All of the criteria below must be met in order for an athlete to be fully prepared for the next stage in their development.  Fast swimming alone is not a compelling enough reason to push a swimmer to the next level.

Physical

• an complete sets for level six (below)

• continually improves dryland gains

Cognitive

• assumes ownership of seasonal plan and makes each effort of each set of each practice count

Competitive Performance

• An individual NCSA Junior Championship time standard in at least one event

Biomechanical Progression

• continues to decrease time and/or stroke cycles; more efficient in every way…starts, turns and finishes

Character Development & Life Skills

• accepts responsibility for being leader and role model to younger / newer swimmers

• has mastered time management skills so outside demands do not interfere with swimming

Commitment & Team Loyalty

• knows they may have to sacrifice self interests for the good of the team

• leads by positive example; in and out of the water

Psychological Skills

• utilizes relaxation and visualization techniques to maintain optimum level of arousal at meets

• can "see, hear and feel" during visualization

• can quickly rebound from mistakes and failures 

• can swim your own race regardless of meet