Our 2026-2027 Pathway Development Squad and support team
2026/2027 Squad selection criteria:
Swimmers will be selected for the 2026/2027 Sussex Develop Pathway Programme on the basis of performance at the 2026 County Championships and Age Group Competition.
- The top 12 swimmers from all events, identified using World Aquatic points, in each age group (10yrs, 11yrs and 12yrs) and gender will gain automatic qualification.
- The selectors; County Coach, Team Manager and Programme Lead, reserve the right to invite any other swimmer they feel could attain the standard of performance required.
In 2026 all camps will be held at Hillbrow Health and Wellbeing in Eastbourne. The camps will be on:
Leadership
Delivery of the programme will be through:
- Programme lead – Simon Taylor
- Head Coach – Lisa Chapman (Hastings Seagull SC). Lisa will be supported by lane skills coaches in the pool.
- Strength & Conditioning Coach – Stephan Heckman (Eastbourne SC)
- Sports Psychology – Amanda Warner, BSc (Hons), MSc, GMBPsS
Read Amanda’s bio: I am a Sport and Exercise Psychologist in training, working with individuals and groups to support people in living well—whether that means achieving sporting ambitions or building healthier everyday habits. I am currently studying for a Professional Doctorate in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Portsmouth, with a focus on helping people develop positive relationships with physical activity by changing behaviours and beliefs.
I have experience working with a wide range of people, including commonwealth-level athletes, individuals aiming for national competition, recreational exercisers, and young adults with SEND. Alongside my professional work, I teach group fitness classes including Body Pump, Body Combat, and Les Mills Shapes, and I enjoy outdoor activities including trail running, walking and skiing.
