Coastal Maine Aquatics uses a "progressive" age group program designed to develop the child physically, mentally and emotionally in a systematic fashion. The emphasis in the early stages of participation is placed on developing both technical skills and a love for the sport. In the later years, a more demanding physical and psychological challenge is introduced to the training program in order to achieve maximum potential in senior swimming and beyond.

At each level, the goals and objectives are specific and directed toward meeting the needs of the swimmer. The long term goal of total excellence is always in mind. As each child is different, he/she will progress at his/her own rate. The coaching staff recognizes this fact by making group assignments based on a swimmer's physical, mental, and emotional level of development.

This group is made up of our top competitors who have demonstrated advanced commitment to the sport of swimming with CMA.  Athletes are expected to be mature, dedicated, responsible, and dependable.  Main focus of this group is working towards competing at the regional and national level and pursuing excellence both in and out of the water.  

1. As determined by the Head Coach, practice attendance is expected 100% of the time.  Sessions will be offered 5-9 times a week for 1-3 hours (depending on pool availability).  Athletes are required to attend Dryland training 2-3 times per week. 
2. A year-round commitment is expected whereby CMA Swimming is your primary extracurricular activity.  Practices will be group focused; however, individual attention will be paid to athletes working on specific cut times for upper level meets.
3. Attendance at all upper-level meets which the athlete qualifies for is required along with all CMA home meets, Bowdoin Open and both MSI Championships.
4. Very close communication is required between athlete and coach regarding attendance, health, nutrition, and school issues. 

This group is made up of athletes striving to get to the National level or have self-selected out of the National commitment requirements.  The commitment here is designed for athletes who    desire to take their swimming beyond the age group level.  Advanced skills and higher levels of competition offer the determined swimmer an excellent opportunity to evolve into a top      athlete.       

1. As determined by the Head Coach in conjunction with the athlete, practice attendance is expected the majority of the time.  Sessions will be offered 5-8 times a week for 1-3 hours (depending on pool availability).   Athletes are required to attend Dryland training twice a week.   
2. A year-round commitment is expected – even when the athlete’s schedule is scattered with other activities.  Close communication is required between athlete and coach regarding attendance and any issues which may conflict with CMA swim practices. 
3. Attendance at all upper-level meets which the athlete qualifies for is required along with all CMA home meets, Bowdoin Open and both MSI Championships.
4. Close communication between athlete and coach is necessary in order to get the most out of the athlete’s commitment. 

1. Participation at swim practice is strongly encouraged 3 – 6 sessions a week (depending on pool availability and commitments to other activities).
2. A seasonal or year-round goal-setting commitment is expected.
3. Dryland training is optional and will be offered at an additional cost. 
4. Attendance at all CMA home meets, MSI Championships, and Bowdoin Open is expected. 
5. Those athletes who are swimming with CMA to prepare for their HS seasons will be allowed to come back to CMA practice after HS States up through CMA Winter Championships March 14-17 at no additional cost.  

1. Dryland Training is required 1-2 times a week. 
2. Swimmers should be committed to training 4 or more times a week. 
3. Achievement of National Age Group Reportable Time Standards is a common goal.
4. Regular participation at home, local and travel meets including Championships and Bowdoin Open is expected.
5. Athletes are encouraged to participate in cross-training when it doesn’t interfere with CMA practices and meets.
6. Athletes are expected to participate year-round.

1. Swimmers should be a minimum of 7 years old and be able to demonstrate a firm understanding of all 4 strokes.
2. Swimmers should plan to attend 3-4 practices per week.
3. Participation in all home and local meets is expected.
4. Athletes are encouraged to participate in cross-training as well.VERILVER

1. Swimmers must be at least 6 years old and be able to participate in a sizeable group.
2. It is recommended to attend at least 3 practices a week and to compete in all home        meets as well as selected novice meets.

1. Each swimmer in this group must be able to swim from one end of the pool to the other without stopping using backstroke and some form of freestyle with face in the water. 
2. Swimmers must be at least 6 years old and be able to follow directions and be deep-water safe.