U.S. Paralympics Swimming is bringing back a new and improved Resident Team Program at the Colorado Springs Olympic and Paralympic Training Center (CSOPTC) in 2026. The relaunch of a Resident Team Program in Colorado Springs in 2026 will offer centralized, daily elite training and access to full performance support for rising emerging and national team athletes with a performance focus on the upcoming LA28 Paralympic Games. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, please read the resident program guide linked below.
Vision and Guiding Principles
To support sustained excellence at the international level, we must create a high-performance environment that is purpose-built for para swimming for those who are needing this environment for their personal performance goals. A centralized Resident Team Program addresses the unique challenges para swimmers face by offering daily access to specialized coaching, individualized training plans, and peer athletes who share similar goals and experiences. It fosters a culture of excellence, accountability, and camaraderie that is more difficult to replicate in decentralized settings. When athletes are surrounded by others striving for Paralympic and World Championship success, it creates a powerful training dynamic that elevates everyone. This environment also allows the resident team coach to implement more precise adaptations, monitor progress more effectively, and build continuity in athlete development.
Performance Progress
Athletes selected for the Resident Team Program will be expected to demonstrate a consistent trajectory toward becoming individual Paralympic medal contenders in 2028, supported by individualized plans developed in collaboration with the resident team coach and integrated service providers. To ensure accountability and optimize resource allocation, athlete progress will be reviewed on a quarterly basis. These reviews will assess training benchmarks, competition performance, technical development, and personal goal attainment. This process will help identify areas for adjustment while reinforcing a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Benefits
The benefits of the Resident Team Program at the OPTC are:
- Access to a centralized, high-performance training environment with specialized coaching, peer athletes, and integrated services.
- Direct communication and collaboration between athletes and performance staff for data-informed training and recovery decisions.
- Enhanced continuity and accountability across S&C, nutrition, and sport science services, supporting progression toward Paralympic and World Championship goals.
Resident Team Program Guide
Read the Guide, opens in a new tabFor a complete overview of the U.S. Paralympics Resident Team Program and athlete eligibility criteria, please read the guide linked below.
- Apply Online, opens in a new tab
Any athlete who wishes to participate must apply and be accepted into the Resident Team Program by filling out the resident team program application online. The application open and close dates will be posted on the U.S. Paralympics Swimming website and communicated to the program athletes once the program is set to begin accepting applications.
As part of the returning program, U.S. Paralympics Swimming is seeking to hire a qualified coach to this lead a group of elite athletes to podium success at LA28. This role is based in Colorado Springs at the OPTC. Interested coaches can view the position details and apply online.