Spring training for Dumfries swimmers

Swimmers in Dumfries have taken part in a spring training camp thanks to support from Story Homes.

Dumfries Amateur Swimming Club used to train at the Dumfries Leisure Complex which closed in October 2014 for repairs. The club currently make use of a temporary pool leftover from the 2012 Olympics which is only 1.2m deep, and is a short-term measure.

The club approached Story Homes to support a training camp, to give the children consistent training opportunities in a competition standard facility. They attended a three-day training camp in Workington over the Easter holidays.

This gave them the opportunity for diving practice in a deeper pool, time to perfect their swimming technique and to train as a team.
Swimming coach Phil Stewart said “This has been such a brilliant experience for the team and without the support of Story Homes just wouldn’t have been possible.

“It’s noticeable when we go to competitions that the team aren’t confident diving into the deeper water so these three days away in a competition sized pool have made the world of difference. They have come on leaps and bounds!”

Over the three days, the team took part in gym sessions, team bonding workshops and training in the pool to increase their strength, stamina and confidence.

Ian Storey, Managing Director of Story Homes said; “We are delighted to be able to help the team with their training camp.
“The discipline and skills that are gained through training as part of a team are great life skills.”

For 30 years Story Homes have built up a reputation for supporting the communities in the areas surrounding their developments. ‘Future Story’ is the company wide scheme designed to support requests from local charities and community organisations. Its focus is on supporting communities in ways that add long term value, for example, by helping people to develop skills or confidence that will last them a lifetime.

The scheme is run on a quarterly basis and applications for the current round should be submitted online by May 31. Further information can be found on the Story Homes website.