From Learn to Swim to National Stage at ASV

There was a real buzz around Aberdeen Sports Village Aquatics Centre as the Scottish National Age Groups (SNAGs) returned from 4–8 April.

Among those competing were four familiar faces, Madisyn, Jessica, Madison and Taylor, all connected to Aberdeen Sports Village’s Learn to Swim programme.

Their journeys highlight the opportunities available through ASV’s swimming pathway, from first experiences in the water to competitive swimming, volunteering and teaching.

From learner to teacher

For Madisyn and Jessica, their journey has come full circle.

Both came through ASV’s volunteer route, gaining hands-on poolside experience while learning on the job and progressing into teaching roles within the Learn to Swim programme.

“I remember coming in on my first volunteering shift, everyone was just so welcoming.”

Madison also progressed through the programme, completing her teaching course with ASV last year before gaining employment as part of the Learn to Swim team.

Together, the three are now giving back to the programme that helped shape them, supporting sessions and helping younger swimmers develop confidence and skills in the water.

A pathway to performance

Alongside them, Taylor’s journey highlights the full Learn to Swim pathway.

Taylor started in Adult and Child lessons at just nine months old, moved into the Wee Swimmers programme at age three, and then progressed through the Junior levels all the way to Club Ready.

She then gained a place at Bridge of Don Swimming Club, one of the partner clubs for University of Aberdeen Performance Swimming.

Taylor also made full use of the opportunities available through Learn to Swim membership, including free public swimming. By regularly coming along for extra swims with her family, she was able to build confidence in the water, practise her skills and, just as importantly, have fun.

She also took part in ASV’s holiday intensive swimming camps, which helped accelerate her development and progression through the pathway.

Now, at just 10 years old, she is competing at national level.

All four swimmers are part of the University of Aberdeen Performance Swimming programme, continuing their development within a strong performance environment linked to ASV.

Learning, competing and giving back

Competing at a national level brings its own challenges, especially when you are one of the youngest in the field.

“It’s cool to be the youngest, but it’s not so cool when you’re racing all the older ones,” Taylor explained. “But it makes you go faster.”

That mindset, learning through challenge, is something Madisyn, Jessica and Madison now pass on to younger swimmers in the programme.

“Everyone learns in their own way. And I think sometimes swimming is more mental than physical. The programme is really good at supporting that.”

Their role in Learn to Swim is about more than just technique. It is about building confidence, sharing experience and helping the next generation enjoy the sport.

“It’s about passing on our passion for swimming and helping younger swimmers enjoy it the way we do.”

A team-first atmosphere

The atmosphere at SNAGs was something all four swimmers spoke about, particularly the sense of team spirit.

“I just love the atmosphere...everyone supports each other.”

For Taylor, competing at SNAGs for the first time made it even more memorable.

“It was my first year, and I got to swim three relays. We dressed up with tutus and tinsel, it was really fun...and seeing other teams dressed up as well.”

Enjoying the moment

Having experienced the pressures of competing at a young age, they were clear about one thing - enjoyment matters.

“The first few years were quite hard mentally because we were so young. But now we’ve learned it’s about enjoying it, and when you enjoy it, you swim better.”

Their advice to younger swimmers reflects that.

“Just try to enjoy it as much as you can. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself...If you’ve made it here, even making a final [is something] people dream about, so just be grateful and enjoy it.”

A pathway in action

Their journeys - from Learn to Swim to national competition - show what the programme at ASV can offer at every stage.

For some, that journey now includes volunteering, qualifications and teaching. For others, like Taylor, it is about progressing through the programme and competing at the highest level for their age group.

With access to high-quality facilities and a supportive environment, they have developed not only as swimmers, but as role models.

“It’s one of the best facilities in Scotland...we’ve got access to everything, and everyone here is really accommodating. It feels very team orientated.”

As the next generation of swimmers take their first steps in the pool, they are being supported by a programme that develops confidence, ability and a lifelong connection to the sport.

Whether you are just starting out, returning to the water, or looking to build skills and confidence, our aquatics team is here to help you take the next step in our outstanding facilities. Start or continue your Learn to Swim journey with ASV today.

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