Few figures in Welsh sport embody dedication quite like Billy Pye. This year’s Swim Wales Annual Awards offered a moment that felt long overdue: a heartfelt celebration of a coach whose influence has shaped generations of swimmers and elevated para‑swimming in Wales to world‑class heights.
Bridgend County Swim Squad travelled to the Plymouth Life Centre for Round 2 of the Arena League, putting in a strong team performance against tough competition.
The swimmers got stuck in from the very first race. The younger members of the team produced some great 50m swims, with several achieving new personal best times. The older swimmers showed good control and technique in their 100m events, keeping the team competitive throughout.
The relays were a real highlight. BCSS swimmers worked well together, with quick takeovers and determined finishes that helped keep the team’s points ticking over. The support from teammates on poolside created a brilliant atmosphere, with everyone cheering each other on.
Coaches were pleased with the effort, attitude, and teamwork shown across all age groups. Parents and supporters who made the long trip to Plymouth also played their part, giving the swimmers plenty of encouragement from the stands.
With Round 2 complete, the squad now look ahead to the final round, feeling confident and ready to build on their performances.
Bridgend County Swim Squad kicked off their Arena League season with an exciting first round at the Newport International Sports Village on Saturday, 11th October 2025. The event brought together a range of clubs for a day of competitive swimming and team spirit.
Fourteen swimmers from Bridgend County Swim Squad recently travelled to Denmark to compete in the TrygFonden Copenhagen Swim — one of Europe’s biggest open water swimming events. The team included a mix of Masters swimmers and a few performance athletes, all keen to test themselves in a new and exciting environment.
The Maesteg swimming pool was buzzing with excitement as Ellie Simmonds, the Paralympic swimming legend, paid a special visit to her former coach, Billy Pye, and the Bridgend Swim Squad. The visit was a heartwarming reunion and an unforgettable experience for the young swimmers who had the chance to meet one of Britain’s most celebrated athletes.
The Bridgend County Swim Squad recently made a splash at the Arena Swimming League, an exciting event that gathers swim clubs from across the region. This competition is a fantastic opportunity for young swimmers to showcase their skills and experience the thrill of racing against some talented opponents.
Our senior and junior performance squads have just taken part in a warm weather training camp in a fantastic environment in Coral Beach, Coral Bay, Paphos, Cyprus.
Bridgend County Swim Squad attended the third round of the Arena League at Newport, with fantastic swimming all round we finished 3rd overall and promotion to the premiership!
Bridgend County Swim Squad attended the second round of the Arena League at Newport, with fantastic swimming all round we finished 2nd. Bring on Round 3!!!
Bridgend County Swim Squad attended the first round of the Arena League at Newport, with fantastic swimming all round we finished 2nd. Bring on Round 2!!!