Understanding EGA and Swimming South Africa: What swim parents need to know

What is EGA? 

EGA stands for Eastern Gauteng Aquatics. This is the official swimming region that TC Aquatics falls under. 

EGA manages: 

  • The gala calendar for our region
  • Swimmer registrations and licensing
  • Timekeeping, results, and swimmer progression
  • Coaching accreditation and club compliance

Basically, EGA is our governing body at a regional level — they help make sure that your child is part of a fair, structured and safe swim environment. 

What is Swimming South Africa? 

Swimming South Africa (SSA) is the national governing body for competitive swimming in South Africa. 

SSA oversees all the regional bodies (like EGA) and manages: 

  • National galas and qualifying meets
  • National records and rankings
  • Selection for provincial and national teams
  • High performance programmes
  • National coaching qualifications and rules

So when your child swims at TC, they’re stepping into a system that connects all the way from club level to national level. 

Why do I need to register my child? 

Once your swimmer starts competing at galas, they need to be registered with EGA and SSA for the season. 

This is like getting a license to compete, and it ensures: 

  • They can earn official times
  • Their results are recorded and tracked
  • They are covered by Swim SA’s insurance during official events
  • They are eligible for higher-level meets as they progress

How much does It cost? 

There is a once-a-season EGA registration fee that covers your swimmer’s annual license. 

  • The amount can vary slightly year to year (usually around R450–R650)
  • TC Aquatics will guide you on when registration opens and how to pay
  • No registration = no gala entries, so it’s an important step each year

When do I need to register? 

Registration for the season typically opens around April or May, covering the Swim South Africa calendar year from 1 May to 30 April. 

  • Your coach or team manager will remind you when it’s time to register
  • Once registered, your child is eligible for all official EGA and SSA-sanctioned galas for the season

How do I register? 

It’s easy! TC Aquatics will assist you every step of the way, but in general: 

  • You’ll receive a registration link or form via email/WhatsApp
  • You’ll complete your child’s details and make payment
  • We’ll submit everything to EGA and confirm your swimmer is active

Conclusion 

EGA and Swim South Africa might seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry, you’re not expected to figure it all out on your own. 

At TC Aquatics, we’re here to make the admin simple so your swimmer can focus on what matters: training, learning, and loving the sport. 

Got questions? Just ask. We’re here for every step of your swimmer's journey, from Learn to Swim, to Level 3, to Tomorrow’s Champion. 

"Joining a club like TC means your swimmer becomes part of something bigger; a pathway that leads from local galas to national dreams. We’re here to guide you every step of the way."