Over the Christmas and New Year break we will be in a general conditioning phase, so please all keep up your fitness levels ready for quality work when we are back in the water come January.

Can I take the opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Coach Chris

New Members

Our new members since August newsletter are:-

Jonah Armstrong
Robert Thomas
Dominic Green
Phoebe Hobson
Phoebe Paton
Curig Brady
Catrin Rowlands
Elena Brown

Welcome to you all. Can every member of club remember what it was like when you first joined and do everything to help and encourage the clubs future stars.

Holiday Pool Closure

The pool closes at 6pm on Sunday 9th December and re-opens for swim club on Friday 4th January 2008. During this time there will be some maintenance work going on at the pool.

New Lane Times

As I am sure you are all aware Friday night sessions are becoming very busy. We have addressed this to ensure we can continue with the quality coaching.

With immediate effect, in January 2008 the new swim times will be as follows:

Friday Club Night
4.30pm - 5.00pm Water Dragons Group 1 (those currently at 4.30pm)
5.00pm - 5.30pm Water Dragons Group 2 (those currently at 5.40pm)

4.30pm – 5.30pm Red & Red Star
5.30pm - 7.00pm Blue, Green & Yellow

Sunday
All club members 3.00pm - 5.00 pm
Water Dragons 3.00pm - 4.00 pm

Monday
5.30pm - 6.30pm Red, Yellow, Green & Blue

Tuesday & Thursday Mornings
6.45am - 7.45am All welcome

Thursday Evening
8.00pm - 9.00pm Green & Blue

If anyone is unsure of which group they are in please get in touch or speak to one of the coaching staff.

Forthcoming Galas

The Valentine meet and North Wales Championships details are now available. Notices are on the board or speak to Delyth (Jake’s mum) regarding entries. Closing dates for entries are usually a few weeks before the actual competition.

Results

We have details of all your P.B's from galas and club presentations. Can everybody make sure they know their own P.B's. This will help in training. Printouts are available from our Swim Club computer system on request.

Below is the press release from the Ruthin Denbighshire Development Gala.

FIRST WIN FOR DENBIGH DRAGONS

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club recorded their first team win on Sunday against countywide opposition. It was Ruthin’s turn to host the Denbighshire Development Gala and teams from Chirk, Denbigh, Rhyl and Ruthin took part in 43 individual and relay races.

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club have developed fantastically over the last 12 months and with competition for squad places, were able to find a strong team of 7-16 year olds.

From 1st race to last it was clear that Denbigh meant business. The first places and personal bests just kept on coming. It is not possible to pick out individual performances because every swimmer contributed to the points total.

The other clubs pushed Denbigh all the way, but on the day the Dragons could not be beaten, and ran out clear winners. Special thanks to Ruthin Rays for hosting a friendly gala and providing Denbigh with a splendid 1st trophy. Lets hope it’s the first of many.

NEWSLETTER August 2007

Welcome back from our summer break. In reality, with the various free swimming programmes and poolside holidays the majority of members will have kept up with their aquatic training. So everybody will be refreshed and ready to get stuck into the new Annual Training Plan.

The new plan is published and on the notice board. This takes us right through to the Club Championships 2008. The programme will give every swimmer the opportunity to build upon the excellent progress made to date. Hopefully there will be many new sessions to inspire and motivate.

Swim meets and galas are built into the programme. We will aim for continued improvement both individually and as a club. I believe we have the talent and determination in the club to make a real impact at several galas including the North Wales Championships. I expect Bethan to make a real breakthrough at national level this year and I also have my eye on several very strong relay squads.

To kick off the new swim club year I want all swimmers to focus on 2 areas:

In practical terms this means I want every swimmer to start keeping a log book and to follow a programme of stretches.

Log Book & The Million Meter Challenge

Who will be the 1st club member to record 1 million meters in the training pool? At every training session swimmers should at least be recording the distance swam. This will be initialled by the coach and added to your training total.

Awards will be given as "mile stones" are reached. Who will be the 1st to train for 10 miles, 50 miles, 250 miles?

But you must remember to keep that log. As your log book develops you can record other sports/training activities. Your diet, how you felt, times & P.B's achieved.

All sportsmen & women find a training log an invaluable tool for motivation and training smart.

STRETCHES .... Your Best Buddies

I cannot emphasise enough the importance of stretching before and after training.

Pre-training stretches should follow a short and simple warm up routine just to get the circulation going. Whenever you can, get onto the poolside 5 minutes early and go through your stretching routine. Guidance on simple stretches and good technique will be given at club sessions in August.

Post training stretches can be done in the showers while the muscles are still warm and will really help with recovery and prevent injury.

To help ensure you get your stretches done I would like to build up a training partner or "buddies" system. This is for you to sort out and should be pairs or groups of 3 to 4 swimmers that do their stretches together.

Buddies encourage each other and literally support each other. Trust me, this is great fun and motivation. As Head Coach, I will be watching and really good buddies will be rewarded.

Finally welcome back, enjoy training because this is the year that Denbigh Dragons will really make their mark. We are an established club now, expectations, standards and competition have all gone up. Make sure you are part of something very exciting and special.

Chris Armstrong

COACHES

The new coaches shirts have arrived. Can you please ensure that you are wearing your coaches shirt whenever you are on poolside. Navy or black tracksuit bottoms/shorts and suitable footwear are also required. Our swimmers look at us to set the standard for them to follow.

I have 100% confidence in all of our lane coaches ability and when I look at other local clubs realise how fortunate we are.

I want the best for our swimmers and I will continue to challenge, support and encourage our coaches whenever I can. I expect the same in return.

The new coaches rota's will be circulated shortly and will take affect from the 1st September training session at Manchester. Please liaise with each other and myself to make the rota's work.

Everybody at the club is a volunteer. I believe that is one of our greatest strengths especially when I hear of what is happening at other clubs. As a lane coach the most important rule is that we should be enjoying it at least as much as the kids, if not more.

Thank you for all your continued efforts.

WATER DRAGONS

Firstly, welcome to all new members. To those swimmers that have progressed to club, Congratulations, you deserve it, work hard and enjoy swim club.

Secondly, to all of our Water Dragons that took part in the recent gala with Ruthin Water Dragons, Congratulations, I hope you all enjoyed it and got an early idea of what swimming galas are like. I was delighted with everybody's effort and with a number of very promising performances. The discipline and enthusiasm were a real credit to both clubs.

Thirdly, good news! I will personally be taking over the Water Dragons teaching. I know all of the Water Dragons were given assessment sheets towards the end of the last lessons. I have seen these and want to build on your strengths, develop all four strokes and improve stamina. I always keep an eye on our Water Dragons. I have noticed many are strong on perhaps two or three strokes but need to improve on one or two other strokes. With effort and determination I am confident we can make some real good progress and open up the opportunity of joining swim club to several more Water Dragons.

Finally, I expect high standards from all of my swimmers. Water Dragons should be prompt and prepared. That means proper swim costumes, correctly fitted goggles and drinks bottles. I also expect to have an awful lot of fun so be ready for some weird games and accidental splashing of parents and coaches!

NEWSLETTER June 2007

CONTENTS:

  1. Welcome to new members.
  2. Development Gala Press Release.
  3. New Training Calendar.
  4. Water Dragons.
  5. Club Championships / Presentation Evening.
  6. Lane Coaches Rota System.
  7. Discipline notice to Swimmers & Parents.
  8. Forthcoming Events.
  9. Summer Break & Water Polo, snorkelling & other activities at Denbigh Leisure Centre.
  10. Flint Gala Press Release.
  11. Notice of AGM
  12. Tracksuits, T-Shirts & Equipment.
  13. Triathlon.
  14. Website.

Welcome

It is only at times such as writing the newsletter, that I get the chance to reflect on what the Club has achieved over the last two years. It is important to occasionally step back from training plans and squad lists to look at what a great bunch of swimmers, coaches and support staff we have at Denbigh. From what I learn from travelling around the region and speaking with other clubs, Denbigh Dragons seem to be doing things right.

We have an excellent relationship working with the Leisure Centre, and just as much attention is paid to our Water Dragons as our senior swimmers. We even sometimes, very occasionally still have some fun.

Well done everyone and keep up the excellent work.

Can I say a very warm welcome to our newest members to full Club. I have had the opportunity of working with the swimmers that have moved up from Water Dragons to Red Star Group. The standard and attitude is excellent. Daniel, Stephen and Rohit have already represented the Club in galas. It won't be long before we have some real selection problems.

I am sure everybody in Club already has made the new members welcome, but can I make it official.

Welcome to:

Denbighshire Development Gala Press Release

Denbigh 10th June 2007

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club had the honour of hosting the 1st in a new series of galas to be fought for by swimming clubs from Chirk, Denbigh, Rhyl and Ruthin.

On a sweltering hot afternoon teams and supporters crammed into Denbigh Leisure centre to cheer on the swimmers aging from 7 to 15 years. From the very 1st event it was clear this was going to be a close competition and noisy affair. All the teams secured good wins and valuable points for their Clubs.

At the halfway stage Denbigh lead Ruthin by just one point, and everything was to swim for. As the gala reached its climax both teams were level on points with the relays and 'double' points up for grabs.

In the end Ruthin Rays just edged out Denbigh Dragons on the last race and deservedly picked up a magnificent new silver Cup to take back to their empty trophy cabinet.

Well done to all the teams and well done to Denbigh Dragons Club officials for an extremely well organised event, with a friendly atmosphere. All clubs are looking forward to the next gala at Chirk on the 15th July.

New Training Calendar

Our training cycle has now been planned to take us through Christmas and onto the North Wales Championships in February 2008, and beyond. The calendar is on the Noticeboard. Please take time to study it, together with the training blocks. The calendar also lists major competitions, junior galas, Manchester training and Stroke Clinics. As new information becomes available this will be updated.

After the summer break our next targeted gala will be the Swimfest at Holywell in early October. Several of our swimmers have the chance to make a real impact at this gala, so please stick to the training plan and get in as many hours swimming as you can.

Water Dragons

As ever during our Friday night sessions I always keep one eye on our Water Dragons. Welcome to all new members. I hope these sessions challenge you to take your swimming to the next level. Continue to work on your technique above all else, and the stamina will come.

Working your way up through swimming lessons you will have been encouraged by regular certificates and badges. The jump to Club however is a big step and it may take some of you several weeks to get there. To help with motivation we will continue to produce the detailed stroke appraisals for all Water Dragons. We have recently completed Distance Badges and at the beginning of August there will be a Swimming Gala especially for Water Dragons.

Please keep an eye out for further details of this and other events.

Club Championships

The most important Gala of the season. Please see the poster on the Noticeboard.

The Championships will be spread over three sessions:

Friday 6th July 4.30 - 7pm
Sunday 8th July 4.00 - 6pm
Monday 9th July 5.30 - 6.30pm

Every member needs to get to all of the sessions in order to challenge for the main Pentathlon Trophy.

The Presentations will take place immediately after the Monday session in Denbigh Rugby Club. Please see the Noticeboard for contributions for the buffet.

Lane Coaches Rota

The Club is now in the most fortunate position of having several enthusiastic and qualified lane coaches. Coach education and training has always been a Club priority.

I want to make the most of this committed talent and organise a Lane Coaches Rota. This will ensure that we have the best representation on poolside at all times.

Of course the Club relies on the goodwill of it's volunteers and any rota will incorporate flexibility.

On full Club nights I also hope to allocate specific lanes to the coaches so every coach will get the opportunity to improve themselves with varying ability of swimmer.

Denbigh Dragons Discipline

At this Club we are very fortunate to have excellent discipline. The swimmers on the whole are a credit to themselves, their families and the Club at both training and Galas.

I think it is however, worth spelling out a few basic 'rules'.

Swimmers arriving late on poolside or messing about in the lanes will be asked to leave the session and get changed.

Club only has responsibility for the members on the poolside and in the water. This does not extend to the changing rooms or elsewhere within or outside the Leisure Centre. Parents must be aware of this and make adequate provision.

Forthcoming Events

Please check the Noticeboard for Galas, Extra Training, Stroke Clinics and social events. Dates for your diary are:

Summer Break

Swim Club is having a rest for the first two weeks in August - that doesn't mean you have to! There will be plenty going on at the Leisure Centre, such as Water Polo, Snorkelling and Free swimming. Water Dragons will continue as advised.

(No swimming from Sunday 5th until Friday 17th inclusive).

Flint Junior Gala Press Release

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club Just Keep Getting Better

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club, junior swimmers really impressed at the Flint Gala on Saturday 12th May. Swimmers aged from 7 to 12 years competed in 41 events against longer established teams from the Flintshire area. With senior North Wales swimming officials in attendance, Denbigh were out to impress and as ever have fun. Several performances were note worthy and the Dragons junior swimmers are likely to make a big contribution to North Wales age group squads in the future.

From the very 1st event Denbigh Dragons showed they meant business with fantastic individual and team relay swims providing 20 P.B. times and 15 1st places. A few members of the team were swimming in their very 1st gala's having progressed into the squad via 'Water Dragons' swimming lessons.

At the end of an enjoyable, fun gala, Denbigh were only 2nd to hosts Flint and had established a Club record points tally. Well done to all the team and coaches. Thanks to Edna and all of Flint Swimming Club for a warm friendly welcome and superbly organised event.

Notice of AGM

An open meeting will be held, hopefully in early September. The AGM will follow the standard agenda, but it would be useful to also have a general discussion with any Club members or parents. If you have any points you would like to be raised please see Ailsa. Dates to be confirmed on the website and notice board.

Tracksuits, T-shirts and Equipment

For Club merchandise and bulk orders from Swimshop please speak with Jane Giles or Delyth.

A couple of our swimmers are now using 'Shami towel'. These are excellent towels that can be used to dry you, then ringing out and used again. Excellent for galas, so you won't be sat on the poolside in a wet t-shirt. Andrew has found a cheap website supplier. Please liaise with Ailsa and we might order a few.

We have our own equipment basket on poolside. We will be stocking this up over the next few months. If you have equipment such as old fins or kick boards, put them in the basket and we will always have use for them. Thank you.

Triathlon

Saturday 7th July. See the notice board. This is a great sport, lots of fun and a good challenge. If you can take the chance at this introduction to Triathlon.

Website

Always up to date. Thanks to Fred for all his work

Sponsorship

A big thank you to Propaint Painters and Decorators for confirmation of their support for Denbigh Dragons. A generous donation will help the Club to develop.

January 2007 newsletter

Happy New Year

to all our members, friends and family. A special warm welcome to our newest members, Emily, Vyvyan and Lois. I am confident you will enjoy yourselves and make a positive contribution to the club.

The new training programme is very full and will be focused on peaking for major events. Initially this will be the North Wales Championships in February & March. We want as many members as possible competing. We have arranged formal time trials on Sunday 14 January 2007 during our normal club session. Can everybody please be there.  The entry information for the Championships is attached with this newsletter.  Please don’t be put off that this is over 3 weekends. Most swimmers will only need to attend 1 or 2 days.

Even before the North Wales Championships we have members competing at the Valentine Meet and the Urdd in Swansea. Best Wishes to you all.

The club runs only with the help of volunteers.  More help is needed.  For only a few minutes per week we need help with Admin & Water Dragons. We will also shortly be running a Time keepers course. Anybody interested please let Ailsa know so we can sort out CRB checks & WASA registration.

We will regularly be placing Swim Shop orders, possibly once a month. If you need any equipment let us know as savings can be made with a bulk order.

Finally, tracksuits with club logo have been sourced. This will now cost circa £25 (excellent value). Please speak to Jane Giles for orders & sizes.

Happy Swimming                         

Chris

AUGUST/SUMMER 2006 newsletter

Dear Swimmers and Parents

Welcome back to the swimmers & families of Denbigh Dragons Swim Club. The 1st September heralds the start of a new swimming year. Major Regional, National & International competitions are focused in August each year. To reflect this our swim year will commence each September and aim to build our focus and training over a full 12 months for a peak performance each summer.

Due to problems at Denbigh Swimming Pool, we have been informed we may be not returning to Denbigh until the end of September/beginning of October. This is not a definite date. We will keep you informed as soon as we know more.

Excitingly we are also able to confirm the new training times for the whole club on our return to Denbigh. A big thank you to Steve Owen & Denbighshire Leisure Services for fitting us in. The extra hours per week will give every swimmer the chance to take their sport onto the next level. Please note the new swim times and squads for Friday night.

Finally in my introduction a big thank you to Hayden & all the staff at Ruthin for looking after us over the summer & putting up with a very noisy bunch.

CONTENTS
  1. Four Towns Gala – Chirk 29/07/2006
  2. Manchester 50m training dates & squads
  3. Fees
  4. New & improved membership packs that need signing
  5. Annual training plan 2006-2007 & calendar of events
  6. Goal setting - Swimmers profiles/questionnaire
  7. New club training sessions & Friday night squads
  8. Water Dragons - ASA National Awards
  9. Equipment - Costumes - Kitbags
  10. Training log - Weekly meterage/folders
  11. Nutrition - Diet Sheets
  12. Coaches/helpers - Training
  13. Water polo
  14. Nick Gillingham Stroke Clinic
1. Four Towns Gala – Chirk 29/07/2006

Despite recent difficulties Chirk swim club staged a very enjoyable Gala on Saturday. This was the third of this years Four Towns Gala, with the final leg to be held at Denbigh in November.

All teams were affected by holidays and unfortunately Abergele were unable to raise a squad. None the less competition was fierce with Chirk & Ruthin choosing to swim their older/stronger swimmers as often as they possibly could.

A Denbigh/Corwen team was by far the best prepared and all swimmers were given the chance to swim in at least 2 events. A record points total...

The improvement in the team and individual performance was commented upon by other clubs. Denbigh Dragons Swim Club have developed a blue print for success that looks set to produce more great results in the future. Somehow every member of the club and parents seemed to be having loads of fun.

Perhaps that is Denbigh’s secret? ^

2. Manchester 50m Training

Denbighshire have secured a monthly training session at the fantastic 50m pool, Manchester.

The training squad picked from Denbigh, Rhyl & Ruthin swim clubs will be given the opportunity to significantly improve strokes & times.

The dates are listed below. Coach transport will be provided between Denbigh Leisure Centre & Manchester. Picking up @ 12 noon & dropping off around 6.15pm.

The eight swimmers from Denbigh will be invited to attend by the club coaches. Selection will be considered by regular attendance at the club training sessions, amongst other criteria.

Ask any of the swimmers that attended the last Manchester session and they will tell you it is a fantastic experience. So work hard and everybody will be given a chance to take part.

Dates are:

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3. Fees

When swim club first started we agreed an annual training membership fee of £100 per annum. This included WASA membership (£25) and we trained on a Friday night for 1 hour.

As the club developed we increased training to Monday & Friday nights and Tuesday & Thursday mornings, a total of four hours per week. Fees stayed the same and this represented a charge of 37 ½p per hour. The club committee believes this represents excellent value for money.

From September 2006 the club will be training 7 ½ hours every week. WASA & North Wales WASA membership, subsidised t-shirts and more qualified coaches are all included.

Because of the excellent volunteer support and our generous sponsors the committee propose to keep fees at the same level for the next swim year. That equates to 18.6p per hour.

We will not be cutting back on the quality of training offered. We hope and believe this represents the very best value for money.

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4. Membership Packs

New and existing club members will be issued with the new membership pack. This has been updated to reflect changes within the club and new guidelines from WASA.

Parents and swimmers please read and sign the packs.

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5. Annual Training Plan

We have now published the annual training plan for the swimming year September 2006 – September 2007. This plan identifies the stroke of the week and aims to build strength, fitness and skill peaking in summer 2007.

The annual plan is split into phases that include goal setting, endurance base and pre competition. This plan also identifies important dates of galas, championships, Manchester training etc.

Make sure you are familiar with the plan and a copy is put in your folders.

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6. Goal Setting

September will be the month that we all look at what we want to achieve in the next year. Over the next few weeks Coach Chris will speak to every member of the club. Please give some thought to what you want to achieve.

Your target should challenge you and be achievable. It should be fun and will help with your motivation. Your individual training plan will help you to achieve your goals.

Whether you think you can do it or whether you think you can’t do it, You’ll be right!!!

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7. Club Training Sessions & Friday Night Squads

Club membership is now over fifty. The club is moving to the next level of training starting on our return to Denbigh

Club training will be:

All swimmers are invited to all sessions. Due to constraints of space on the main Friday night club session, this 2 ½ hr session will be split into the squads listed below. You will still train in your normal squads, red, yellow, green and blue, but at the times listed.

The groups have been split to accommodate siblings etc. Please bear with us and don’t be late. Be prepared.

New training groups
Early Group Late Group Blue Group
Steffan Griffiths Jake Jones Arran Ringer
Ethan Armstrong Brooke Humphreys Cassy Grandidge
Glyn Jones Elin Brady Molly Grandidge
Jay Ringer Osian Warren Lauren Oldbury
Ianto Adey-Jones Beth Heaton Oliver Kay
Annie Hinchcliffe Elen Baugh Jamie Dreiling
Micha MacDonald Olivia Musgrave Tomos Warren
  Natasha Green Yasmin Adey-Jones
Anona Davies-Smith Alys Matthews Abigail Gardner
Abbey Ringer William Foulkes Anya Dreiling
Grace Wynne-Williams   Bonnie Kay
Ceri Jones Jack Wakeman  
Matthew Williams Joseph Turner  
Joss Smith Sarah Giles  
Naomi Adey-Jones Laura Humphreys  
Lois Hinchcliffe Alaw Davies-Smith  
Sydney Hinchcliffe Alex Heaton  
Alys Hinchcliffe Daniel Latham  
  Ffion Montgomery  

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8. Water Dragons

The club is delighted to welcome Water Dragons to the Friday night training sessions.

WASA have developed the Water Dragons to form a natural link between the ASA National Teaching Plan and swim clubs.

Water Dragons will be the former level 9 swimmers and will train alongside the club.

Can I ask that all club members welcome the new Water Dragons. They will be the club swimmers of the future, so you old timers best watch out.

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9. Equipment

I hope you all agree Denbigh Dragons Swim Club look fantastic at galas in Club T-shirts & hats.

As Head Coach Chris would like to say a very big thank you to all those swimmers and parents that have purchased floats, fins and buoys.

This speeds up training tremendously.

You will notice in the next few weeks that those members of the Denbighshire Mini Polo team have been provided with kit bags. We propose to adopt this as the Club kit bag and these will be available for purchase.

The Club Committee has now chosen a team kit. Costumes, trunks etc will be available to purchase through the club account. Orders will be placed at the end of September, please liase with Ailsa for orders. The kit is black with red trim and will be embroidered with the club logo.

Finally we have noticed that kids have an annoying habit of growing. Any fins still in good order will be bought by the club for £3.00 to be added to the clubs ‘spare kit’ stock. Hopefully this will help with growing feet.

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10. Weekly Distances

Make sure all of your swim folders include a weekly meterage sheet. After each session you should be noting the distance you have swam. As part of training every swimmer should be aiming to increase distances and endurance.

We also recommend a small diary kept with your swim kit. In this you can note down distances and how you felt after each session. This will be a big help with your training and you will be able to look back and see what works for you.

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11. Diet Sheets

Several swimmers have been given weekly diet diaries to keep. These will be study and nutritional advice given. If you want any help withdiet, nutrition and best fuelling practice, speak to Chris.

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12. Coach Training

October will see 5 of our lane coaches undertaking and hopefully passing further coach qualifications.

Any parent or senior swimmers will be supported and funded by the club if they would like to undertake training.

See Martyn for details for future courses.

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13. Water Polo

On the 23rd August Denbigh Dragons swimmers will represent Denbighshire at the North Wales Annual Mini Water Polo Festival. This is a real feather in the cap for Denbigh Dragons Swim Club.

Denbigh have been chosen following excellent performances over the last 2 years at the Aquatic Festivals in Swansea.

Best wishes to both the squads.

Water Polo Teams
7 – 11’s 12 – 16’s
Osian Jamie
Jake Tomos
Ethan Ollie
Daniel Arran
Joseph Lois
Anya Cassy
Laura Molly
Bonnie Abigail
Elin Alys
Brooke Sydney

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14. Nick Gillingham Stroke Clinic

We are pleased to welcome British Olympic Medallist Nick Gillingham, who will be teaching all aspects of breast stroke to all members of Denbigh Dragons Swimming Club. It will take place on Sunday 10th September 2006 4-6 pm at Ruthin Swimming Pool. The Club strongly recommends that all swimmers attend to take advantage of his knowledge and fanastic experience, which can only benefit any swimmers that attend.

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May 2006 newsletter

Dear Swimmers and Parents

WELCOME to our most important Newsletter to date. The Swim Club is at a crossroads and has the opportunity to choose how it develops in the future.

Over the last 18 months or so I have had the pleasure of reporting success, growth and development of the swim Club. The club today trains four times per week and regularly competes in galas with great credit. Several of our swimmers are now achieving ‘A’ grade swim times and impressive personal best times. Membership stands at fifty plus swimmers ranging from 7yrs to 15yrs. More new members are coming along all the time through the swimming lessons program at the Leisure Centre. Swim Club 2006 bears little resemblance to the club when we started.

Our success has forced the Club management team to consider afresh what it is that the swim Club should provide and what expectations we have for our swimmers and parents. This was mentioned by me at the Presentation evening. Can I say at this point “No matter how the Club moves forward, we will always focus on having fun 1st and last.”

The numbers and range of ability of the swimmers means that a detailed annual training plan and specific training sessions are planned and coached at the poolside. This structure is necessary and a degree of discipline from all involved is needed to give every member the best chance of achieving their goals.

Pool Time

We have put forward our wishes to the Leisure centre, outlining the regular session times we would like to have when we return to Denbigh in September. At the time of writing we are waiting for a response.

Equipment

The floats and fins at the pool are of a poor quality and deteriorating. Ideally each swimmer should have their own Mesh Swim Bag, containing;

These can be purchased at decent larger sports shops or alternatively on line at www.swimshop.co.uk for example.

This is the minimum basic equipment required for training.

Time Keeping

Please note carefully the new swim times for Ruthin pool and when we return to Denbigh. Swimmers need to be on the poolside ready to stretch and swim at this time. Late arrivals will miss out on stretching and a proper warm up swim. In this instance swimmers may not be allowed in the water, risking injury, due to lack of the correct preparation.

Because of our limited pool time session plans are very full and time can not be wasted with stragglers.

This stricter policy may seem harsh and we appreciate parent’s busy schedules, but if we continue as we have been, the swimmers will not develop to their potential and we risk further injury.

At Ruthin the training times will be:

• Mondays 5:30pm to 7:00pm

• Friday 5:45pm to 7:00pm

These training times are for the whole Club.

Four Towns Gala at Ruthin pool

Press Release

Denbigh Swimming Club 1st of many Presentation Evenings

The Mayor of Denbigh and County Councillor Raymond Bartley congratulated everyone associated with Denbigh Swimming Club For their achievements during the last 12months, they have not only brought honour to themselves, but have also put Denbigh and Denbighshire on the map. “Well Done” and continue the good work.

Over 100 parents, swimmers and friends gathered at Denbigh Town Hall with Denbigh Dragons and Corwen Kingfishers Swim Club for a celebration and presentation evening.

Denbigh Town Major presented medals and awards for achievements and success at the recent championships, Sponsored by Pro paint and Denbighshire’s Leisure Services.

Gold, Silver and Bronze medals not only represent victory over a five event pentathlon, but also continued progress with all swimmers achieving personal best in at least one distance or stroke.

All Swimmers and parents would like to say a big thank you to Chris Armstrong their No 1 Coach and to the Denbigh Leisure centre Manager Stephen Owen and Staff for all their support that they have given during the last 12months to make this possible.

Special thanks go to Ailsa, Nia and Heather, plus many others for their help in organising an excellent evening.

Press Release

Flint Gala 20th May 2006

Flint Amateur swimming Club welcomed teams from Flintshire, Conwy, Manchester and Denbighshire to their junior Gala on Saturday last. Denbigh Dragons Swim Club brought by far the largest team, taking the opportunity to give all of their younger swimmers a chance to compete in what is always a competitive and friendly gala.

Thirty two young Denbigh Dragons aged between 7 and 12 years old competed with enthusiasm and distinction. Generally competing against older and more experienced swimmers, the coaches and management team at Denbigh believe the chance for all Club members to take part is vitally important.

The enthusiasm from every swimmer and parent was unmatched. So was the noise from the supporters. Thanks go to the staff at Flint Pavilion, and organisers from Flint A. S. C. for a great gala.

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club looks forward to their next gala, to be held in Ruthin in June. This gala will be held in familiar surroundings for Denbigh, as the Swim Club will be decamping to the Ruthin pool from June to September as refurbishment is carried out at Denbigh Leisure Centre.

The time has come for the team to step up performances at competition level. You have all put in an awful lot of effort. Fitness and technique are so much better, but now I want every swimmer to focus on Starts and Turns. This needs to practiced in your spare time. Speak to any of the coaches for help and practices.
Lane Coaches

A course will be run in September to train lane coaches for the club. We need to make a few arrangements before hand such as CRB police check forms and WASA registration.

Can anybody that is prepared to help on the pool side let Chris, Martyn or Ailsa know their names as soon as possible. The Club and Denbighshire swimming development will give full support to all of those taking the course.

Personal Bests

Congratulations to all swimmers that have put in good performances at galas and at the Club Championships. You need to keep a record of your times. These should be entered into your personal training folders as soon as the times are published on the web site or on the notice board.

It is also an excellent idea to keep the monthly training plans in the folders and keep a record of how far you swim in each session to check your weekly and monthly distances.

All swimmers need to take responsibility for their training. From time to time Chris will be calling in your folders to review your training and discuss your swimming goals.

SEE YOU ALL IN RUTHIN. BE PREPARED AND MAKE EVERYBODY AT THE CLUB PROUD BY YOUR EFFORT AND BEHAVIOUR.

Newsletter March 2006

days are getting longer....

The days are getting longer. You all know the first sign of Spring. Yes, that’s right Cassy at morning swim sessions. It would be really nice to see you all there and don’t forget the parents lane too!

So it is all change for Denbigh Dragons due to the closure of the pool from April 24th to September. Obviously this will have an effect upon training. Alternatives are being considered and are discussed later, firstly however we have taken the decision to move the Club Championships forward and these will now take place on Sunday 9th April 1pm at Denbigh.

The whole club and Corwen swimmers are expected to take part results and times from these championships will be the basis for the team selection over the coming season. Best of luck to all.

At the championships I will be calling on parents and friends to assist with timekeeping and official roles. Be prepared.

I am confident we can keep the club running well during the closure and at the end of it come out stronger.

Coach Chris

POOL CLOSURE ARRAGEMENTS

Realistically the only pool time available to us is at Ruthin. We have been offered the following:-

My initial thoughts are to take these times with the whole club invited to both sessions. I do, however need your feedback. The club will be paying for Ruthin pool use and we need the numbers of swimmers to make it worthwhile.

Also we will be training alongside Ruthin Swim Club and therefore it is vital that the club is professional. This means turning up on time, prepared and ready to complete that session. The time and space available does not allow for late arrivals, turning up without goggles or drinks or not knowing what they are supposed to do. We will also need lane assistants, so a rota will need to be established. Thank you for your help.

Reminder: Can everybody get their forms back for the Helpers course at Buckley. All WASA forms should also be returned and any CRB forms and details. Please liaise with Martyn Turner.

MONTHLY TRAINING SCHEDULES

All groups have now been in receipt of the training schedules for at least 3 months. They tie in with the annual training plan (notice board and website)

Some parents are confused.

An idiots guide.

Newsletter December 2005

Seasons Greetings, Happy Holidays & Best Wishes for the New Year

Father Xmas greetingDenbigh Dragons Swim Club has now been a club for 12 months. The club now bears little resemblance to that of a year ago. Membership has increased & changed. We are swimming four times as much and competing on a regular basis. Let us ensure we continue to grow from strength to strength.

The contents of this news letter include:-

Personally can I say a heartfelt thank you to all of the swimmers that turn up and listen (sometimes) to me going on.

Last Sunday I bumped into one of our swimmers in the supermarket. At first I didn’t recognise her because I don’t often see you in the “real world”. She looked so little. It is easy to forget that you are still “bairns”. I see you on the pool side, tell you to get on with a 900m warm up, before a hard fly session and don’t think twice about it. Let us never forget that every time toy turn up you are demonstrating determination, commitment, discipline & skill. Not many young people can say that. You’re all special. However, I wont be taking it any easier. Well Done!

Coach Chris

SOME THANK YOU’S

Firstly, a very big THANK YOU to Steve Owen and all of his team at Denbigh Leisure Centre. (If Steve reads this he’ll know I’m after some extra swim time!) Their help and coaching advice has been invaluable.

Next, I must thank Lucy Jones & Paul Harrison at Denbighshire. We couldn’t have done anything without their support.

A few very special people have very kindly given their time and effort at training sessions and galas. As a parent myself I know what the taxi business is like, so getting the kids there and then rolling up your sleeves is brilliant.

Martyn – Thank You

Parents – Keep getting them out of bed, making sure the swim bag is packed and making a show of yourselves at galas. They can make you so proud sometimes.

Obviously there are many people I have not named or forgotten altogether, but finally Swimmers, you are the club, you make it worthwhile.

Thank You

SWIMMERS OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to all of the swimmers. Each and everyone of you have improved significantly. You have all also had the chance to test yourself against other clubs in competition. Nobody has let me down. You have all given your best, but I expect you to get better.

The coaches and committee would like to reward special achievement by a few swimmers with the following awards.

Each swimmer receives trophy and pair of speedo goggles.

MEMBERSHIP FEES

Please see Octobers newsletter. Annual club membership for 2006 will be £120. This includes WASA & North Wales ASA Membership.

Fees equate to 55p per session! New standing order forms are now available.

* MEMBERS – MEMBERS – MEMBERS – MEMBERS – MEMBERS *

From a starting membership of 24 the club now stands at 40 plus swimmers, plus coaches and committee.

At competition we have seen that we particularly lack older boy swimmers. SO... the club are looking to boost competition in this age range. Can all members challenge or invite their friends and school mates to come along and have a go at swim club.

The overall fitness benefits are tremendous. How many good footballers or netballers out there would benefit from the conditioning and discipline that swim club offers.

Lets make the club strong.

GOALS & CLUB RECORD HOLDERS

Review the swim club level one & two. Where would you put yourself? Are you achieving your potential? What extra/specific training do you require?

All swimmers will continue to swim all 4 stokes and develop skills. This will prevent injury and maximise your potential.

CLUB RECORD HOLDERS

During the week Mon 23rd Jan – Fri 28th Jan 2006, time swims/races will take place. This will your chance to set the club record for your age group. All the events below need to be won. So look at what you want to go for in your age group. Take your marks……

NEW CLUB CAPTAINS 2006

We are pleased to announce the club captains for 2006.

Boys: Aaran Ringer
Girls: Cassy Grandidge

Well Done & Thank You for your efforts.

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Newsletter October 2005

Welcome to the start of our new training year, to all swimmers, old and new. We have all had a lazy summer but now is the time to knuckle down and get back to training.

Our swimming annual calendar has started a new. Over the next few months we will be working on aerobic fitness levels and introducing more skill work. Gradually we will increase the distances and intensity as we work towards competition. The aim will be for us all to peak at the Club Championships in early June 2006.

This seems a long way off, but you will be surprised how soon we will name our Club Champions. Of course before then there will be plenty of opportunity to improve the P.B's at various galas.

Over the next two months there will be the National Aquatic Festival in Swansea, the Schools Urdd and of course the next Four Towns Gala in Ruthin on 20th November.

We have already has a fantastic start to the year. Please read the press release on the Four Towns, Abergele, but do believe me when I say the hard work has only just begun.

..... Coach Chris

SWANSEA AQUATIC FESTIVAL ... 27 OCTOBER 2005

Once again Denbigh Dragons are delighted to announce that they have been asked to represent the whole of Denbighshire at this prestigious swimming festival. This reward is for the tremendous support the club and leisure centre have given the Free swimming initiative. Many thanks must go to Steve and all the staff at the pool.

Up to 32 swimmers will be invited to travel to the 50m pool in Swansea. Names need to be confirmed ASAP, so please let Chris know your availability.

DENBIGH DRAGONS SWIM CLUB
NATIONAL AQUATIC FESTIVAL

at the WELSH NATIONAL POOL,
SWANSEA

Thursday 27 October 2005

The coach will be leaving Denbigh Leisure Centre at 6:30am and returning around 9:30pm.

This is a fantastic FREE event supported by the National Assembly. Competition includes sponsored relay, water polo and inter area relay competition.

Also your chance to swim in the National 50m pool, Swansea.

Team selection will be by invitation only.
Chris will speak to everybody over the next two weeks.

Find Us On Line

http://www.swimclub.info

The latest and most update swim club website in North Wales is here at the touch of a button. Read all our news and log on to the clubs and individual swimmers development.

Many thanks to Fred Dreiling. This is completely down to him. Brilliant!!!

Any articles, photo's or comments are most welcome.

Log on, enjoy it and tell your friends.

www.swimclub.info
denbighdragons@swimclub.info

Club kits

Everybody looks fantastic in the personalised club t-shirts and new green swim caps. Wear them with pride!

The Swimming Development Officer for Denbighshire and her boss were very impressed. I would even go as far to say a bit jealous of how good we now look.

So it is time to take it to the next level. This is your chance to design the clubs new swimming costumes. What do you want to be wearing at the North Wales Championships?

Let Martyn or Fiona have your designs by 1st December 2005. The winning design will be transformed into the new club kit, available in the New Year. The winning entry will also be the 1st to receive their costume - FREE.

Entries should include:-

Get designing & win a costume

Coaches help

More support is needed from parents with the club sessions. Training programmes will be fully planned, but with some 40 members in 4 lanes up to 5 times per week. Chris needs support from lane helpers.

In house training and WASA courses are regularly available, so there is no excuse not to get involved.

Speak to Chris, Martyn or Fiona.

Your club needs you.

Water Polo Sessions

Every Tuesday 5:30pm

The attendance at the Tuesday water polo sessions has been very poor. Since the summer holidays these sessions have virtually come to a stop. These will be lost to general public swimming if they are not better supported.

Your feedback is welcome. Denbigh pool has some good polo coaches, so take advantage of them.

Abergele club are keen to kick off a water polo league and want us involved. Believe me, you ALL need the practice.

Monday Night Lane

Please do not forget when it is your turn for the Monday Night Lane. These are intense sessions focussing on specific and important skills. Attendance has been poor. Use it or lose it!

Fees

Since the fees were set in 2004 the club has moved on tremendously. Instead of 1 hour, there is now 4 hours plus of training per week. That is 4 sessions instead of 1. The increased effort has been tremendous, as have been the recent results. This does, however, mean a lot more pool time hire and WASA membership fees will increase to include North Wales competition due in January.

The committee have looked at the projected costs for next year. With pool hire, equipment, memberships and subsidised kit, fees will have to go up.

We are very grateful to our main sponsors, Pro-paint Decorators for their continued support.

From the 1st of January 2006, fees will increase from £100 per annum to £120 spread over quarterly payments of £30.00. New standing order forms will be available from December 1st.

£120 per year still represents tremendous value. North Wales ASA membership is £28. Available swim sessions per year. 168 (48 weeks x 3.5) after WASA Membership, that equates to 55 pence per session.

(Normal swimming session is £2.60)

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Newsletter June 2005

10 Weeks Notice Next Four Towns Gala

Make sure you are available for selection and attend as many Club sessions as possible. BRING IT ON!

Swansea here we come!

Denbigh Dragons have been chosen again to represent the whole of Denbighshire at the Whole Wales Aquatic Festival at the Wales National Pool, Swansea in October.

We need a team of 35 to bring home the Spoils!

Summer Free Swimming Club members are needed for ASA Coach training. This is the chance to get free extra training sessions from Mary Bainbridge – one of the top swimming coaches in north Wales.

Club Sessions

Welcome to the second of the club’s monthly newsletter, and what a month! Since we last wrote the club has gone into overdrive. Training has moved up to a new level and at last the Club has got involved in some serious competition and also tasted victory.

Regarding the Four Towns Gala, please see the article and press release later in the Newsletter. Our younger swimmers also competed at Flint on Saturday 25th June, they all did the Club proud. See report.

Can I finish my bit by saying a warm welcome to all of our new club members and a big thank you to all for your efforts in training, competition and organisation. Everyone has a positive contribution to make to the Club, please think about what you can do?

Chairman – Chris Armstrong

Club Social Gulliver’s World – Sunday 19th June 05

30 members, family and friends set out bright and early on Sunday morning for a busy day at the Fun Park. This was the hottest, driest June on record, so we slapped on the sun cream, unaware of the events to come.

The coach trip was as you would expect. Naughty girls at the back, naughty boys at the front, parents in the middle. No sick bags were needed!

And they were off. The Antelope, Pirate Ship, Log flume and Runaway train. Big and small rides, something for everyone. Ten minute break for picnic, then back on the rides.

All was going to plan until 3.30pm when a Thunder storm and downpour of Biblical proportions hit Warrington. Fantastic. Everybody soaked to the skin. Mad dash to the gift shop for pic ‘n’ mix, then back on the coach home.

All present and accounted for.

A really good day out. Where should we go next? Any suggestions to the Committee.

T Shirts & Caps

We have been promised the T Shirts for Friday 1st July 2005. So far, we have orders for 17. It would be nice if all the swimmers had the T Shirts for forthcoming Gala’s. Get you orders to Martyn, as soon as you can.

The caps should have been here 2 weeks ago, sorry, we are chasing the suppliers.

Once the caps arrive they must be worn at training and in competition.

*CAPS MUST BE WORN AT ALL CLUB SESSIONS*

Flint A.S.C. Gala 25TH June 2005 Flint Pavillion

What a team! What a team!

This was a chance for the 12 and under swimmers to do their stuff and they did not let the Club down.

Family and friends, superb. We must have had the biggest support there and didn’t everybody know it! The noise really pushed us on.

Finally, my proudest moment of the day was the praise that the team received from the Flint Swim Club organisers. Our appearance, effort and behaviour were a credit to the club and we could be welcome back any time.

Newsletter May 2005

Welcome to the first Denbigh Dragons Newsletter. We hope swimmers, parents and friends of the Club will find it informative. There are also contact details and we would love to hear your comments and suggestions. Since the 1st of January, the Club has moved on apace. With commitment from all we are confident the Club can grow from strength to strength. Finally a big thank you to all the Club’s swimmers and officials for their work to date, and to parents for your support.

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club

We now own the web address www.swimclub.info. The Club are keen to set up a web site with information about the club, results and news. Anybody that can help with this please contact Coach Chris.

Membership

Full Club membership has recently increased from 26 to 31. Five swimmers have moved up from Pre Club. They are warmly welcomed and we are confident they will be looked after by the experienced Club swimmers.

Pre Club has over 25 swimmers and with continued effort and practice we hope to be inviting several move to join Swim Club.

Swimming Squads

New squad levels 1 & 2 have now been published. These detail what standard is expected from all swimmers. As the standards are achieved, swimmers will move up from Squad 1 to Squad 2 and this will be reflected in time and intensity of training.

All swimmers please note the new lane groups. Red, Yellow, Blue and Green Lane Groups have bee published and you will be working in these lanes for the next 3 months.

Fees

Membership fees for the current year are £100. This is payable in quarterly instalments by standing order. Please contact club treasurer Martyn Turner for details.

Membership includes: swimming sessions, Welsh Amateur Swimming Association Membership, Club swim hat.

Swim Times

With effect from Friday 3rd June 2005 the swim times have changed.

All swimmers should aim to attend as many sessions as possible.

We have been invited to join Abergele Swimming Club on Sunday evenings for an hours land training (swim specific circuits) at Abergele Sports Centre. If this proves popular the Club may look to start its own Land Training programme at Denbigh.

Merchandise

Denbigh Dragons Swim Club T-shirts are now on order. These are all one size (large) and will be personalised with your name on the sleeve. The cost of the T-shirts has been subsidised to £5.00 each. We would like everybody to have a T-shirt to help foster Club identity and team spirit.

To place your order, complete the slip below and return to a Club Official with £5.00 cash or cheque made payable to Denbigh Dragons Swim Club.

Name:....................................

Payment: Cash Chq

Name on Sleeve:..............................

Social Events

On Sunday the 19th June 2005 we plan a Club trip to Gullivers World Theme Park. A coach will be leaving Denbigh Leisure Centre at 8:45am and returning approximately 5:00pm.

Numbers will be limited to a maximum of 50 and anybody under 10 yeas will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult! The cost of the trip will be £15.00 per head to cover the cost of coach and entry.

I'm coming to Gullivers World on Sunday 19th June.
Name .........................

And I would like to bring with me

..............................(age)/............................(age)

..............................(age)/............................(age)

I enclose payment for ..... People, totally £..............

Coachs/Lane Assistant

Thank you to Martyn, Fiona and others for your assistance with club sessions. As the Club has developed the training has become more intensive and structured. Often each lane is working a different set and any help to Chris and Kara is much appreciated.

If any parent is interested in offering help as a Lane Assistant then the club can arrange and fund the appropriate training courses through Denbighshire's Swimming Development Office.

If you're interested (and it has got to be better than sitting on the side bored) please let Chris or Kara know.

Four Towns Gala

This is our first gala. We are joining up with Corwen Swim Club to enter a joint team. The 4 towns are Corwen/Denbigh, Abergele, Chirk and Ruthin.

We have the honour of hosting this years first Gala at Denbigh on Sunday 12 June 2005.

The gala is made up of 43 events over distances between 25m and 50m. The events are split up between boys/girls and in age categories.

Warm up swim will start at 2:30pm on the Sunday. Every swimming in Swim Club will take part in at least one race. Each race earns points fro 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th.

Assistance will be required on the day. We expect over 100 swimmers and family.

Further details will be posted in the next few days.

Sponsorship

A big thank you to Propaint Painters and Decorators for confirmation of their support for Denbigh Dragons. A generous donation will help the Club to develop.

All images on this site are ©2008 Denbigh Dragons Swimclub unless otherwise stated and connot be used in any form in any other publication, be that paper or web-based without the written permission of the webmaster or an officer of Denbigh Dragons Swimclub.


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