Club Purpose & Philosophy
Welcome to our “Base Clubs in the Spotlight” series, celebrating clubs that combine sporting excellence with community, personal growth, and lifelong memories.
Sherwood Colliery Swimming Club (SCSC) is a club with a proud history, a track record of producing champions, and a welcoming environment for swimmers of all abilities.
“Sherwood gave me the foundation, discipline, and confidence to achieve at the highest levels. It’s where champions start and where community matters.” Head Coach Ian Negus, who is been the head coach for 30 years.
At SCSC, the mission is simple: to provide a friendly, enjoyable, and supportive environment where every swimmer can fulfil their potential, guided by highly qualified coaches. Whether your goal is a personal best, competitive success, or simply a lifelong love of swimming, every member is encouraged to grow, learn, and thrive.
Training Across Nottinghamshire
SCSC prioritizes accessibility and high-quality facilities. Most sessions take place at the Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre. Where we focus on improving your technique providing your swimmer with an incredible work ethic on the platform to take them to the next level of swimming on the county swim squad.
Weekly Training Schedule:
- Tuesday: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
The club caters to swimmers of all ages—from young beginners to Masters—with tailored programs led by:
- 2 Level 3 coaches
- 6 Level 2 coaches
- A team of Level 1 coaches and teachers
Every swimmer is supported to reach their personal goals, whatever their ability.
A Legendary History
Founded on October 6th, 1934, by Sherwood Colliery miners, SCSC has grown into one of Nottinghamshire’s most respected swimming clubs. In 2010, the facility was refurbished and renamed the Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre, honouring the club’s most famous alumna.
Rebecca Adlington began her journey at SCSC, coached by Ian Negus. After five formative years at Sherwood, she progressed to the elite Nova Centurion County Swim Squad, achieving world-record performances and Olympic glory: 2 gold medals in Beijing 2008 and 2 bronze medals in London 2012.
Today, SCSC serves as the Mansfield base for the Nova Centurion County Swim Squad, providing a direct pathway from local club training to regional and national-level competition. Ian Negus leads this program, ensuring Sherwood swimmers have unrivalled access to elite development opportunities.
Other notable SCSC alumni include:
- Elliot Clogg – Commonwealth Games silver & bronze medallist
- Lily Bosley – Commonwealth Youth Games gold & silver medallist
- Numerous national champions and finalists
Personal Development in Action
At Sherwood, swimming goes beyond competition, it’s about confidence, leadership, and life skills. Swimmers of all ages:
- Develop resilience, teamwork, and discipline
- Mentor younger swimmers and lead sessions
- Participate in initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh Award
Former members often describe SCSC as transformative, giving them confidence, adaptability, and lifelong friendships. Every swimmer is nurtured as a person as well as an athlete, with lessons learned in the pool carrying far beyond swimming.
Club Culture & Community
With a membership of 150–170 swimmers, SCSC balances high-performance training via the Nova Centurion County Squad pathway with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The club thrives on:
- Intergenerational connections: children of former swimmers continue the legacy
- Volunteerism and mentorship: supporting coaches, officials, and young swimmers
- Community engagement: charity drives, volunteering, and support for academic/professional development
SCSC fosters a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community, where every swimmer feels valued.
Supporting Coaches, Volunteers & Staff
The club invests heavily in coaches, officials, and volunteers:
- Aspiring coaches receive mentorship and funded certification
- Officials gain qualifications to ensure smooth gala operations
- The program guarantees continuity, quality, and excellence across all activities
More Than Just a Swim Club
Sherwood Colliery SC is a cornerstone of Nottinghamshire swimming. From nurturing Olympic champions through the Nova Centurion County Swim Squad pathway to developing confidence in young swimmers, SCSC blends competitive success with personal growth, volunteerism, and community engagement.
Here, every stroke counts, not just in the pool, but in life.
Joining Sherwood Colliery Swimming Club
New swimmers are welcome year-round. SCSC offers a free trial program so families can experience the club before committing:
Contact enquiries@sherwoodswimmingclub.com to arrange a trial and 3 free trial sessions before committing to membership after assessment to decide if SCSC is right for you.
