As a club we are continually exploring how we can reduce barriers to participation for all of our swimmers and ensure that our sport is fully inclusive.
Puberty seems to be a difficult time for girls in sport with recent studies showing that up to one out of three girls feel uncomfortable doing sport while menstruating, and this statistic is likely to be higher in swimming. We have been looking at ways in which we can help girls navigate this difficult time and keep girls swimming. With this in mind, we are looking into potential sponsorship with a company supplying period swimwear. We are also, with the funding from our sponsors The College of Animal Welfare (CAW Business School), in the process of purchasing some period swimwear that Team Managers can carry at galas and meets for emergency situations. We have already purchased some waterproof make up bags which will contain a pair of plain period bikini bottoms which can be discreetly worn underneath a swimming costume. Anyone needing these can speak to a team manager or coach. Please assure your swimmer that this will be completely confidential and dealt with in a professional manner. Hopefully we will have more news to follow, watch this space!
