Swim Group Structure at Lighthouse Point Yacht Club

Click Here to send us an email request for more information

Sign up is required for a swim test to join.

At LHPYC, our goal is to provide a high-quality swim program for swimmers of all ages, skill levels, and goals—whether they’re just starting or training for competitive meets.

To best support each swimmer’s growth, we divide our team into groups based on age, ability, and commitment level. This allows every swimmer to train in an environment that matches their needs and helps them progress at their own pace.

Each group gradually increases in training intensity and expectations. Younger or newer swimmers focus on developing strong fundamentals and a love for the sport. As swimmers grow and advance, they take on greater challenges both in and out of the water—physically, technically, and mentally.

Why We Split Groups:

We believe that swimmers thrive when they train with others at a similar stage of development. Group placement ensures swimmers receive the right level of instruction, support, and challenge for their current abilities and goals.

Please note: the listed age ranges and skills are general guidelines—not strict requirements. Coaches make all final decisions on group placement and advancement, based on overall readiness, attitude, and consistency.

• Learn to Swim – Small group or private lessons for water safety and confidence.
• Pre-Team – For young swimmers ready to build technique and endurance.
• Competitive Team – Training for local, state, and national meets.
• Masters Swim – For adults looking to stay fit, train, or compete.

Little Skippers (Learn to Swim)

Age: 4–6
Practice: 1-2 times per week
Focus: Water comfort, safety, floating, kicking, breathing, and fun!

This group is for young swimmers just beginning their journey. We focus on building safety, confidence, and having fun in the water while learning the basics like floating, kicking, and blowing bubbles. Learning how to swim 25 yards of freestyle and backstroke

Required Equipment: Swimsuit, Goggles, Swim cap, *Fins, Towel, water bottle

Dolphin Crew (Pre-Team)

Age: 7 & under
Practice: 2–4 times per week
Spots Available: Only 12 swimmers per group!

This is our introductory group for young swimmers who can swim 25 yards of freestyle and backstroke unassisted. In Dolphin Crew, swimmers begin learning all four strokes, underwaters, dives, and turns while building confidence and developing healthy training habits. The focus is on stroke development, teamwork, and preparing for future swim meets in a fun and supportive environment.

Requirements: Swimmers must be able to swim 25 yards unassisted using freestyle and backstroke.

Equipment: kickboard, pull buoy, snorkel, fins, s. paddles, water bottle, goggles, swim cap, towel

Wave Chasers - CrewMates (Swim Team beginners)

Age Range: 8–12
Attendance: 3–5 times per week

For swimmers who are ready to take the next step after Dolphin Crew and commit to being part of the team. In this group, athletes continue developing all four strokes while learning proper starts, turns, streamlines, and underwaters. Practices include interval-based sets, race skills, and intro dryland to build strength and endurance. This group prepares swimmers for regular swim meet participation and builds confidence through consistent training and team connection.

Requirements: Swimmers must demonstrate understanding of all four strokes and swim 50 freestyle in 50 seconds or faster.

Equipment: kickboard, pull buoy, snorkel, fins, paddles, water bottle, goggles, swim cap, towel

Sailfish Squad (Competitive & Advanced Group)

This is our upper-level training group for swimmers committed to racing, performance, and personal growth in and out of the pool. Sailfish Squad athletes train with purpose, develop advanced skills in all four strokes, and focus on racing strategies, endurance, dryland, and leadership. Practices include interval-based sets, stroke refinement, technique details (underwaters, breakouts, starts, and turns), and both morning and evening sessions. Swimmers in this group prepare for high-level meets, including FLAGS, Senior Championships, and national-level competitions.

Age Range: 11+
Attendance: 4–6 practices per week, including dryland

Requirements:

• Ability to swim all four strokes and complete IMX events
• Demonstrate commitment, consistency, and competitive mindset
• FLAGS or Senior Champs qualifying times (recommended for upper tier)

Focus Areas:

• High-performance training and racing
• Strategic development and race planning
• Leadership, goal setting, and team culture
• Introduction to weight training and advanced dryland

Equipment: kickboard, pull buoy, snorkel, fins, paddles, water bottle, goggles, swim cap, towel

Captain’s Circle (Adults / U.S. Masters)

This group is for adults who want to stay active, improve their technique, and enjoy the community of swimming—whether you're training for a race or just swimming for health. Masters Swim is part of U.S. Masters Swimming and welcomes all levels, from former athletes to first-time lap swimmers.

Age: 18+
Attendance: Flexible—see full schedule under “Practice Schedule” tab
Focus: Technique, fitness, fun, and connection

More Info: Visit usms.org and check the “Masters” tab on our website

Recommended Equipment: kickboard, pull buoy, snorkel, fins, paddles, water bottle, goggles, swim cap, towel

Conditioning Group (Recreational Teens)

This group is designed for middle and high school swimmers who want to stay in shape, enjoy swimming, and improve skills—without the pressure of competition or year-round commitment. It’s a great option for multi-sport athletes, off-season swimmers, or anyone who enjoys swimming as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Age: 12–18
Attendance: Flexible (join as your schedule allows)
Focus: Fitness, technique, and fun in a no-pressure environment

Optional: Swimmers may join meets or move to our competitive team if interested

Required Equipment: Swimsuit, goggles, swim cap, towel
Recommended Equipment: Fins, kickboard, water bottle