There is a proud and distinguished history of swimming at Willow.
Swimming is part of the weekly school time-table and all pupils are competent swimmers. The boys also have the opportunity to take part in weekly Lane Swimming, and our competitive swimming team the Willow Sharks.
The Campus provides two swimming pools and competitive swimming groups have on-going, early morning training throughout the school year, allowing them to participate at Leinster and All-Ireland championships. In recent years, Willow swimmers have represented Ireland at national level and are continually improving under the inspired coaching of Mr. James Lawless.
Weekly Lane Swimming in the Willow Pool
Lane Swimming was introduced to provide a facility for pupils who just enjoy the exercise – or who want or incrementally improve their fitness and skills.
Some Lane Swimmers graduate to competitive swimming with the Willow Sharks; however, the purpose of the sessions is the joy of being in ‘one’s element’!
Lane swimming is a non-competitive, coached morning session every Friday morning 7-8am at the Willow pool. Our coaches come from the mentor programme run by the Blackrock College swim team, all have a minimum of Level 1 NTA swim teaching qualification and are experienced swimmers. Matthew Long is our 2017-2018 coach.
Sessions focus on stroke technique, improving stamina and cardiovascular fitness. Sessions are open to swimmers in 3rd form and above who are comfortable in the water and can swim at least one length competently.
The cost is €4 per session payable per term in advance.
Minimum standards to join:
- An ability to swim at least one full length of the pool with relative ease.
- A genuine interest in swimming
- Being punctual and responsible.
A parent supervisory rota is in operation and supervisors must be Garda vetted in accordance with the whole school policy.