Para Swimming
The Intro to Para Swimming program provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to learn and develop competitive swimming skills in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment—regardless of their starting skill level. Whether you’re new to swimming or looking to refine your technique, our program helps build confidence, strength, and ability in the water.
Para Swimming
Our Para Swim Program is designed to provide swimmers with physical, developmental, or sensory disabilities the opportunity to develop their swimming skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The program focuses on building confidence, improving technique, and fostering a lifelong enjoyment of swimming. Coaches tailor instruction and set goals to match the individual needs and abilities of each swimmer, ensuring an accessible and rewarding experience for all participants.
The program also serves as a pathway for those interested in progressing toward Para sport or competitive Para swimming opportunities within local clubs or provincial programs.
To join the program, swimmers should
- Feel comfortable in the water
- Be able to float independently on their front or back
- Have an interest in improving their swimming skills
In-water support is available to help participants gain comfort and confidence in the water.
The program is divided into two age-based groups to better serve individual needs:
| Groups | Age Range |
|---|---|
| Group #1 | 9 – 14 years old |
| Group #2 | 15+ years old |
The age overlap allows flexibility based on comfort and skill level. Coaches may move participants between groups after consulting with parents or guardians.
Dates & Times
Fall Term
- Each session is 45 mins – 8 sessions total
| Group | Day | Dates | Times |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group #1 | Saturday(s) | Sept 20 – Dec 6th | 11:50am – 12:35pm |
| Group #2 | Saturday(s) | Sept 20 – Dec 6th | 12:45pm – 1:30pm |
No Session
On October 11, October 18, November 1 & November 22
Winter Term
Winter 2026 Program Registration Opens
December 10th @ 9:00am
- Each session is 45 mins – 8 sessions total
| Group | Day | Dates | Times |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group #1 | Saturday(s) | Jan 10 – Mar 28 | 11:50am – 12:35pm |
| Group #2 | Saturday(s) | Jan 10 – Mar 28 | 12:45pm – 1:30pm |
No Session
On January 17, January 31, February 7, March 7 & March 21
Spring Term
There are currently no dates for this term yet
Please come back later!
Summer Term
There are currently no dates for this term yet
Please come back later!
Cost
- CU Students: Free
- Community Members: $100
Location
- Carleton Pool – Alumni Hall
Important Notes
- Parking is included. Parking codes will be provided in your confirmation email.
We offer one free trial session
For new participants, before committing you can arrange a trial session.
Contact the Aquatics Department at aquatics@cunet.carleton.ca
Program Support
This program was developed with the support of Swim Ontario’s Darda Sales, a three-time Paralympic swimmer, wheelchair basketball player, and dual sport World Champion. Darda is the co-founder of the Intro to Para Swimming program with the London Aquatic Club and currently serves as Ontario’s Provincial Para Swimming Development Consultant.
For inquiries related to para swimming development, Darda can be reached at:
paradevelopment@swimontario.com
The Para Swimming program is run in partnership with Swim Ontario and with ParaSport® Ontario supported by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
We are thankful to Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities for selecting Carleton University to receive a grant from their Sport Relief Fund. With Jumpstart’s support, we are able to provide equipment, quality coaching and subsidized registration fees for all participants who attend our Adaptive Sport programs.
Fall Registration Open Now
Other Para Programs
Para Personal Training
Ravens Multi Para Sport Camp
