Hurst Triumphs in First Gala at New Swimming Pool

Published by Hurstpierpoint College Prep School on Friday 3rd of October 2025

Our talented swimmers celebrated a historic first victory in the College’s new state-of-the-art swimming pool during the opening round of the Schools Swimming Super League.

The Super League, launched in September 2023 by Hurst coaches Stephen Murphy, Anthony Gray, and Rob Kift (Director of Sporting Partnerships), was created to provide regular, high-quality school team competitions across the South East. It brings together both experienced club swimmers and those new to competitive swimming, giving all pupils the chance to represent their school in a meaningful team setting.

The first gala of the term took place in our brand-new facility: a six-lane, deck-level 25-metre competition pool equipped with electronic timing, wedge starting blocks, anti-turbulence lane ropes, and a viewing area for up to 50 spectators. The pool also features modern changing areas, toilets, and lockers, making it ideal for hosting large-scale meets.

Hurst’s swimmers delivered outstanding performances across the board, claiming first place, and setting a strong tone for the rest of the league. With three more galas scheduled before the final, the team is already looking ahead to round two with confidence.

Head of College, Dominic Mott, shared: “I am absolutely thrilled to see so many Hurst pupils making the most of our fabulous new swimming pool. We are so fortunate to have the finest school pool in Sussex, and the excitement on the children’s faces is proof of how inspirational such facilities can be. Every child in the Junior Prep School and Senior Prep School has already had the chance to swim, and we have organised a full and varied programme of events and activities to allow every pupil in the Senior School full access to the pool as part of a new and ambitious vision for swimming at Hurst. From the children in Reception who are learning to swim as an essential life skill, to the sports scholars who can use the pool as part of their strength and conditioning programme, right the way up to our elite athletes who can now partner with Mid-Sussex Marlins as part of our performance pathway, our goal is to put Hurst firmly on the map as the top swimming school in the South East”.

Starting this term, the pool will also host a Boys’ Swim Series, a Girls’ Swim Series, and a Development Swim Series, offering even more pupils the chance to dive into competitive swimming.

The future of Swimming at Hurst looks brighter than ever.