Group Placement and Training Philosophy:

 

This structure emphasizes the importance of technique, commitment, and personal responsibility in achieving success within the club while providing a clear pathway for swimmers to progress through different training groups.

Age Group Program: The Age Group Program includes the Black Group and White Group, each tailored to swimmers of different ages and skill levels. These groups focus on developing foundational skills, teamwork, and preparing young athletes for competitive swimming.

Gold & SR Prep Group Program: The Gold Group is designed for swimmers aged 9-12 who have achieved a high level of swimming proficiency. It emphasizes advanced training techniques, mental training, and the preparation needed for high-level age group competitions.

Senior Program: The Senior Program includes the Senior 1, Senior 2, and Senior 3 squads, each targeting swimmers of different ages and competitive levels. These squads prepare athletes for elite age group and senior-level competitions, including National Training and potential collegiate swimming.

The Cerritos Aquatic Club's group placement and training philosophy are outlined as follows:

Program Goals:

  • Develop athletes technically, physically, and mentally.
  • Emphasize healthy training to prevent injuries.
  • Prioritize technique at early levels and maintain it while developing physical and psychological capacities as athletes mature.
  • Continually evaluate and adapt to factors impacting young athletes' growth and development.

Group Placement:

  • Swimmers must qualify and adhere to the Cerritos Aquatic Club Code of Conduct and training requirements.
  • Placement based on tryout performances and/or training and competitive capabilities.
  • Swimmers meeting prerequisites or achieving automatic performance standards for a group are invited on a provisional basis.

Prerequisites for Advancement:

  • Positive attitude.
  • Desire to advance within the Cerritos Aquatic Club program.
  • Willingness to upgrade commitment levels as needed regarding workload and attendance.

Group Transitions:

  • Swimmers move to different groups in September/March (The Cuts Squad Team) and April/September.
  • Coaching staff's decision based on various variables:
    • Knowledge of Cerritos curriculum.
    • Stroke technique.
    • Competitive times.
    • Meet attendance.
    • Work ethic during practices.
    • Coachability.
    • Workout attendance.

Responsibilities and Commitment:

  • As swimming ability improves, responsibility increases.
  • Encouragement for all swimmers to aim for National Swimming.
  • Commitment deepens as swimmers progress.
  • Swimmers must be prepared for 100% effort in each practice.
  • Required to bring specified training accessories (e.g., goggles, flippers) and ensure they are properly adjusted and have spares available.
  • Missing training due to equipment adjustment or repair is not accepted as an excuse.

 

 

AGE GROUP PROGRAM

 

CAC Black Group Overview

The Cerritos Aquatic Club (CAC) Black Group is tailored for young swimmers aged 6-10 who are eager to embark on their competitive swimming journey. Here's a comprehensive overview of what the Black Group entails:

Age Range: 6-10
Target Age: 10 & Under
Typical Schedule: 3-4 workouts per week

Entry Qualifications:
Swimmers are selected and invited by the Head Coach after demonstrating proficiency in all four competitive strokes and expressing an interest in joining a competitive team.

Description:
The Black Group serves as an entry-level competitive group, introducing swimmers to the core principles of the Cerritos Aquatic Club Philosophy and curriculum. It focuses on building the essential skills needed for competitive swimming while emphasizing team-building through group games, social activities, and challenges. Swimmers will develop both physically and mentally as they progress in their swimming journey.

Primary Objectives:

  • Develop competitive swimming fundamentals, including aquatic postures, body awareness, aquatic rhythms, listening skills, coachability, and embracing the core values of Cerritos Aquatic Club membership.
  • Introduce starts, turns, and efficient aquatic body movement as crucial elements of fast swimming.
  • Achieve meet times in all four competitive strokes within the swimmers' respective age group.

Attendance and Meet Expectations:

  • Swimmers are expected to attend at least 75% of workouts to ensure both retention and progression within the program.
  • Participation in a minimum of 4 Swim Meets during the SCY season and 2 Swim Meets during the LCM Season is required. This includes involvement in all CAC-hosted Meets as well as qualified Championship Meets.

The Black Group focuses on laying down foundational skills and techniques while nurturing a passion for competitive swimming and fostering teamwork among young athletes.


 

CAC White Group Overview

The Cerritos Aquatic Club (CAC) White Group caters to swimmers aged 9-14, with a targeted age range of 11-12, who possess an advanced level of swimming proficiency and seek to further enhance their competitive skills. Here's a detailed overview of what the White Group entails:

Age Range: 9-14
Target Age: 11-12
Typical Schedule: 4 workouts per week plus dryland training

Entry Qualifications:
Swimmers are selected for the White Group by their respective coach and the Head Age Group Coach. Candidates must demonstrate mature competitive strokes, ample swim meet experience, and proven competitive races in the 100IM and 200FR. They should also be motivated to strive for competing in the 200IM and 500FR.

Description:
The White Group is an integral part of our development program, designed for athletes eager to enhance their aquatic skills and deepen their understanding of the sport. It offers additional training activities and fosters physical and emotional growth within peer and ability groups. Swimmers in the White Group will learn the core principles of the CAC Philosophy and curriculum, including goal setting and dryland activities. Emphasis is placed on healthy activities and efficient swimming technique.

Primary Objectives:

  • Refine all four competitive strokes and deepen knowledge of competitive swimming principles.
  • Work towards achieving efficiency in all four competitive strokes.
  • Identify and improve weaknesses in aquatic abilities.
  • Focus on starts, turns, and efficient use of the body in the water.
  • Aim to earn SCS (Southern California Swimming) times in at least 3 of the competitive strokes within their respective age group.

Attendance and Meet Expectations:

  • Swimmers are expected to attend at least 75% of workouts to maintain conditioning and progress in the program.
  • Participation in a minimum of 5 Swim Meets during the SCY season and 2 Swim Meets during the LCM Season is expected, including all CAC-hosted Meets and qualified Championship Meets.

The White Group is designed to help swimmers refine their technique, deepen their understanding of competitive swimming, and prepare for more advanced levels of competition within the Cerritos Aquatic Club.

 


CAC Gold Group Overview

The Cerritos Aquatic Club (CAC) Gold Group is tailored for swimmers aged 9-12, with a target age range of 9-12, who have already attained a high level of swimming proficiency and aspire to further refine their competitive skills. Here's a detailed overview of what the Gold Group entails:

Age Range: 9-12
Target Age: 9-12
Typical Schedule: 5-6 workouts per week plus dryland training

Entry Qualifications:
Swimmers are selected to join the Gold Group by their respective coach and the Head Age Group Coach. Qualifications include demonstrating competitive racing ability in the 200IM, 200FR, and 500FR, with willingness to compete in the 400IM and 200s of BK (backstroke) and BR (breaststroke). Automatic qualification is considered if a swimmer achieves two 11-12 SCS (Southern California Swimming) standards in their respective gender.

Description:
The Gold Group caters to athletes committed to further advancing their aquatic skills and deepening their understanding of the sport at a higher level. This group incorporates more advanced training techniques and introduces mental training and advanced dryland activities. Success in the Gold Group is predicated on increased commitment, attendance, and practice effort, with goal setting serving as an integral component throughout the year.

Primary Objectives:

  • Refine all four competitive strokes through intensive training sessions.
  • Achieve water efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Expand knowledge of competitive swimming principles and embrace core values.
  • Prioritize starts, turns, and efficient body usage in the water.
  • Foster team spirit and peer recognition through team-building activities.
  • Develop understanding of high-level age group competition requirements.
  • Familiarize athletes with safe and healthy training practices to prevent injuries.
  • Emphasize water efficiency for achieving optimal performance.
  • Aim to earn Age Group Regional times in their respective age group.

Attendance and Meet Expectations:

  • Swimmers are expected to attend at least 85% of workouts to maintain conditioning and progress through the CAC curriculum.
  • Consistent training is vital for achieving competitive goals, particularly before championship meets.
  • Trust and positive relationships are emphasized for success in high-level age group swimming.
  • Attendance at all Squad-assigned competitions, along with participation in all qualified Championship meets, is expected.

The Gold Group is designed to empower swimmers to reach their full potential, fostering dedication, excellence, and teamwork as they progress in their swimming journey.

 

CAC Senior Prep Group Overview

The Cerritos Aquatic Club (CAC) Senior Prep Group is tailored for our most dedicated Age Group Swimmers, committed to year-round training and competition under SCS and of USA Swimming. As the pinnacle of our Age Group Program, this group is designed to foster a culture of excellence, camaraderie, and personal growth.

Group Expectations:

  • Regular Attendance: Members are expected to attend practices consistently.
  • Meet Participation: Attendance at most meets, especially when qualified, is encouraged.
  • Group Dynamics: Emphasis is placed on fostering teamwork, mutual support, and upholding the integrity of the group.
  • Goal-Oriented Training: Daily challenges are presented to push swimmers towards achieving SCS and USA Swimming cuts.
  • Representation: Qualified members represent CAC at all Championship meets.
  • Contribution to Program Development: Active participation in enhancing the CAC Age Group Program.

Group Placement Criteria:

  • Key Factors: Placement is determined by a series of key factors, including performance, coachability, and group dynamics.
  • Coach's Discretion: The coach's discretion also plays a significant role in group placement.
  • Performance Standards: Individuals must meet attendance and meet participation requirements to maintain their placement.

Long-Term Relationship:

  • Beginning of a Journey: Placement in this group signifies the initiation of a long-term relationship with coaches, teammates, and the sport itself.
  • College Swimming: This group prepares individuals for the expectation of collegiate swimming.

Required Equipment:

  • Fins
  • Snorkel
  • Paddles
  • Kickboard
  • Pull Buoy
  • Water bottle

The CAC Senior Prep Group offers a pathway to excellence, providing swimmers with the tools, guidance, and support needed to achieve their highest potential in the pool and beyond.

 

CAC SENIOR PROGRAM

The Senior 1 (SR1) Squad at Cerritos Aquatic Club is designed for swimmers aged 13-18, with a target age range of 15-18. This program serves as a steppingstone into higher-end senior swimming. Below are the key details and objectives of the Senior 1 program:

Age Range: 13-18

Target Age: 15-18

Typical Schedule: 5-6 workouts per week

Entry Qualifications: Swimmers are selected to join the Senior 1 Squad by their respective coach and the Head Age Group Coach. To be considered for the Senior 1 squad, swimmers must have mature competitive strokes and ample swim meet experience. They should also have proven competitive races in the 100IM, 200FR, and be willing to strive for competing in the 200IM, 500FR, and all 200s of each stroke.

Description: The Senior 1 Squad is designed to cater to swimmers aged 13-18 who may not yet meet the minimum criteria for the Senior 2 & 3 squads. It is also suitable for first-time year-round swimmers or those who wish to supplement their high school training. Regular attendance at practices is highly recommended, particularly for those aspiring to advance to the Senior 1 Squad. Swimmers in this group are committed to improving their swimming abilities and fitness levels. The ultimate goal is for all swimmers to perform at a high level on their high school teams and eventually enter the Senior Squad. This training squad provides an opportunity for athletes to mature physically and emotionally among their peers. Success in this group depends on increased commitment, attendance, and practice effort. Goal setting is an integral part of the training throughout the year.

Primary Objectives:

  • Continue refining all four competitive strokes in more intensive and physically demanding training sessions.
  • Expand knowledge of competitive swimming, including aquatic postures, body awareness, aquatic rhythms, listening skills, coachability, and the core values of being part of the Cerritos Aquatic Club.
  • Work on improving identified weaknesses in the athlete's swimming abilities.
  • Prioritize starts, turns, and the efficient use of the body in the aquatic environment.
  • Emphasize the importance of water efficiency for achieving fast swimming.
  • Aim to earn SCS (Southern California Swimming) times in their respective age group in all four competitive strokes.

Attendance and Meet Expectations:

  • Senior One Swimmers are expected to attend 80% of workouts to maintain conditioning and progress within the Cerritos Aquatic Club curriculum.
  • Attend at least 4 Swim Meets in the SCY (Short Course Yards) season and 2 Swim Meets in the LCM (Long Course Meters) Season, including all Cerritos Aquatic Club-hosted meets, as well as all qualified Championship Meets.

The Senior 1 program is designed to help swimmers transition into higher-level senior swimming and prepare them for more advanced training and competition. It places a strong emphasis on refining strokes, improving efficiency in the water, and fostering a commitment to the sport.

 

The SENIOR 2 (SR2) Squad at Cerritos Aquatic Club is designed for swimmers aged 14 and up, with a target age range of 15-18. This program is intended for athletes who are preparing for continued progression in senior-level swimming. Here are the key details and objectives of the Senior Squad program:

Age Range: 14 and up

Target Age: 15-18

Typical Schedule: 7-8 workouts per week, which may include morning training sessions and dryland training.

Entry Qualifications: Swimmers are selected to join the Senior 2 Squad by their respective coaches, as well as the Head Coach. To qualify for the Senior 2 Squad, swimmers must have proven competitive times in all competitive races. Automatic qualification is considered for swimmers who meet specific time standards, such as the 14-Year-Old Girls Winter SCS Time standards in all four competitive strokes for either gendered swimmer.

Description: The Senior Squad is designed for athletes who are committed to applying all their aquatic skills in preparation for continued advancement in senior-level swimming. Swimmers in the Senior 2 Squad are working toward entry into the National Squad, SCS (Southern California Swimming) Age Group Regional, and Senior Sectional Competitions. This training squad provides an opportunity for athletes to continue maturing physically and emotionally among their peer group. Senior 2 Squad swimmers are expected to have a thorough understanding of the principles of the Cerritos Aquatic Club philosophy and curriculum. The training regimen includes mental, physical, and physiological aspects, with dryland training as a part of the program. Success in this squad is based on increased commitment levels in attendance and practice effort, and goal setting is an integral part of the training throughout the year.

Primary Objectives:

  • Develop and apply training mechanisms based on self-awareness.
  • Refine all four competitive strokes through more intensive and physically demanding training sessions.
  • Expand knowledge of competitive swimming, including aquatic postures, body awareness, aquatic rhythms, listening skills, coachability, and the core values of being a part of the Cerritos Aquatic Club.
  • Work on improving identified weaknesses in the athlete's aquatic abilities.
  • Prioritize starts, turns, and the efficient use of the body in the aquatic environment.
  • Familiarize athletes with safe and healthy training activities that promote injury prevention as they progress through their swimming career.
  • Understand the importance of water efficiency for achieving fast swimming.
  • Aim to achieve specific time standards, including SCS Champs, Age Group Regional times in their respective age group, and Senior Sectional Time standards.
  • Prepare for the possibility of continuing their swimming career at the collegiate level.

Attendance and Meet Expectations:

  • Senior Squad swimmers are recommended to attend 100% of workouts and are expected to attend at least 90% of workouts to achieve their goals.
  • Swimmers should understand that any break in training prior to championship meets is not conducive to optimal preparation for competitive goal achievement.
  • Senior Squad swimmers are expected to attend all listed competitions for their squad, including all qualified Championship meets.

The Senior 2 Squad program is designed to prepare swimmers for high-level competition and potentially for collegiate swimming while focusing on refining strokes, improving efficiency, and fostering a strong commitment to the sport.

The SENIOR 3 (SR3) Squad at Cerritos Aquatic Club is designed for swimmers aged 13-18, with a target age range of 13-18. This program is intended for advanced competitive swimmers who are preparing for elite age group and senior-level competitions. Here are the key details and objectives of the SENIOR 3 Squad program:

Age Range: 13-18

Target Age: 13-18

Typical Schedule: 7-8 workouts per week, which may include morning training sessions and dryland training.

Entry Qualifications: Swimmers are selected to join the SENIOR 3 Squad by their respective coach, such as the Junior National coach, as well as the Head Coach. To qualify for the SENIOR 3 Squad, swimmers must have proven competitive times in all competitive races. Automatic qualification is considered for swimmers who meet specific time standards, such as the 13-Year-Old Boys Age Group Regional Time standards in all four competitive strokes for either gendered swimmer.

Description: The SENIOR 3 Squad is an advanced competitive group that focuses on preparing swimmers for National Training, Senior Training, Senior Sectional, and Junior National competitions. This program is geared towards athletes who are willing to make swimming a high priority in their lives and aspire to perform at the elite age group and senior levels. The SENIOR 3 Squad utilizes mental, physical, and physiological training, and dryland training is incorporated into the program. Swimmers in this squad are expected to have a strong understanding of the basic principles of the Cerritos Aquatic Club philosophy and curriculum. Success in this squad is based on a high level of commitment to attendance and practice effort, and goal setting is an integral part of the training throughout the year.

Primary Objectives:

  • Continue to develop and refine all four competitive strokes in intense training sessions.
  • Demonstrate competence and skill in efficiently applying aquatic postures, body awareness, aquatic rhythms, listening skills, coachability, and the core values of being a part of Cerritos Aquatic Club.
  • Execute starts, turns, and the efficient use of the body in the aquatic environment.
  • Be familiar with and apply the primary aspects required to compete at the high-end senior level.
  • Develop safe and healthy training activities that promote injury prevention as swimmers progress through their careers.
  • Achieve efficiency in the water in all aspects of training and racing.
  • Aim to achieve Senior Sectional time standards.

Attendance and Meet Expectations:

  • SENIOR 3 swimmers are recommended to attend 100% of workouts and are expected to attend at least 90% of workouts to achieve their goals.
  • Swimmers should understand that any break in training prior to championship meets is not conducive to optimal preparation for competitive goal achievement.
  • SENIOR 3 swimmers are expected to attend all listed competitions for their squad, including all qualified Championship meets.

Entrance into and removal from the SENIOR 3 Squad is at the sole discretion of the SENIOR 3 Squad coach and the head coach, with a strong emphasis on competitive achievement and commitment to the training group. This program is designed for swimmers who are dedicated to advancing their swimming careers to the highest levels of competition.

 

 

SWIMMER EXPECTATIONS

The Cerritos Aquatic Club has established a comprehensive set of expectations for swimmers and their parents to ensure a positive and productive swimming experience. These expectations cover behavior, communication, involvement in workouts, swim meets, and overall attitudes towards the sport. Here's a summary of the key expectations for both swimmers and parents:

Swimmer Expectations:

Behavior:

  1. Leave outside stress or issues at the door and be mentally prepared for each practice.
  2. Display knowledge, effort, and a desire to improve as a swimmer.
  3. Set goals and understand what it takes to achieve them.

Communication:

  1. Keep communication open; ask questions and provide feedback.
  2. Don't hesitate to ask questions if you don't understand coaching points, concepts, or instructions.
  3. Fill out your squad or team goal sheet.

Workouts:

  1. Arrive on the pool deck at least 10 minutes before practice starts.
  2. Come prepared with all necessary equipment.
  3. Respect the facility.
  4. Behave in a friendly and courteous manner towards teammates and coaches.
  5. Do not interfere with another swimmer's progress in any way.
  6. Do not disrupt the coach or other swimmers during teaching.
  7. Be aware of all lessons during practice.
  8. Follow the tasks given by the coach; ask for clarification if needed.
  9. Proper behavior in the locker room is expected at all times.
  10. Always give your best effort, both physically and emotionally.

Swim Meets:

  1. Have thorough knowledge of the meet's location, time, and events entered.
  2. Arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled warm-up time and check in with the coach.
  3. Take responsibility for positive check-in if required.
  4. Speak with your coach before and after each race.
  5. Speak with your coach before leaving the competition.
  6. Show respect to fellow swimmers, coaches, meet officials, and volunteers.
  7. Encourage and support all your teammates by watching and cheering them on.

These expectations set the foundation for a responsible, respectful, and dedicated approach to swimming, emphasizing the importance of communication, teamwork, and personal improvement.

PARENT EXPECTATIONS

The Cerritos Aquatic Club has established clear expectations for parents of swimmers. These expectations encompass behavior, communication, involvement in workouts, swim meets, and the overall attitude and outlook towards the sport. Here is a summary of these expectations:

Behavior:

  • Support your child without imposing your ambitions on them.
  • Be supportive no matter the outcome.
  • Avoid coaching your child; leave coaching to the professionals.
  • Maintain a positive attitude at competitions.
  • Acknowledge your child's fears and concerns.
  • Refrain from criticizing officials.
  • Show respect and appreciation for your child's coach.
  • Demonstrate loyalty and support for the team.
  • Encourage your child to have goals beyond just winning.
  • Avoid unrealistic expectations, such as expecting your child to become an Olympian.

Communication:

  • Contact your child's coach through email for any questions or concerns.
  • Schedule meetings with staff members before or after workouts if needed.
  • Stay informed by regularly checking the team's website.
  • Respond promptly to coach communications.

Workouts:

  • Observe practices from designated viewing areas.
  • Do not make verbal or physical contact with your child during workouts.
  • Gestures to swimmers are prohibited.
  • Refrain from communicating with the coach during practice unless it's urgent.
  • Allow the coach to focus on coaching.

Swim Meets:

  • Familiarize yourself with the meet schedule on the website.
  • Ensure your child arrives on deck at least 20 minutes before their warm-up time.
  • Encourage and maintain a positive attitude with your child.
  • Promote healthy nutritional choices.

Attitude and Outlook:

  • Recognize that success in swimming, as in life, includes both wins and losses.
  • Avoid disciplining your child for poor swimming performance, as it can lead to dislike for the sport and low self-esteem.
  • Understand that swimmers won't achieve personal bests every time.
  • Avoid offering materialistic rewards for good performances.
  • Emphasize the value of the swimming experience itself.
  • Encourage your child to have fun and remember that swimming can help them in life beyond the sport.

These expectations encourage parents to be supportive, respectful, and understanding of their child's swimming journey, promoting a positive and healthy experience for both the child and the family.

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