Welwyn Garden Swimming Club

The Welwyn Garden Swimming Club, based in New Zealand, is dedicated to helping children and young people improve their swimming strokes. With over 80 years of experience, the club is committed to teaching swimming and promoting personal survival skills. The club actively participates in various swimming galas and championships, including the Peanuts League and the Major League.

The main swimming session takes place on Sunday evenings at the Hatfield Swim Centre. This facility offers a conducive environment for swimmers to practise and hone their skills. In addition to swimming sessions, the club also conducts life-saving sessions at the Monks Walk School pool, where children have the opportunity to gain recognised life-saving qualifications.

All the club teachers are highly experienced and offer their services on a voluntary basis. They have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that they pass on to the young swimmers. The club also organises social events for swimmers and their families, including a fun gala and an inflatable party, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Welwyn Garden Swimming Club has a rich history that dates back to 1933. Founded by local General Practitioners, Dr Miall-Smith and his wife, the club started with a pool created at Stanborough by diverting the River Lea and freshwater springs. The GPs taught swimming and introduced mile trophy swims, kickstarting the competitive side of the club. They also conducted regular galas before the war and had a renowned water polo team.

The club is affiliated with Swim England East Region, Swim England Hertfordshire, and RLSS. As a SwimMark accredited club, it has achieved the highest standard in “Swimming at Teaching Level. ” This accreditation acknowledges the club's commitment to providing safe and effective services for the benefit of its members.

Welwyn Garden Swimming Club relies heavily on the dedication and support of volunteers. The club values poolside helpers and teachers, as well as non-technical support during hosted galas. If you are interested in contributing as a volunteer, please contact a committee member or one of the teachers.

The club shop, located at the Hatfield Swim Centre, offers a range of club-branded swimming costumes, trunks, bags, hats, goggles, and goggle straps. The shop is open between 6-7pm on most Sunday swim sessions, and purchases can be picked up at the next training session.

The club runs swimming sessions at various locations, including Hatfield Swim Centre, Monk's Walk School in Welwyn Garden City, and Hertingfordbury Cowper School near Hertford. Detailed information about the days, times, and squads for each session is provided on the club's website.

If you are interested in joining the Welwyn Garden Swimming Club or would like more information, please visit the club's contact page. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced swimmer, the club welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities to become part of their swimming community.