London Roar Launches Swimming Academy As ISL Reveals Goal To Establish Global Junior Leagues
ISL LONDON ROAR LAUNCHES NEW SWIMMING ACADEMY
London Roar, one of the founding teams of the Pro-Swim International Swimming League (ISL), today launches The London Roar Academy (LRA) at the heart of the British capital “to maximise developmental opportunities for participating clubs and their members”.
The launch was accompanied by news that the ISL intends to establish junior swim leagues in nations across the world as part of a planned network of programs and activities that would help feed champions of the future into the elite, senior League as the professional era in swimming gathers momentum.
Konstantin Grigorishin, founder of the ISL, welcomed the Academy and the prospect it raises: “The ISL is delighted to see this Academy launched in London. Our goal is to establish junior swim leagues in nations across the world. I look forward to seeing the … Academy develop many future ISL champions.”
The Academy is endorsed by one of the kings of the Roar pride, Olympic and World Champion Adam Peaty, who 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.”
Adam Peaty, member of London Roar, the ISL Pro-Swim Team – images courtesy of ISL and, top right, Arena
In a statement, London Roar noted: “At the core of the Academy’s ethos is the collective 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. The LRA vision is to create a sustainable legacy across London, open to all, focusing on enhanced performance, coaching, collaboration and participation.
Four Clubs Sign Up At Launch Of London Roar Academy
Launching with four London based clubs initially – Chelsea, Hackney, Greenwich and Anaconda – the Academy will be expanding over the coming months and welcomes interest from other clubs as it establishes itself as a London-wide performance squad built on the foundation of strong and successful home club programmes.
General Manager of London Roar Rob Woodhouse said:
“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 grass roots. 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, London Roar GM
Lisa Bates, Director of Swimming at Chelsea & Westminster Swimming Club believes the Academy will bring exciting new opportunities for Club swimmers: “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 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.”