Like any sport, swimming has its own language. If you ever hear a term you don't understand, please ask a coach or committee member – we're here to help!
The Basics: Pools
Short Course (SC / SCM)
A competition held in a 25-metre swimming pool. Our home pool in Burnham is a Short Course pool.
Long Course (LC / LCM)
A competition held in a 50-metre swimming pool, the same size used for the Olympics.
The Basics: Qualifying Times (QTs)
A QT is a time standard set by meet organisers. To enter an event, a swimmer must have an officially recorded time that meets specific criteria.
"Fast Enough"
You must be faster than this time to enter. Used for Championships (Counties/Regionals).
"Not Too Fast"
You must be slower than this time to enter. Ensures fair competition in developmental meets.
"Wild Card"
A slightly slower time. You can enter, but acceptance depends on if there is space left in the event.
The Competition Pathway
Counties (Somerset ASA)
First major champs (Jan-Mar). Swimmers compete against the best in Somerset. Requires County QT.
Regionals (South West)
The next step up. Brings together the fastest from Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Glos, Somerset & Wilts.
Nationals
The highest level. The best from England, Scotland, and Wales compete at national summer championships.
Other Useful Terms
🔢 Conversion
Mathematically adjusting a time from a 25m pool to 50m (or vice-versa). Allows swimmers to use existing times to qualify for meets in different pool sizes.
📱 Meet Mobile
An essential app for parents! View heat sheets, live results, and rankings. Usually requires a small subscription.
📈 LTAD
Long-Term Athlete Development: Our coaching framework ensuring training is appropriate for a swimmer's specific age and stage.
🏛️ Somerset ASA
The governing body for swimming in our county, responsible for organising the County Championships.