Down Syndrome Swimming Federation
Totally Athlete Focused 
Affiliated to Swim England

Down Syndrome Swimming Federation

Affiliated to Swim England ( formerly Amateur Swimming Association).

In early 2009 it was recognised that there was a clear lack of fair and well organised competitive opportunities specifically for swimmers with Down Syndrome.

Having spoken to a number of national representatives from around the world we were encouraged to go ahead and create new and exciting opportunities for such swimmers.

From this came the event held in Southampton, UK in May 2009, with around 80 swimmers from 9 different countries – and was an instant success. We recognise that this was a major financial struggle, all of us involved have full-time jobs outside of our volunteer swimming activity, and we found it quite difficult getting any form of major donation or sponsorship, this situation continues, – but due to COVID we have had to put all our competitions on hold,  we are now looking to start again later this year in 2021 and definitely in 2022.

DSSF is recognised by Down Syndrome International and International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association as being the principal providers of quality swimming competition for swimmers with Down Syndrome, its views and aims are supported by Disability Sports Events (GB) and Special
Olympics and we are proud to declare that DSSF is now directly affiliated to Swim England the NGB for England, creating a clear link to FINA, the world governing body of swimming.

DSSF commits to providing quality, “no-frills” competition, where the whole value is invested in providing a first-class swimming competitive opportunity complete with national and international technical officials, FINA approved timing systems, and a world-class meet management team.

All we need to make each of our events a success is the willingness and enthusiasm of the swimmers, their families and supporters and the coaching teams.