Southampton Diving Academy crowned top club at National Age Group Championships

Southampton Diving Academy were crowned the top club at the Swim England Diving National Age Group Championships.

They picked up 18 medals throughout the four-day competition – seven golds, three silver and eight bronze.

It ensured they beat Luton Diving Club to the Dawdon Shield Trophy, which is presented to the best performing club at the championships, by three points.

And it proved to be a late birthday present for Matthew Roberts, the diving development coach at Southampton Diving Academy, who turned 30 during the event.

He said: “It means a lot.

“We have not had a National Age Group Championships since before Covid so this is quite a new team.

“There are some experienced divers but also a lot of new ones coming through.

Exceeded expectations

“To have a couple of years off competing, they have worked really hard to get here and we have had some great results.

“Our new divers have walked away with medals as well and it’s a really good achievement for the team.

“We knew we had a strong team but because we have not competed properly for a while, it was a case of let’s see how we get on.

“They have done really well and exceeded expectations.”

Lottie Thompson, Swim England Diving Leadership Group chairperson, said it was fantastic to see so many competing at the National Age Group Championships once again.

“As there has been such a break, it’s been great to see everyone and how they have progressed and coped with working out at home and pool closures,” she said.

“A massive thanks to all the volunteers and the Plymouth Life Centre for hosting.”

Pictures: Morgan Harlow