London Roar, one of the founding teams of the International Swimming League, on Thursday announced the launch of the London Roar Academy in the heart of the capital “to maximise developmental opportunities for participating clubs and their members.”
It accompanied news from founder Konstantin Grigorishin that the ISL is looking to establish junior swim leagues across the world.
The academy will launch with four London-based clubs – Chelsea, Hackney, Greenwich and Anaconda – with the objective of expansion over the coming months with interest from other clubs welcomed as it establishes itself as a city-wide performance squad built on the foundation of home club programmes.
A statement read:
“At the core of the academy’s ethos is a desire of member clubs to join forces, working in a more streamlined, targeted and cost-effective manner by sharing their resources and experiences to increase the opportunities available for swimmers at all levels.
“Ultimately, increasing the talent pool across London and providing the foundation programme for the London Roar team.”
Photo Courtesy: MIKE LEWIS / ISL
Olympic 100m breaststroke champion Adam Peaty, who competes for London Roar, has often spoken of his desire to leave a legacy within the sport.
He said:
“The launch of the London Roar Academy is really exciting and a great opportunity for these club swimmers to develop their swimming and have fun whilst improving their skills by training together.
“One of the best things about the ISL for me has been the opportunity to train and compete alongside some of the greatest swimmers in the world and our team spirit has always been second to none.
“I think it’s a great development for ISL and swimming.”
General Manager Rob Woodhouse added:
“The launch of the revolutionary International Swimming League in 2019 marked a turning point for the sport and, as the ISL prepares for Season 3 later this year, the creation of the London Roar Academy recognises the importance of investing in and supporting swimming from its grassroots.
“I believe this Academy will help attract young Londoners into the sport and I hope that we will see some of these swimmers in future ISL seasons.
“We look forward to supporting their journey.”
Rob Woodhouse: Photo Courtesy: Mike Lewis/ISL
Lisa Bates, Director of Swimming at Chelsea & Westminster Swimming Club, believes the academy will bring exciting new opportunities for club swimmers, saying:
“The ISL brought an innovative dimension to our sport, with London Roar being one of the founding members.
“In sync with the senior team, proudly, the London Roar Academy will elevate training and racing opportunities for swimmers and coaches across London.
“The network is open to all London clubs and aims to unite the capital’s top performing swimmers through training, racing and hosting camps and competitions together.”
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