Guildford City claim unique double as Camden Swiss Cottage also retain title

Guildford City completed a unique double as they retained their National arena League Cup title with head coach Lee Spindlow declaring: “It’s down to a strong club culture.”

In a tense and close final at the Cardiff International Pool which saw the lead change hands several times, Guildford eventually came out on top by only four points from Repton.

It means they have become the first club in the history of the National arena League to hold and retain the senior and junior titles.

A thrilled Spindlow said: “We have become the first club in history to hold both the Junior and Senior Arena League Trophies in back-to-back seasons. 

“This is an incredible achievement only made possible by the hard work of our coaches, management team, parents and volunteers. 

“The victory in the water was made possible by the hard work and commitment by all our swimmers. 

“We are naturally pleased for those who competed so admirably in Cardiff but equally those back at home played a big part in the success. We have a really strong culture that sees everyone supporting everyone through training and competition. 

“‘The Guildford Way’ of coaching is developing real success and producing excellent people. 

“This success really was down to hard work, commitment and a strong club culture.”

The top swimmer awards in the Cup Final went to Repton swimmers.

Olympian Eva Okra took the female prize for her time of 55.65 in the 100m Freestyle, while GB junior international Jacob Mills clocked 49.82 in the 100m Freestyle to take the male title.

Camden Swiss Cottage’s ‘special achievement’

Proud Camden Swiss Cottage head coach Adam Taylor said it was a ‘special achievement’ to retain the B Final title.

They edged out Basildon Phoenix for the top spot by only four points in a closely-contested gala.

Taylor was delighted with his team’s performance and said: “It’s fantastic to be able to retain the title again this year.

“To be back-to-back champions is a special achievement and it’s a proud day for everyone associated with Camden throughout the club programme. 

“We’re looking forward to building on this and hopefully challenging for the Cup Final next season.” 

Great Britain junior international and RTW Monson swimmer Amalie Smith was the top female after clocking 2:15.36 in the 200m Individual Medley.

Her team-mate, Hayden Annan, took the male award for his time of 55.65 in the 100m Freestyle. 

Pictures: Mickael Malaper/Malaper Photography