What happens after my child turns 16?
Rule- South Africa
- Swimming South Africa
- Age group swimming
- 16&U
- World Aquatics rules
- 2025/26
- Parents
The oldest age group at Swimming South Africa (SSA) age group competitions is 16. After that:
- SA National Youth Championships are for swimmers aged 17 to 25 on the day of the competition. It is a club-based, three-day meet, and medals are awarded in three age groups: 17/18, 19/20 and 21-25.
- SA National Aquatic Championships (senior nationals) are open to swimmers who achieve the national qualifying times. Swimmers enter through their province, not their club. A Youth swimmer may swim both the Youth Championships and SA Nationals if they qualify for SA Nationals.
- Swimmers older than 25 who don't qualify for SA Nationals are encouraged to swim at the SA Masters Championships.
Added 21 Oct 2026