Goal setting becomes increasingly important as swimmers move into the Age Group Performance stage. Training volume increases, competition standards rise, and swimmers begin to experience the pressure of expectations — both internal and external. At this stage, goals are no longer just about what swimmers want to achieve, but how they approach their training, racing, and daily habits. This guide explains how Outcome, Performance, and Process Goals work together

Understanding the higher entry standards As swimmers progress through competitive swimming, questions naturally shift from “What are Counties?” to “What comes next?” For many swimmers, that next step is the Swim England South East Region Long Course Championships — often referred to simply as Regionals. For 2026, the entry standards are faster than in previous seasons.

Keeping teenagers engaged in swimming is one of the biggest challenges across the sport. National research consistently shows high dropout rates during the mid-teens, with many swimmers stepping away from the sport due to pressure, school commitments, or loss of enjoyment. Against this backdrop, Bluefins has achieved something rare: five consecutive years of growth in our 15+ age group. From 2021 to 2025, our senior swimmers have risen from 27 to 58.

Bluefins Masters has built a reputation for setting standards that extend beyond competition results alone. Across multiple seasons, swimmers have delivered performances that have translated into record-breaking achievements at British, European and World Masters level. ​ The club holds a growing collection of British, European and World Records, achieved across individual events and relay teams. These records span mixed, men’s and women’s categories and reflect depth acros

Bluefins Masters has built a reputation for setting standards that extend beyond competition results alone. Across multiple seasons, swimmers have delivered performances that have translated into record-breaking achievements at British, European and World Masters level. ​ The club holds a growing collection of British, European and World Records, achieved across individual events and relay teams. These records span mixed, men’s and women’s categories and reflect depth acros