From Nervous Beginner to Bronze Squad Swimmer

From Nervous Beginner to Bronze Squad Swimmer: Seven-Year-Old Mia Joins Dereham Otters

Seven-year-old Mia Ellerker has started training with Dereham Otters Swimming Club — just one year after she was too nervous to put her head underwater.

Twelve months ago, Mia couldn’t swim at all. The water felt intimidating, and even the thought of submerging her face was overwhelming. She started lessons at Gem’s Aquastars Swim School in Swanton Morley last April and gradually began to grow in confidence and something just clicked!

Angela, her swim teacher at the swim school, said: “Mia joined us in Stage 2 needing support with buoyancy and aquatic breathing, but she was always keen to focus on her technique. It’s been lovely to see how determined she is and how quickly she has progressed through the stages.”

Encouraged by her instructors and inspired by watching her older sister Lily, train with Dereham Otters, Mia progressed steadily through the swimming stages, building her skills week by week.

Despite only turning seven at the end of November, she recently passed her Bronze Squad trial — an important milestone in her swimming journey.

“We’re proud to work alongside Dereham Otters to help swimmers prepare for squad swimming, and it’s great to see Mia take this first step into competitive swimming.” Angela commented.

Dereham Otters Head Coach Sam Watts said: “At Dereham Otters, we’re passionate about creating a supportive and encouraging environment where young swimmers can develop at their own pace. Moving into squad swimming is a big step, and our focus is always on nurturing confidence, strong technique and a love for the sport. We work closely with local swim schools to ensure children like Mia feel ready and excited to take that next step towards competition when the time is right.”

Mia’s experience reflects how regular lessons, supportive coaching and a positive club environment can help young swimmers develop both ability and confidence.

Dereham Otters welcomes new members, from those just starting out to those interested in developing their competitive swimming. The club offers structured coaching and a supportive team setting for children across the community.