Our first introductory ski paddling sessions have been a huge success!
As we begin to better understand demand for the upcoming coming season, we’ve developed a series of prerequisites to better guide and encourage participation – and like all of our surf sports, achieve a balanced approach in meeting various commitments and requirements including: current approved membership; general proficiency and safety; alignment with competition age groups; age specific lifesaving awards and activities; capacity of club equipment and coaching resources; willingness to commit to regular training; and volunteering undertaken by members in our other areas of the club.
Going forward we will be prioritising club skis for youth development – and looking to offer ski paddling to youth members on the following basis:
- Age groups U15 and above – noting competition opportunities begin for the u17 age group and above (in Single Ski & Ski Relay), with the Ski added to the Ironperson only from u19 and above. U14 age group may be considered depending on capacity.
- Active Membership and age specific Lifesaving Award – this means either having a current Bronze or SRC in place with a commitment to join the next available requalification, or a commitment to undertake the next available SRC / Bronze Medallion training group.
- Attendance at 2-3 introductory sessions – these are currently being held on weekends – generally Sunday mornings – and subject to confirmation on the Stack Teams App Youth Seniors Chat.
- Demonstrated proficiency on a board – this is a must to show that you’re ocean aware, ocean proficient, and able to handle the step up in ocean craft and conditions – learn to walk before you can run!
- Volunteering – on top of meeting your minimum patrol requirements, your willingness to get involved with other important areas of the club on a consistent basis will be considered, and these may include: Nippers water safety, youth coaching, youth officiating, youth age group assistants, youth trainer, youth lifesaving & leadership pathways, and general volunteering.
Please engage with coaches Jason and Nick about any aspect of the training program – start talking to us and show your interest either for this season or next. Things have a habit of changing throughout the course of a season, so please stay connected, and be ready to seize opportunities as they become available.
Jason 0422 925 350
Nick 0438 890 995 surfsports@albanysurfclub.com.au
