Swim England has announced that a sixth National Performance Centre will soon be added to its existing lineup of centres ,which already includes High Wycombe, Leeds, Guildford, Manchester and Nottingham.
The organization has revealed that City of Sheffield Swim Squad, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield are working in partnership as the sixth National Performance Centre, serving as another opportunity for talented young swimmers to stay in the sport, achieve academic excellence and perform to the highest standards.
Grant Robins, Head of Talent for Swimming at Swim England, said: “We’re delighted City of Sheffield Swim Squad, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield are working closely with us to help develop young swimmers.
“The Swim England Talent Team provide support to the National Performance Centres through funding, coaching and technical advice.
“Sheffield is well-known on the swimming map due to Ponds Forge and it is an ideal location for up-and-coming young swimmers to be able to continue their academic studies and carry on training.
“The infrastructure that Sheffield swimming already displays will add to our offer for young up-and-coming swimmers to stay and train in this country. It will be so exciting working in partnership.
“Hopefully we’ll see more English athletes push through to the British Swimming World Class Programme from these centres.”
Mark Conroy, chairman of City of Sheffield Swim Squad, said: “We are thrilled and excited to be confirmed as the sixth venue for Swim England National Performance Centre.
“We have always had a close working relationship with both Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield focusing on flexibility of learning with an integrated swimming programme.
“Now, with the support of Swim England, this will allow us to enhance the programme further.”
Andrew Cox, Director of Sport and Physical Activity at the University of Sheffield, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Sheffield has been confirmed as a Swim England National Performance Centre.
“Sheffield has a fantastic history of developing swimmers and divers and also offering a fantastic place to study.
“We hope to welcome a number of athletes to the University of Sheffield through this scheme and play a vital part in their academic and professional development.”
Sheffield Hallum boasts Olympic finalist Max Litchfield among its roster, while Rosie Rudin competes for the University of Sheffield.
The City of Sheffield Swim Squad will see 2 of its elite squad compete next week in Budapest at the 2019 World Junior Championships in Charlie Brown and Simon Kliment.
Quotes courtesy of Swim England.
Pretty sure max Litchfield has moved to Loughborough. And Rosie Rudin has retired.