Questions about DUSC
Durham University Swimming Club is one of Durham’s liveliest, most dedicated and fastest improving sports teams. We aim to provide both pool and land training for swimmers in Durham and Stockton and also to compete in local and national BUSA competitions. Over the past few years we have expanded from a small squad who usually did a quick pool session before heading out to the pub, to one of the universities largest and most successful teams, whilst still retaining the great spirit of friendship given by the original members.
Our main pool sessions take place at Durham School pool and occasionally at Durham City baths with 5 sessions planned per week for the 2005-06 season. We are also able to attend sessions with the Gateshead and Whickham swimming club at the 25m pools at Felling and Dunston and our elite swimmers are encouraged to join weekly sessions with the Durham Aquatics squad, training alongside some of the best swimmers in the North East. We take part in a wide range of land work opportunities based at Maiden Castle, including Team Durham circuits where we are able to train with other university sports teams, and regular weights sessions in the gym. There is no set minimum number of sessions that a member must attend however a suitable level of commitment is expected from swimmers aiming for first team selection. For up to date information on current sessions, see our training timetable.
Being a university team, our main competitions are the BUSA championships with the short course gala held in November and the long course in February. Being selected for the BUSA championships means a weekend away with the team, usually in Sheffield, where we make our presence felt as the loudest and best supported team on poolside. During Michaelmas term we also compete in the BUSA team championships as part of the northern region. Last year this took place in Darlington, and this year we hope to progress to the National final which will see us once again competing further afield. We regularly compete in local galas such as the Wear Valley Christmas gala, Gateshead and Whickham Masters, and the Newcastle University Invitational friendly. Last year saw DUSC compete internationally for the first time at a European Student swimming tournament in Holland, with our next trip abroad planned to Spain at Christmas 2005. In addition to the traditional swimming galas, we also take part in biathlons (swimming and running) and modern triathlons (swimming, shooting and running) at both local and BUSA levels.
What can we offer recreational swimmers?
DUSC is primarily a competitive club however one or two sessions per week may be available for a small number of recreational swimmers depending on pool availability. Non competitive swimmers are of course always welcome to join us at our social events. Alternatively, Durham City baths situated close to Durham town centre holds regular sessions open to the public.
What can DUSC offer at Stockton?
Three pool sessions are held for DUSC members based at the Stockton campus per week at the Splash leisure centre. Swimmers at Stockton are encouraged to join in with the land work program based in Durham with transport available to and from the Durham campus. Stockton members compete at all the same competitions as swimmers based in Durham with the University team and also regularly make their presence felt at socials! For the latest training times check the training timetable.
DUSCs team spirit is legendary and so are our socials! With plenty of themed nights such as the T-shirt socials, Christmas party, and the face paint and goggle shots that go with them, we show all Durhams other sports teams exactly how to have a good time! We play grudge matches against the University water polo team, hold an 'Old Boys' weekend and also attend a few glitz and glamour black tie events, making sure that we can recognise each other even without hats and goggles on!
Is Durham the right university for me?
For previously competitive swimmers looking to enjoy training and competing at a reasonably high level, whilst studying for a degree at one of the best universities in the country, Durham is a great choice! Whilst we cannot yet guarantee to provide the training opportunities needed if you're looking to swim professionally or for the national team, we are certainly one of Britains most promising university teams, with access to the planned 50m and 25m pools to be built in Sunderland and Durham in the next 2 to 3 years meaning that much more can be expected from DUSC!
How can I join once I'm at Durham?
The easiest place to find us when you arrive at Durham will be at the Freshers Fair, where we can add you to our mailing list straight away so that you can easily find out what's going on. If you miss this, don't panic, just check out our training times and come and join in!
For more information please contact DUSC club captain Nick Savage.
