Youth Performance Squad kick off 2025 with focused training camp

Swim England’s Youth Performance squad (YPS) kicked off their 2025 with a focused training camp at Oundle School. 

The camp in Oundle welcomed 36 swimmers from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 January in a weekend that emphasized race modelling and skill acquisition. 

This year’s talented cohort includes a number of Great Britain’s European Junior International medallists, such as the likes of Filip Nowacki, Phoebe Cooper and Jacob Mills. 

It marked a chance for them to gain some vital preparation for the group, who are set to continue their development this weekend as a number of the squad members represent England at the Euro Meet in Luxembourg.

The camp in Oundle ran side by side with the Swim England National Youth Development Programme distance camp that featured a further 42 swimmers. 

They were welcomed to the school with a number of in pool sessions and educational workshops that were also available to the YPS squad. 

Each of the YPS swimmers were supported by various members of the Swim England Talent team throughout the weekend, as well as the six coaches selected to be a part of the programme – led by head coach Jamie Evans. 

‘Providing consistent support and guidance’

Their next challenge is that Euro Meet in Luxembourg, which takes place from Friday 31 January to Sunday 2 February, where they’re set to take on athletes from more than 20 nations across the continent.  

Swim England’s national technical lead for swimming, Danielle Brayson, outlined the vision for the year, saying: “Looking ahead, our focus for 2025 is on fostering strong connections with athletes and their home coaches.  

“Our team is committed to providing consistent support and guidance, ensuring that the lessons from our camps translate into ongoing development and success at their home clubs. 

“This collaborative approach is key to nurturing the next generation of talent on their journey to excellence.” 

The YPS makes up the fifth step of the Swim England Talent Pathway and aims to develop international arena skills to prepare swimmers for international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games.