Nippers Information Booklet Season 2012-2013
PO Box 193, Torquay VIC 3228 Ph: 03 5261 4110 Email:
[email protected] Website: www.torquayslsc.com.au
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Contents Contents ............................................................................................................................................................... 2 Welcome to Season 2012-2013............................................................................................................................ 3 Nippers ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Objective of nippers ......................................................................................................................................... 4 Who Can Join? .................................................................................................................................................. 4 How To Join? .................................................................................................................................................... 4 Membership Costs ............................................................................................................................................ 4 How do we deliver our program ...................................................................................................................... 5 Who does what? ............................................................................................................................................... 5 Age Managers ................................................................................................................................................... 6 Age Groups ........................................................................................................................................................... 6 Age Group Clarification .................................................................................................................................... 7 Codes of Conduct ................................................................................................................................................. 8 Summer Holiday Program .................................................................................................................................... 9 Before nippers can start ................................................................................................................................. 10 Signing In and Out .......................................................................................................................................... 10 Apparel ........................................................................................................................................................... 10 What can parents to help with the running of this program? ....................................................................... 11 What are some of the nipper activities they do? ........................................................................................... 12 Use of Craft - Boards Do’s and Don’ts ............................................................................................................ 13 Surf Safety Tips ............................................................................................................................................... 13 How to identify a Rip ...................................................................................................................................... 14 What to do in a rip or if caught in a rip .......................................................................................................... 14 Club Championships ........................................................................................................................................... 14 Competition and Skills Development Training Program .................................................................................... 15 Carnivals ............................................................................................................................................................. 16 Parental Involvement ......................................................................................................................................... 19 Officials ........................................................................................................................................................... 19 Water Safety ................................................................................................................................................... 19 Coaches........................................................................................................................................................... 19 Beach Setup Task Force .................................................................................................................................. 19 After Juniors ....................................................................................................................................................... 20 Use of Club Facilities ........................................................................................................................................... 21 2012-2013 Junior Members Calendar ................................................................................................................ 22 For the new parent on the beach ....................................................................................................................... 23 Appendix 1 - Skills Evaluations and Awards Matrix ............................................................................................ 25 Appendix 2 – Key Contacts ................................................................................................................................. 26
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Welcome to Season 2012-2013 Hello All, Welcome to the 2012 - 2013 Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club Nippers program. Torquay SLSC is proud of its history and achievements. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to joining this tradition and enjoying the journey as we build on the momentum of the past. Torquay SLSC is run by volunteers and with club membership growing the need for active involvement by all members (families) is now even more critical to ensure continued success of the club’s programs and services. Our club programs wouldn’t happen without the generous support of our volunteer members. We encourage all members (families) to register their membership as an active membership category if participating in any of the club’s programs. There are various ways members can assist at the club and fulfil their active membership. Being actively involved is rewarding and an opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge. Our junior program here in Torquay is structured in accordance with Life Saving Victoria (LSV) and Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) guidelines and a fantastic safe environment for introducing new comers to the Life Saving movement. This year will be an even bigger year for our Club following on our success as Victorian State Junior Champions at last season’s State Titles. We look forward to making your time a fun-filled experience with Torquay SLSC and one that hopefully will be just the beginning of a long relationship with the club.
Best wishes,
Chris Burgess Director of Development
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Nippers The Surf Life Saving Junior Activities Program (or “Nippers”) has become one of the most successful children’s development and sporting program in Australia. It encourages children to learn new skills and promotes active involvement of parents, creating a learning environment from which both children and parent can both benefit from, which may someday save someone’s life. This information booklet is designed as a general guide to the Torquay Nipper program we will be conducting this season.
Objective of nippers Torquay SLSC shares the SLSA objectives in relation to Junior Development:
To provide the best possible lifesaving experience for all juniors with the view to encouraging longterm active participation.
To provide opportunities for juniors to participate in and enjoy lifesaving and competition in an aquatic environment by offering a wide variety of activities suited to the skill and maturation levels of all juniors.
To ensure the juniors are safe on Australia’s beaches through the provision of surf safety education programs.
To develop a team based philosophy encompassing leadership, camaraderie, teamwork, and fun. To promote social, emotional and physical growth and development in a healthy and safe environment.
Who Can Join? Nipper Membership is limited to children aged 5 to 13 (Under 7-14). The other pre-requisite is that at least one parent joins the Club and is encouraged to join one of the volunteer groups (officials, water safety or a member of the taskforce) to contribute to the running of club days and carnivals.
How To Join? Memberships involve completing the membership application forms and declarations for all members of the joining family. Acceptance of membership is at the discretion of the club and not automatic on payment of membership fees. Membership application forms can be found on the club’s website at www.torquayslsc.com.au.
Membership Costs Family membership is $230 per family and can include up to 2 adults and children under the age of 18. No Junior Active Members (5-13 years) may join as a member without an accompanying parent or guardian. It is also a Club requirement that memberships for those between 14 and 30 years that the member be an ACTIVE member and bronze medallion holder who participates in patrols. Courses are provided to assist members attain this accreditation. Members who are over the age of 30 may be admitted to the Club as Associate members with full social rights. These members are also encouraged, where possible, to participate in volunteer activities at the club if they are unable to obtain their bronze medallion. Membership renewal fees are due and payable annually by the 1st May. Renewals forms will be sent electronically for all members who provide email addresses. Members will be notified in advance of any changes in fees. Memberships can also be renewed online via www.lifesavingonline.com.au
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How do we deliver our program Delivery is via two main streams: 1. Summer Holiday Program which focuses on the delivery of our Surf Education Program 2. Competition and Skills Development Training Sessions The Summer Holiday Program usually over eight sessions held between Christmas and the middle of January – session times are in the calendar at the end of this booklet. All junior members are expected to participate in the Summer Holiday Program as this is where the surf education program is delivered. The program's primary focus is on:
Learning new skills and having fun
Basic First Aid
Awareness of beach hazards. (Rips, Waves, Reefs, Beach Environment etc)
An introduction to surf sport beach and aquatic activities such as board paddling, ocean swimming, wading, beach flags and beach sprinting.
Each age group has certain skills they need to learn and upon the successful completion of these skills your child will be awarded the relevant age group certificate. The certificates will be given to participating nippers at the presentation evening which will be held at the Surf Club at the end of January. Competition and skills development training sessions are designed to develop surf sports skills and competencies associated with surf sports competition. These training sessions run most weekends but are suspended whilst the Summer Holiday Program is conducted. The Competition Training Program is tailored to nippers beginning from Under 9 levels and provides an opportunity for nippers to train and compete in various Nipper Competition Carnivals sanctioned by Lifesaving Victoria. Two training squads operate within the Competition and Skills Development Training Program format:
Torquay Blue is provided for inexperienced Nippers whose aquatic skills are developing and need further exposure / experience within the competition environment. This training focuses on development of skill.
Torquay Gold is provided for experienced Nippers who have progressed beyond skill development. The training is biased towards fitness and focuses on Nippers improving their competitive endurance.
Who does what? It takes a significant number of volunteers to run our junior program. The program is offered under the guidance of the Director of Development and has a nipper sub-committee with designated roles and responsibilities (see chart overleaf). In addition to these roles, we also need at least 5 qualified water safety officers to supervise nippers in the water as well as members to act as officials at carnivals, to co-ordinate and run bbq’s and fundraising activities, assisting with administration. THERE ARE ROLES FOR EVERYONE.
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CLUB EXECUTIVE and BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Director of Junior Development
Junior Competition Manager
Gear Steward (Nippers)
U7
Junior Carnival Registrar
U8
Coaching Co-Ordinator
U9
Program Co-Ordinator
Water Safety Manager
Nipper Transition Manager
U11
U12
U13
U10
Specialists Coach*
U14
U7 U7 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U8 U8 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U9 U9 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U10 U10 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U11 U11 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U12 U12 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U13 U13 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U14 U14 Girls Girls Age Age Manager Manager
U7 U7 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U8 U8 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U9 U9 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U10 U10 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U11 U11 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U12 U12 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U13 U13 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U14 U14 Girls Girls Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U7 U7 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U8 U8 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U10 U10 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U11 U11 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U12 U12 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U13 U13 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U14 U14 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager
U7 U7 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U8 U8 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U10 U10 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U11 U11 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U12 U12 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U13 U13 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U14 U14 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
U9 U9 Boys Boys Age Age Manager Manager U9 U9 Boys Boys Assist. Assist. Age Age Mgr Mgr
Specialist Coach responsible for Belt & Reel, R&R and March Past Teams and Training
A list of contacts for each of these roles can be found at Appendix 2.
Age Managers Age managers have one of the most important roles in surf lifesaving. They are responsible for caring for and nurturing the future Australian surf lifesavers. Their role is to both help develop our young people into the lifesavers of the future and to provide that supportive environment in which they can learn and develop. An age manager is responsible for: • the care, safety, well-being and development of the junior surf lifesaver, • facilitating the development of surf lifesaving skills (movement skills, surf awareness, etc.) and personal skills (e.g. confidence, teamwork, leadership, etc), • delivery of a learning program that encourages and develops young surf lifesavers, and • seeking out and utilising expertise from within the club where they do not themselves have the relevant skill(s). Each age group has an Age Manager with one or two assistants. The Age Manager is responsible for the education, training and organisation of the group. Our Age Managers are all volunteers, as are all others involved in the Junior Development program. They volunteer their time to coordinate and implement the program and are passionate about providing an environment where children can have fun, learn and develop their knowledge of Surf Life Saving.
Age Groups Torquay SLSC runs a nipper program for each of the U7 to U14 Age Groups. It is a pre-requisite for nippers in the Under 7 to Under 14 to have an ability to swim, therefore, they must complete a swim proficiency prior to joining. These age groups are designed to give children, and also parents, a firm understanding of beach rescues, resuscitation, carnival events along with preparation for senior level membership. The Summer Holiday and Competition Training programs are not "Learn to Swim" activities. We strongly recommend that you enroll your child into swimming lessons. Please advise your child's Age Manager if your child is not a competent swimmer. To ensure your child's safety, there are strict minimum requirements for both programs that nippers must be able to complete prior to participating in aquatic activities. 6|Page
Age Group Clarification Age for a season is determined as at 30th September at the commencement of that season. (Please note that proof of age/Birth certificates will be requested for all new children joining at time of registration). Children MUST be 5 years of age to be registered and permitted to participate in any LSV activities. A child’s age group for the season is their age as at midnight 30th September. This is also their competitive age if participating at interclub carnivals and junior state championships. Age Group
Age Group Colours
U7 U8 U9 U10 U11 U12 U13 U14
Pale Blue Red Purple Yellow White Navy Blue Green Black
Birthday 5 or 6 as at midnight 30th September 7 as at midnight 30th September 8 as at midnight 30th September 9 as at midnight 30th September 10 as at midnight 30th September 11 as at midnight 30th September 12 as at midnight 30th September 13 as at midnight 30th September
For example, John turned 9 on the 28th August this year – John is therefore registered as an Under 10. Emma turned 9 on the 2nd October this year – Emma is therefore registered as an Under 9. A child who turns 5 after midnight 30th September may participate in the Under 7 age group but only after they have had their 5th birthday and these children will remain in the Under 7’s next season also. Different colours are assigned to each age group to help distinguish between age groups and to assist with marshalling during rotations. Each nipper will be expected to wear a nipper hat which corresponds to the colour of their age group. These caps are to be returned to the Age Manager at the completion of each session.
Under 7 The key focus for five and six year old Junior Activity Members will be play participation and fun. Guidelines which support this focus will include: a) beach activities that emphasise games and group activities, b) water activities to be limited to shallow water near the water’s edge and no competition for these age groups other than that involved in fun games c) no competition for these age groups other than that involved in fun games. Greater parental involvement and duty of care will be expected from families with children in this age group. Session times may be shortened for this age group given the attention span and concentration levels of Under 7 members. Please note that TSLC is not bound to provide junior activities for 5 and 6 year olds.
Under 14 (Cadets) A modified focus was required given changes over the past number of seasons where the Surf Rescue Certificate is now a prerequisite for U/14 competitors to complete this within the Nipper program. Prior to these changes, Cadets or U/15’s awaiting the age qualifications needed participate in the Bronze Camp to complete their Surf Rescue Certificate.
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Codes of Conduct TSLSC recognises that every person involved in surf lifesaving needs to be treated with respect and dignity, in a safe and supportive environment. In order to protect youth members, TSLSC at all levels aims to ensure:
that safeguards comply with legal and educational requirements relating to the physical and psychological welfare of young people, that the club meets their duty of care to participants, that young people are treated fairly in all aspects of surf lifesaving, and that all young surf lifesavers experience a safe and nurturing environment.
It is the responsibility of all involved in delivering youth programs to ensure that they comply with the requirements of this policy.
The Role of Parents and Carers The role of parents is critical to the young person’s wellbeing and ongoing involvement. Supportive parents provide essential care, education and enthusiasm. A challenge for parents is getting the right balance between disinterest and overbearing involvement, and being able to read their child’s changing support needs. Age managers are encouraged to provide a full briefing to parents during the season outlining the age managers’ expectations in relation to supporting the children and assisting with activities.
Parents/Guardians Code of Conduct At TSLSC, we pride ourselves on having a fair and competitive spirit in an environment of positive encouragement and inclusion. Our foremost priority is to teach children the skills of Surf Lifesaving. Through our Junior Development Program we endeavour to engender in our nippers a sense of belonging and worth. We stress that parents should also adopt this attitude and be supportive of their Nippers.
Do not make an unwilling child participate in the activity Children should be involved in surf lifesaving for their enjoyment, not yours Encourage children to play by the rules Encourage the effort as being as important as the result – focus on the child’s efforts and performance rather than winning and losing Work towards improving skills and sportsmanship – show appreciation for good performances by all participants Do not yell at or abuse a child for making a mistake Recognise and encourage good play or efforts Do not publicly question an official’s decision - Respect official’s decisions and teach children to do likewise. If you disagree with an official, coach, age manager; raise the issue through the appropriate channels (Peer Support Officer, Director of Junior Development, etc) rather than questioning in public. Do not physically or verbally abuse or harass anyone associated with the activities (e.g. coach, official, age manager, etc.) Recognise the efforts of volunteers - Be mindful that all officials, coaches and age managers freely volunteer their time and effort for all children's participation and development. Be a positive role model for others
We encourage Parents and Guardians to assist their Nippers in setting achievable goals. If their Nipper is feeling any apprehension or has any concerns, please talk to your Age Manager or the Director of Development for guidance.
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Nipper Code of Conduct
Participate within the spirit of the rules as stipulated by Surf Lifesaving and the Torquay Lifesaving Club. Never argue or show disrespect to an official, coach or age manager or fellow nipper participant. Always be courteous with your coach, age manager, officials, team mates and opponents. Be mindful without them there would be no nippers or competition Control your temper and refrain from deliberately provoking or distracting a participant or competitor. Always remember Nippers is a team sport. Try equally hard for yourself and your team. Be a good sport. Congratulate all good performances whether they are from Torquay SLSC or other clubs. Participate for your own enjoyment, satisfaction and development. Respect the equipment that you use. Wash it and return it after use. Report any damage. Respect the clubhouse. Treat it as you would treat your home. Leave it neat and tidy.
Summer Holiday Program Our Summer Holiday Nipper program caters for children 5 to 13 and provides a great opportunity for them to gain surf safety information and skills. Torquay provides a fun filled intensive program over the summer school holidays, which has a total family approach. Many families make lifelong friends from their involvement in Nippers and enjoy the social activities provided. There is also a competition focus for those interested in training. Torquay SLSC is very proud of our Nipper Program and our achievements in State Competition. Check the Club website under Nippers for the current syllabus and program for the year. A copy of this year’s calendar is attached but may be subject to change. Through the Summer Holiday Program, Torquay SLSC aims to deliver a National program that is structured specifically to children between the ages of 5 and 13. This program teaches children basic lifesaving skills required to be safe around an aquatic environment as well as developing their skills to compete in surf sports. The Program includes lessons that are tailored to each of the junior member age groups. The program is based on participatory evaluation and not assessed on competence. At the end of this program nippers will be awarded with the relevant Surf Education Award. During this Summer Holiday Program, participants will be broken into age groups based on age and will be assigned Age Manager(s) who will be responsible for the delivery of the relevant award program. One of the main aims of nippers is to teach its members surf safety, surf awareness and lifesaving development. The following awards have been developed for each age group. To be eligible to compete at carnivals, nippers must obtain these awards. Age Group
Award
Summary
Under 7
Surf Play 2
Under 8
Surf Aware 1
Under 9
Surf Aware 2
The focus is on play, participation and fun. Activities and games will the majority of the sessions with a number of simple beach safety and awareness lessons. · Beach activities to emphasise games and group participation · Water activities that are limited to shallow water near the water’s edge · Limited competition other than that involved in fun games The focus is on understanding, identifying and demonstrating sunsmart guidelines and dangers that relate to themselves, as well as what it means to feel safe. Participants learn to recognise whether they are, or someone else, is in an emergency situation and how to get help. Personal Safety Networks are introduced so participants are comfortable asking for help; Ecosurf discusses the impact surf lifesavers can have on the beach. Introduction of safety tips and the ability to identify hazardous surf conditions.
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Under 10
Surf Safe 1
Under 11
Surf Safe 2
Under 12
Surf Smart 1
Under 13
Surf Smart 2
Under 14
Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC)
Ecosurf focuses on water conservation and discusses the consequences of skin damage. Participants learn about rips, recognising unsafe behaviours and relating these areas to preventative actions. Resuscitation is introduced for the first time with an opportunity to experience CPR on a manikin. Rescue techniques are also introduced for the first time as participants learn to use body boards to assist distressed swimmers and experience rescue tubes. There is a strong focus on recognising ‘at risk’ people, and managing patients suffering from a range of basic first aid cases. Participants can learn how to perform CPR and there is an opportunity to work towards a Resuscitation Certificate. There is also a strong section on communication through beach signage. Participants begin to learn about their rights and responsibilities as a member of SLS. The Ecosurf lesson looks at how weather impacts on the beach environment. Personal health & wellbeing and sun safety – skin cancer is a focus. Participants can work towards a Basic Emergency Care Certificate (as well as a Resuscitation Certificate). Surf Smart 2 looks to wrap up the skills and knowledge learnt in all the previous awards. Participants learn about what the SLS Member Safety and Wellbeing Policy is, and in Ecosurf they tackle the issues of Global Warming and Climate Change and its impact on surf lifesaving. Communication focuses on the importance of communicating with beach users. Participants can work towards a Basic Emergency Care Certificate (as well as a Resuscitation Certificate). · Apply surf awareness information · Provide emergency care · Operate communications systems & equipment · Work in a team · Communicate in the beach environment · Has completed run-swim-run · Participate in an aquatic rescue operation · Demonstrates resuscitation skills This SRC award is compulsory if members wish to compete at this age and beyond the Senior Club and to fulfil their patrol obligations.
Before nippers can start Before any nipper may participate in any water based activities they must undertake a Preliminary Skills Evaluation. This evaluation is to ensure that each child demonstrates a standard of competence to enable preliminary levels of survival skills in an aquatic environment to be achieved. Preliminary assessments should be completed on or before their first day of the Summer Holiday Program. Any child that does not meet the required evaluation, will remain in shallow water and must be supervised by water safety based on a 1:1 ratio until the child is deemed competent in relation to the preliminary skills evaluation. Any child that does complete the preliminary skills evaluation competently can progress to water based junior activities and be supervised by water safety at a ratio of 1:5.
Signing In and Out All children must be signed in and out of any Club sessions by a responsible parent or guardian. This parent/guardian is required to be on hand for the duration of all sessions in the case of medical or other emergencies or to assist with the need to attend the toilet or change of clothing etc. Age Managers will have an attendance sheet for this purpose. If your child is not on the attendance sheet you will need to check with the office to ensure your child is properly registered. Children are not to leave the Clubhouse or its surrounds until collected by the adult responsible for them. Colour coded caps will be issued to nippers at signing in and must be returned to the age manager when signing out.
Apparel Torquay SLSC has a variety of swim-wear and general club wear which may be purchased from the uniform shop. 10 | P a g e
In order to make nippers readily identifiable on land but more importantly in the water, the club will be introducing new fluoro pink rashies this season. This colour has been chosen by Surf Life Saving Australia as the one most highly visible underwater and is being introduced as a safety measure. The one colour will apply regardless of gender. These rashies will be required to worn in any club activities where children are involved in any aquatic activity. The introduction of these fluoro pink rashies is being mandated at State and National level. Whilst the club will be seeking financial support for the purchase of this stock there will be a cost to families to acquire this compulsory item for all children who enter the water. The cost of this item of apparel will be advised as soon as our procurement and sponsorship arrangements can be finalised. Parents are strongly urged to label all items of club apparel. To compete at carnivals it is compulsory for competitors to wear the club cap and the fluoro pink rashie or vest (for water based events). The wearing of other club uniform items such as club bathers is preferable. Torquay advocates the Sun Smart Policy and all children will be expected to have:
Broad Brimmed hat
Sun screen protection
Mandated fluoro pink rashie or shirt to cover shoulders
During training and the Summer Holiday Program, the Club will provide colour-coded age level caps are required to be worn at all sessions to assist with identification of those involved in the program.
What can parents to help with the running of this program? All the people who make nippers happen each year are volunteers and in most cases interested parents. There are many jobs to be done to make nippers successful but here are few to get you thinking: For Your Child
For your age group manager
At nipper sessions
Surf Sport
For the Club
Be around for support Offer encouraging words Be available with to help with trips to the toilet, getting wetsuits on and off, towels, sunscreen, hat & goggles etc Help them out with setting up an activity if they need it – eg setting up flags, organising nippers into groups, recording results Let them know if they are doing a good job If your child is disrupting the group please step in and assist the age group manager/coach where required Tell them about any fears or special needs your child may have Help take boards, cones, hoses etc down to the beach and back up to the club Help in the kitchen or barbeque with food preparation, cooking or sales Help in the uniform shop or kiosk Be the first aid person at a session Put your wetsuit on and help in the shallows Get your Bronze and help with water safety Help the coach with any activities Provide some coaching* at regular sessions Assist at carnivals by helping to look after an age group Assist with carnival registrations and enquiries Become an official Help out at fundraising activities such as door knocks, Jim Wall, Haviiana Day, etc Join the Associates or Committee Provide sponsorship from your company Help organise a social activity for the nippers - it really helps them make friends on and off the beach!
* Regular Coaches are expected to have a level 1 coaches Certificate but assistance can always be useful
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What are some of the nipper activities they do? Some events are restricted to age groups based on recommended safety guidelines as advised by LSV and SLSA. Typically, U7 and U8 will have limited or restricted water based activities. Event
Age Groups
Description
Beach Flags
U7 to U14
Nippers lie down in the sand, facing away from the flags. At the signal they get to their feet, turn and sprint to a flag (piece of hose) placed in the sand. There are always less flags than participants. Anyone who fails to gain a flag is eliminated until there are only two nippers left. The nipper, who wins the last flag, wins.
Beach Sprint
U7 to U14
The beach sprint course is usually set over 70m. Starting when the whistle is sounded the nipper sprints across the soft sand through the finish line. The first nippers’ chest across the finish line is deemed the winner.
Beach Relay
U7 to U14
The beach relay consists of a team of four nippers and a baton (rubber hose). Members 1 and 3 are stationed at one end of the course whilst members 2 and 4 are at the other. The object is to successfully complete the race without dropping the baton and exchanging within the set boundaries. The first across the line wins.
Wade Race
U7 to U10
Athletes have to wade, dive or swim their way through waist depth water around the three Water Safety Markers from left to right, and then make their way back up the beach through the finish line.
Wade Relay
U7 to U10
This relay race consists of 4 nippers. The first member runs and wades around the water safety markers, back to the beach where they tag the second member who does the same. They tag the third and finally fourth and final member who runs through the finish line
Board Race
U9 to U14
This race is done using a board to negotiate the break, follow a set course of buoys and return to shore surfing the waves back to the beach. Board requirements for the U9-10s are on 2m long foam boards; U11-13s are 2m long fibreglass boards and U14s use a Malibu fibreglass board, 3.2m in length
Board Relay
U9 to U14
A board relay team consists of three nippers all with their own board. The first team member paddles out around the buoys then heads back towards the shore and tags with the second team member who does the same. The final team member has to complete the same course and then run through the finish line. The first team to successfully pass all the buoys and cross the finish line will be declared the winner.
Board Rescue
U11 to U14
Consisting of 2 nippers, a swimmer and a board paddler. The swimmer enters the water, swims to their coloured buoy and signals to the board paddler, who paddles out, around the buoy, picks up the swimmer and both competitors paddle to the beach, both carrying the board over the line.
Surf Race
U9 to U14
Involves swimming around a course of buoys placed out in the ocean. Getting through the shore break can be tough, as well as the return to the beach negotiating the waves, but then to be a lifesaver you must be tough. The distances for the U9-U10 are approx. 200m and 300m for the U11-U14.
Surf Teams
U9 to U14
Consisting of four members, all nippers swim in the same race, around the buoys and back to the beach. Each placing is given a certain amount of points e.g. First = 1 point, tenth = 10 points. The team with the least amount of points win or in the case of a draw, the team who crossed the line first, wins.
Ironman /
U9 to U14
In the nipper age groups the ironman/ironwoman race involves three legs 12 | P a g e
Ironwoman
including the board and the swim sections with a run in between each of these. This is a tough event which requires endurance, strength and plenty of skills.
Cameron Relay
U11 to U14
Involves 4 members, a swimmer, a board paddler and 2 runners. The swimmer completes a swim race, and tags the runner near the shore who runs along the beach and tags the board paddler who completes a board race before tagging the last runner who sprints towards the finish line.
R&R
Combined U11 to U14
2 and 5 person R & & teams compete in a precise drill that simulates rescue and resuscitation. Points are given for incorrect procedures. The team with the least amount of points wins.
March Past
Combined U7 to U14
Teams of 12 are judged on their ability to march correctly to a predetermined drill around the carnival arena. Points are given for incorrect procedures. The team with the least amount of points wins.
Team events are single sex (all male or all female) with the exception of the March Past.
Use of Craft - Boards Do’s and Don’ts Club craft such as boards are provided for the use of members during the Summer Holiday Program and for club sanctioned training. Members are expected to treat this equipment with the appropriate level of respect to ensure that it remains in a condition suitable for ongoing instruction.
Surf Safety Tips “Never swim at a beach that isn’t patrolled by surf life savers. Never swim alone.” 1. Swim between the red and yellow flags; 2. Always swim at a beach patrolled by surf life savers; 3. Read and obey all warning signs; 4. If you are unsure of the conditions ask someone on the beach for advice. If you are still unsure, don’t go in the water; 5. Never swim alone; 6. If you get into difficulty, stay calm, float and raise one arm until help arrives; 13 | P a g e
7. Never run and dive into the water, even if you check conditions earlier. Wave and tide conditions can change quickly; 8. Use 30+ sunscreen, wear a long-sleeve shirt and a broad brimmed hat; 9. Learn how to spot a rip and keep clear of it; and 10. Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
How to identify a Rip
Discoloured water due to sand being stirred off the bottom
Deeper water close into shore where waves to not tend to break
Foam on the surface extending beyond the break
Waves breaking further out on both sides of the rip
Debris floating seawards
A rippled appearance, where the surrounding water is generally calm
What to do in a rip or if caught in a rip
Relax
Don’t panic. Stay calm, breathe in a regular and controlled manner, even if you are exhausted or suffering from the cramp. If you are tired or not an experienced swimmer, try to float out with the current
Float on your back and raise one arm to signal for help. Waving both arms makes it difficult to keep your head above the water
Float and wait for a lifesaver to rescue you. If not a patrolled beach, swim parallel with the shore towards the breaking waves and use the wave to assist you in getting to shore.
Club Championships The Club Championships are conducted in a similar fashion to inter-club carnivals with the exception that they are only open to members of the club. The Championships are usually held at the end of the Summer Holiday Program and are followed by an awards presentation and end of Program celebration at the clubhouse – an event many families look forward to. Events are run according to Age group and participants must compete in their relevant Age Group as applicable during the Summer Holiday Program. Points are awarded for both placing and for participation and the overall winners in each age group are determined based on the total number of points awarded. Age manager encouragement awards are also presented at the Club Championship Presentation Evening.
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Competition and Skills Development Training Program Competition is quite possibly the most successful recruiting tool for the Surf Life Saving Movement. The Surf Sports program offers a wide range of competition events for all ages culminating in the Junior State Championship each year. Competition is offered that incorporates fun and teamwork. Events for Nippers involve swimming, board paddling, wading, running, beach flags, iron nipper and relays. Participation is optional and at your own expense. As mentioned previously, two training squads operate within the Competition and Skills Development Training Program format:
Torquay Blue is provided for inexperienced Nippers whose aquatic skills are developing and need further exposure / experience within the competition environment. This training focuses on development of skill.
Torquay Gold is provided for experienced Nippers who have progressed beyond skill development. The training is biased towards fitness and focuses on Nippers improving their competitive endurance.
This program is designed to develop those surf sports skills and competencies associated with surf sports competition. These training sessions run most weekends but are suspended whilst the Summer Holiday Program is conducted.
When does this program run? The program is eight months in duration beginning in mid August 2012 and culminating with the Victorian Junior Lifesaving Championships usually held in early March. Coaches work with nippers and train participants, focusing on specific skills and fitness. The program is designed to extend the development of skills and fitness. Training Sessions are provided:
Each Sunday from mid August
Each Wednesday and Sunday from December
Each Sunday, Wednesday and Friday from the end of Summer Holiday Program
Saturday morning open water swim and Iron training sessions offered from December for suitably qualified squad level swimmers. To ensure training sessions run fluently and to meet our duty of care, there is a requirement for parents to assist with water safety. This assistance significantly increases the quality of delivery of the overall training program. If there are insufficient water safety personnel to run these training sessions, numbers participating will have to be restricted. Parental involvement in this program is critical. Competition training program members need to be ready for a variety of training opportunities. Coaches ask that each session Nippers bring along:
Runners, Shorts, T Shirt and Water Bottle Bathers, Towel, Goggles, Fluoro Pink Rash Vest, Club Competition Cap, Wet Suit and Sunscreen Nipper Board (If your child requires a club board, see Gear Steward for details)
Who can join the training program? Nippers are welcome to join the Competition Training Program if they have acquired their age group Competition Swimming Proficiency Evaluation (S Badge). They will be required to be assessed and successfully achieve their "S Badge" prior to participating. 15 | P a g e
Your child will be assessed by suitably qualified assessors who will determine your child's competency.
Competition Evaluation Assessments (“S” Badges) To maintain safety and lifesaving standards, Surf Life Saving Australia has a set of standards of competency that Nippers must achieve before being eligible to compete at carnivals. LSV has also mandated that Competition Evaluations (which are ONLY REQUIRED FOR THOSE NIPPERS WISHING TO COMPETE) be reassessed annually prior to the 31st December. These evaluations are designed to ensure that all nippers have the ability, strength and fitness required to complete competition courses specific to their age group. Competition Evaluation Assessments are commonly referred to as an “S” Badge”. In order for Torquay to conduct these assessments, it needs to ensure that water conditions are safe enough for the assessment to proceed and that sufficient qualified water safety and assessor personnel are in attendance. If for any reason, the conditions are unsuitable then the assessments will not proceed as the safety of those in our care is of paramount importance. The evaluations must be carried out in open water and with a continuous effort of swimming (freestyle) unassisted around the same course as required for a carnival. Dedicated “S” Badge sessions will be held on nominated dates prior to the commencement of the Summer Holiday Program. The dates, times and locations for these assessment sessions will be published on the club’s website (www.torquayslsc.com.au). No assessments will be conducted at any other times other than exceptional circumstances and only with the consent of the Director of Development, the Junior Competition Manager and the Junior Water Safety Manager. These proficiency restrictions are mandated by LSV in the interests of ensuring the safety of those who participate in competition and to ensure members are working towards their ongoing lifesaving proficiency development. “S” Badge assessments are only applicable to the U9 and above age categories. The details of the evaluation assessment are listed at Appendix 1.
Carnivals Who can compete? U8 - U14s are the only age groups allowed to compete at carnivals. There are no competitions for U6 & U7 age groups. U8 will only compete at local carnivals and not at State level. To be eligible to compete at carnivals Nippers will however have to have successfully have passed a Competition Evaluation prior to 31st December 2012 which is often referred to as an “S” Badge, or in the case of U14 – their SRC. To register to compete – competitors must, prior to registration, have had their Competition Skills Evaluation forms processed by LSV – these are mandatory:
U12 – U14 to compete in ANY event
U9 – U11 to compete in water events only (excluding the wade events).
How to enter? All entries for carnivals are required to be entered into the LSV Competition Database. LSV will advise of the cut-off time frames applicable to the closing of registration windows. To register, nippers will be required to notify the Junior Carnival Registrar and have made full payment of the carnival fee no later than the MONDAY prior to the carnival with the exception of registrations for Junior State Titles which must be completed by no later than 7th MARCH 2013. These closing dates for the club are to enable sufficient time to complete the carnival entries onto the competition database by the LSV cut-off times. Nippers will not be able to be enrolled for a carnival on the day.
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As a club policy, no registrations will be accepted once the registration window has closed. The onus will be on the nipper families to ensure they have registered and paid and not the Age Managers or the Carnival Registrar.
Entry Fees Entry fees for carnivals for season 2012-2013 are:
$16 - Junior State Carnivals
$17 - Regional Carnival
$30 - Junior State Titles Payment for entries can be made via the Junior Carnival registrars or online via the SLSA payment gateway (http://pay.slsa.com.au). When paying online – please ensure you clearly state the name of the competitor, the event and the age group that you are paying for.
Carnival Uniforms As part of the Sun Smart policy – competitors are reminded of the slogan No Hat – No Shirt – No Start. At all times when marshalling – a broad-brimmed hat and shirt with sleeves must be worn. Competitors may also not be allowed to compete in beach events in singlet tops or bathers. Please be prepared and bring a t-shirt just in case. Competitors will not be allowed to marshal for an event without these. Also – all jewellery, friendship bracelets, anklets etc are all required to be removed prior to marshalling. A club cap is the mandatory item for competition along with the designated fluoro pink rashie/competition vest. It is the preference of the club that Club swimwear is also worn.
What to Bring? There are Torquay tents that we provide for our competing members and we ask parents to bring their own umbrella/tent/chair and sit nearby. You will require plenty of water and food to last the day, sun cream, nipper cap, fluoro pink rashie/competition vest, club costume and warm clothes if the weather/wind turns.
Club Craft Torquay has a variety of fibreglass and foamy boards that members can use at carnivals. Depending on availability, craft will be transported to the carnival via our board trailer, and the boards will be taken to the beach near the tent. Families will be asked for your assistance with transporting craft to and from the beach. Craft are required to bring back any craft used to the tent immediately after your race for use by other competitors. If the trailer is not available then families will be advised and be asked to make arrangements for transporting of craft required for use at carnivals. Pick-up and the return of craft will be via the Club’s Junior Gear Shed and will be organised by the Nipper Gear Steward.
How can parents help? Without the help of parents, nipper days and carnivals would not be able to be held. The club needs to supply one official and one water safety officer for every 10 nippers entered. Eg 70 members entered 7 officials and 7 water safety officers. If the club is unable to meet these quotas, competitors may have to be withdrawn from the carnival. Parents of competitors are urged to obtain at least one of Official, Bronze Medallion, IRB Crew or IRB Driver accreditation to enable the responsibility of meeting these quotas to be shared across all families and not left to a small number of parents – remember, we would all like, at some point, like to see our children compete also.
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Refreshments It is a good idea to have your Child’s own esky to take to the competition area filled with their food, goggles, club cap & drink so as you are not running up and down the beach between events. Wait times can be tedious and the team tent can be at the other end of the beach. If children are running back and forth to get drinks etc they may miss marshalling of their event, not to mention wasting energy doing so.
Board Handlers Each age group needs a designated board handler who must be equipped with a club competition hat. This handler needs to be prepared to get wet and not obstruct other competitors.
Team Selections Torquay also competes in a number of team events at carnivals during the season. Selection into these teams is made by the Age Group Managers, Club Coaches and Competition Team Manager of each age group and are based on performance with the ultimate decision lying with the head Nipper coordinator. Given the number of competitors for the club and the number of events for which we qualified teams it is inevitable that not all children will be able to compete in every team event. Team lists will be published but please be aware that these still may change on the day as a result of changing conditions. Teams have been selected based on a number of criteria (including but not limited to: ability, commitment, past performances etc). Age managers deliberate at great lengths over team selections and for many these choices are agonizing. Any queries in relation to team selections should, in the first instance, be addressed with your child’s age manager – however, please be respectful of the selection process. The overarching selection responsibility lies with the Director of Junior Development – Chris Burgess.
Competition protocols for parents Only Age Managers and Competitors are to enter the competition areas. Parents and spectators are to respect these boundaries and remember to stay on the spectator side of the boundaries. In the event of a dispute or protest over an event, it is the responsibility of the age managers and team manager to liaise with the officials. Parents should not approach the officials if they believe a protest is required – do this via your age manager. Clubs can be sanctioned over the behaviour of our spectators. Team Managers are the only club representatives to approach the administration desk in relation to protests. At some carnivals, in particular the State Championships, you may be required to register at the LSV tent if you wish to take photos. You will be issued with a wrist band which you should wear for the duration of the carnival. To register you will need to show your WWCC card.
Other Suggested Items Please pack for all kinds of weather as weather conditions can change rapidly. It would be good idea to pack a beach tent, jackets, snacks and drinks for a full day on the beach....... Sun Shelter Towels – plus extras for the end of the day Wetsuits Esky Drinks and Snacks Sunhats (or beanies if it’s cold) Sunscreen Jackets and warm dry clothes for the end of the day Fluoro pink rashies/competition vests Umbrella in the boot – just in case Chairs etc Be prepared! 18 | P a g e
Parental Involvement Parents are encouraged to assist in the running of the club days with tasks such as age group managers and assistants, fundraising activities and administration. We ask parents who are members to volunteer as either as an official, water safety officer or part of the beach setup taskforce. These volunteers are required for specific activities, mid-week training, surf carnivals and nipper days, so it is of great importance that Torquay has a depth of personnel to call on during the nipper program. You may be asked to help at a few nipper days or carnivals. It is an extremely rewarding experience to participate and provide assistance to a voluntary organisation enabling children to develop and reach their full potential in a fun, safe and harmonious environment.
Officials Officials are the key to the effective running of all Lifesaving events. Officials help with the running of the carnivals either by judging, marshalling competitors, presenting medals, recording results or starting races. You will need to complete a Level 1 Surf Official course to be able to official at carnivals.
Water Safety
Water safety mainly spend their time in the water on nipper days and/or carnivals either on rescue boards, swimming with tubes/ fins or being markers for the wade races, monitoring nippers during their races. You need to have either a current Surf Rescue Certificate or Bronze Medallion to be a Water Safety officer. Water Safety officers will be easy to spot with their fluoro orange caps and shirts.
Coaches Coaches play a pivotal role to provide competitors with the technique and fitness to compete successfully and become better lifesavers. Level 1 coaching courses can be arranged for any adult member’s interest in becoming a coach.
Beach Setup Task Force Responsible for the set up and pack up of equipment at carnivals and nipper days. Depending on the amount of volunteers we have, you may be asked to help on a few nipper days setting up and/or putting away of equipment and/or at a carnival.
Working with Children Check (WWCC) Torquay is committed to protecting children from harm and promoting their wellbeing. An important child protection initiative of the Surf Lifesaving movement is the participation in the working with children check as set up by the Commission for Children and Young People. This ensures all volunteers who work with children undergo a criminal history check and imposes penalties on persons who fail to comply with the requirements of the Act. You must have a Working With Children Check (WWCC) if you are over 18 years of age. All nippers must be registered under a family membership with their parents/guardians. If the parents/guardians do not have a WWCC their family membership application will not be accepted. WWCC application forms can be obtained from any Australia Post outlet. A copy of your WWCC card or proof of lodgement of a WWCC application must be provided with your membership (renewal) application. Without this proof your membership application cannot be accepted. 19 | P a g e
If you already have a WWCC you must complete a Change of Personal Details form to add both LSV and TSLSC as volunteer organisations to your existing card. Changes to your volunteer organisation details and other personal details can be made via Online; Phone or Post. Remember to list ALL of your existing organisations or employment on this form to ensure they remain current. Please refer to the FAQ section at the end of this booklet for information about VIT Teachers & Vic. Police checks any why these are unacceptable.
After Juniors A primary objective of the Nippers Program is the introduction to the senior club after the age of 14. From here members are asked to perform voluntary beach patrols utilising skills learnt during their junior years. The reward for those who continue on to the senior ranks is considerable. In return for a members patrolling service, the Club offers a range of facilities and services such as comprehensive coaching programs, a large array of life saving awards and competition opportunities. Juniors initially enter into the Under 15 category and will undergo the Bronze Medallion qualification. Award Bronze Medallion (BM)
Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC)
Advanced Resuscitation Techniques Certificate (ART)
Resuscitation (CPR) Certificate Level II First Aid Certificate Spinal Management
Proficiency Assessment Requirements
Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Crew Certificate
Silver Medallion Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Driver
All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Operators
Hold a Certificate II in Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue) Signals – 10 correct 200m Run – 200m Swim – 200m Run (8 minutes or less) Board or tube rescue (flippers optional) A patient assessment on a live patient and demonstration of lateral position 1 & 2 Person CPR on a manikin (adult or child or infant), including O2 supplemented CPR Theory assessment paper Defibrillation awareness IRB Awareness Signals – 10 correct 100m Run – 100m Swim – 100m Run (5 minutes or less) Board or tube rescue (flippers optional) A patient assessment on a live patient and demonstration of lateral position 1 & 2 Person CPR on a manikin (adult or child or infant) Theory Assessment Paper A patient assessment on a live patient and demonstration of lateral position 1 & 2 Person CPR on a manikin (adult or child or infant), including resuscitation methods using a mask Oxygen Equipment operation (during CPR on a manikin) Use of Osopharyngeal Airway Defibrillation – knowledge, skill and safety precautions simulated use on a manikin Suction – use of hand held device for fluid removal A patient assessment on a live patient and demonstration of lateral position 1 & 2 Person CPR on a manikin (adult or child or infant) Maintain current CPR Certification throughout three year period Complete approved Senior First-Aid Course or update every three years Demonstrating placing a patient on a spinal board in a surf environment and on land Application of a cervical collar on a patient. This may occur during the above scenarios clearly identifying how to correctly measure and apply a cervical collar Hold Current Bronze Medallion Theory Assessment Paper Submission of completed Personal IRB Log/Club Declaration with sufficient hours and Practical Assessment as an IRB Crew Person Hold current Bronze Medallion Hold current IRB Crew Certificate Present current Recreational Boating License Theory Assessment Paper Practical Assessment as an IRB Driver Valid Full Drivers Licence Pre-operational safety checks Personal protective equipment Safe ATV operation
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Radio Operator’s Certificate
There are no set proficiency requirements for the Radio Operators Certificate for the 2012/13 season. Members holding the Radio Operators Certificate should ensure they keep up to date with changes to club equipment and club and state radio procedures.
Use of Club Facilities Supervision of those under 18 Parents/guardians of Junior members are expected to supervise these members at all times whilst on club premises.
Senior Members Lounge and Liquor Licence The Executive of TSLSC holds a liquor licence that permits the Club to sell alcohol during specified times. The alcohol purchased must be consumed within the licensed area which is the entire upstairs area at the Clubhouse including the deck area. No alcohol purchased from TSLSC can be consumed on the apron floor or on the beach; this is because our licence is on premises pertinent to consumption of alcohol within our licensed area. Members are able to bring guests to the licensed area of the TSLSC provided that each guest is signed into the guest book located in the bar area. This is a liquor license requirement as the TSLSC Liquor License is only for the sale of alcohol to members and guests. Members under the age of 18 are not permitted in the Bar area unaccompanied by a supervising adult. Minors will not be served at the bar.
Great Hall The great hall is open for members to relax when the club house is open. Members should ensure they are dry and sand-free before entering and the wearing of wetsuits in the clubhouse is not permitted. The hall can be hired out for functions and has its own bar and kitchen facilities separate to the Senior Members Lounge. If members are interested in hiring the facilities please contact the office.
Swipe Cards TSLSC uses a swipe card system to enable member only access to sections of the club facilities. These cards are available for purchase for a one off fee of $25. The card will only be active whilst the member is financial. Cards will be disabled at the end of the membership season and only reactivated upon receipt of membership fees. Swipe cards (Male or Female) will be required to access the Gym and change rooms.
Gym Only financial members over the age of 18 are permitted to use the Gym. Swipe cards are required to access the facility. Members should always carry a towel and wipe down any equipment after use.
Change Rooms Male and female change rooms with shower facilities are available for members only use. A swipe card is required to access these facilities. Members are reminded that these facilities are not available to the general public. Hot water is available at a rate of $0.20 per minute using 20c pieces. This charge is used to offset the cost of providing and maintaining these facilities.
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2012-2013 Junior Members Calendar Only a selection of dates relating to the junior members have been published below – for the full listing refer to the Club Website, club emails or notice boards as dates may be subject to change at short notice. AUGUST to OCTOBER - Training starts each Sun morning– conditions permitting and based on water safety availability NOVEMBER - Sat 3rd- Club Open Day – 9.30am to 2.00pm - Sat 10th & Sun 11th – SRC Course (part 1) - Sun 11th – Bronze Requal – Torquay 10.00am - Fri 16th – VOLUNTEERS DAY – working bee at the club for anyone able to assist - Sat 17th & Sun 18th – SRC Course (part 2) - Sun 11th – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sun 18th – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sun 25th – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am DECEMBER - Sun 2nd – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sun 7th – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sun 9th – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sat 15th – Junior State Carnival #1 – Jan Juc – 9.00am - Sun 16th – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sun 16th to Sat 22nd – Bronze Camp - Sun 23rd – Bronze Requal – Torquay 10.00am - Sun 23rd – Training and “S” Badge assessments at COSY – 9.00 to 10.30am - Thu 27th – Bronze Requal – Torquay 10.00am - Fri 28th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 1 – 9.00 to 10.30am (includes “S” badge assessment) - Sun 30th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 2 – 9.00 to 10.30am (includes “S” badge assessment) JANUARY - Wed 2nd – Summer Holiday Program – Session 3 – 9.00 to 10.30am - Fri 4th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 4 – COSY CORNER CARNIVAL (cost involved) - Sun 6th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 5 – 9.00 to 10.30am - Wed 9th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 6 – 9.00 to 10.30am - Fri 11th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 7 – 9.00 to 10.30am - Fri 11th – Jim Wall Ironman Twilight Event – Torquay - Twilight - Sun 13th – Summer Holiday Program – Session 8 & FINAL – 9.00 to 10.30am - Sat 19th – Junior State Carnival #3 – Mt Martha – 9.00am - Sun 20th – Junior Club Championships and Presentation Evening - Sat 26th – Haviiana Day - Sun 27th – Surf Coast Regional Championships – Torquay 9.00am FEBRUARY - Sat 23rd – Junior State Carnival #4 – Warrnambool – 9.00am MARCH - Sat 9th & Sun 10th - VICTORIAN STATE SENIOR Titles – Anglesea - Sat 16th – Junior State Carnival #5 – Bancoora – 9.00am - Sat 23rd & Sun 24th - VICTORIAN STATE JUNIOR Titles – LORNE - Fri 29th – Good Friday Fish Day April - Mon 15th to Sun 21st – AUSTRALIAN Titles – Nth Kirra & Tugun, Queensland 22 | P a g e
For the new parent on the beach Q: My child is aged 12 today (born 5th October), what age group will he be in? A: This birthday is considered to be a lucky birthday in surf. The age group that your child is calculated to be in is the age they are as at the 30th September, therefore your child was 11 on the 30th September (turned 12 on the 5th Oct) and therefore are classed as being in the under 12 age group (even though they are 12). A child who has their twelfth birthday on the 30th July would be placed in the Under 13 age group. Q: Does my child change age groups if their birthday is during a season? A: No. Q: My child’s friend’s birthday puts him in different age group and they want to be together. A: Sorry the rules are that the children are placed in the age groups where their birthday falls – it may be good for them to be in different age groups, they can make new friends and still socialise before and after the training sessions. Q: What does my child need for the Summer Holiday Program sessions? A: Bathers, club cap which has the age group that they are in on it, long sleeve t-shirt or rash top, a sun hat, towel and sunscreen. Please see the Uniform Shop if you would like to purchase and club apparel. Q: What do they do in surf life saving? A: Running & flags, swimming, board paddling, wading, basic first aid skills, Surf Education and lots of FUN activities. Q: Can my child join in for one session to see if they like it? A: Unfortunately the answer is no. Only those financial members of the club are covered for insurance purposes. You and your child are welcome to observe the session and talk to any of our Nipper Team about whether or not you would like to join up as a member to participate. Q: Does it matter if my child has not been to nippers for some time? A: No. Each child will be taught what is required for their relevant age group. The Summer Holiday Program is open to all children regardless of their experience and skill. Q: Junior Awards – what are these for my child? A: Each age level award has sessions that they participate in to acquire relevant skills and knowledge. They will need to attend and participate in all the compulsory sessions to attain the award. Q: Does my child have to be able to swim? A: It certainly helps. However, they will complete a preliminary skills assessment including a swim and a float. This is usually carried out before participating in any junior activity to assess their swimming and self survival ability in the water. This will determine whether they can progress to the water based junior activities under normal water safety supervision or they will require closer supervision. TSLSC may not have the personnel or program to provide supervision to non-swimmers and may ask that these children seek swimming lessons externally (recommended anyhow) and then return to join in junior activities when the preliminary skill assessment can be competently completed. The next step is for them to train to complete the competition skills evaluation ocean timed swim over a particular distance for their age group. This allows them to compete in the swim and board related events at interclub carnivals which are not compulsory to attend. These are usually held on Sundays. The club will enter these assessments into the membership database (SurfGuard) which keeps track of these awards and are used to assess eligibility to compete at State Championships. Q: Is this a “Learn to Swim” program? A: NO. Although your child will benefit enormously and increase their confidence from exposure to water based activities including swimming and board paddling we do not provide specific learn to swim training or stroke correction. This is strongly encouraged to be taken up externally. Please advise your child’s Age Manager if your child is not a competent swimmer. Q: What and who are Age Managers? A: An Age Manager is a member of the club who takes responsibility for the instruction of a particular age group throughout the season. All Age Managers have participated in the Age Managers Course and have a WWCC. All Age Managers are volunteers.
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Q: What can I do to help? A: Parents can become involved in many areas of club activity. Areas can include – helping with training, coaching, officiating, fundraising, providing water cover (if you gain Bronze medallion), cooking the Club BBQ, etc, but most of all supporting your child in their junior activities. Q: My child has enjoyed the Summer Holiday Program and they would like to begin training. How does my child get involved? A: All children in Under 9 and above are welcome to join the training program. If your child would like to continue and start competing / training for the Torquay SLSC your Age Manager will be able to assist you in contacting the Junior Competition Manager or the Junior Coaching Coordinators. Please be aware there is an additional cost to compete in Lifesaving Victoria sanctioned carnivals. Q: What happens when my child finishes all the various junior age groups? A: The Nipper Program is designed to gradually introduce your child into the role of a qualified surf lifesaver and assist in patrolling the beaches. They can continue to be involved in a variety of competition events if desired. They will undertake various other awards and learn many facets of community service involvement. They can be taught specialist areas of competition and compete both at a state and a national level. Q: Why are VIT registered teachers and Victorian Police Officers required to get another WWC check for their lifesaving club? A: The reason that LSV insists all teachers obtain another Volunteer WWC Check is due to the following. If a Victorian Institute of Teachers (VIT) registered teacher or Victorian Police Officer commits an offence we as an organisation need to be notified. If LSV is not listed as the volunteers’ employer or relevant organisation, the Department of Education and Department of Justice (DoJ) would be informed but LSV would not. As a result, a teacher or police officer who is a member of a club could have committed an offence and still be interacting with children. This has occurred in the past and we are not willing to take the risk again. Hence, the reason that we stipulate all members must have an LSV specific WWC Check.
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Appendix 1 - Skills Evaluations and Awards Matrix
Preliminary Skills Evaluation
Junior Competition Evaluation
Surf Award
Under 7
NA
NA (shallow water activities only)
Surf Play 2
Under 8
25 metre swim, (any stroke), 1 minute survival float
NA (no water competition, except for wade which takes place in waist deep water)
Surf Aware 1
Under 9
25 metre swim, (any stroke), 1 minute survival float
Minimum 150m open water swim within 12 minutes (competition course as per competition manual)
Surf Aware 2
Under 10
25 metre swim, (freestyle), 1.5 minute survival float
Minimum 150m open water swim within 11 minutes (competition course as per competition manual)
Surf Safe 1
Under 11
50 metre swim, (freestyle), 2 minute survival float
Minimum 288m open water swim within 12 minutes (competition course as per competition manual)
Surf Safe 2
Under 12
100 metre swim, (freestyle), 2 minute survival float
Minimum 288m open water swim within 10 minutes (competition course as per competition manual)
Surf Smart 1
Under 13
150 metre swim, (freestyle), 3 minute survival float
Minimum 288m open water swim within 9 minutes (competition course as per competition manual)
Surf Smart 2
Under 14
Assessor
Notes
200 metre swim, Minimum 288m open water swim within 9 minutes (freestyle, in less than 5 minutes), (competition course as per competition manual) 3 minute survival float An SLSA Age Manager, SLSA Level 1 Coach, SLSA Level 1 Official, SLSA Training Officer (SRC/Bronze) or SLSA Assessor (SRC/Bronze) must oversee all skill evaluations
Every junior member is expected to participate in this evaluation, conducted by the club, prior to any junior water activity training or competition be undertaken. Any child that does not meet the required evaluation level will require a higher level of supervision when involved in water based activities at the discretion of the club.
Competition Skills Evaluation is mandatory for U12 – U14 to compete in ANY event and U9-U11 for water events only (excluding wade).
Surf Rescue Certificate Age Manager All junior members wishing to compete at the Victorian Junior Championships must complete the relevant Surf Education Award appropriate to their age group prior to the close of entries.
NOTE: The above distances are the minimum requirements. Some States may set standards above these minimum requirements
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Appendix 2 – Key Contacts TORQUAY EXECUTIVE AND COMMITTEE President Ian Turner Treasurer Anna Devonish Director of Fundraising Carolyn Biram Director of Development Chris Burgess Director of Marketing Damien Horan NIPPER SUB-COMMITTEE Director of Development Water Safety Manager Nipper Gear Steward Nipper Transition Manager Coaching Co-ordinator (Gold) Age Managers LSV – YLD Representative
Secretary Club Captain Director of Lifesaving Director of Facilities Director of Member Services
Chris Burgess Competition Manager Peter Quinlan Summer Holiday Program Co-ord. Jock Evans Junior Carnival Registrar Mick Nolan Coaching Co-ordinator (Blue) Sharon Harris / Jock Evans See Below F.I.T. Program Co-ordinator Chris Burgess LSV – Aquatic Sports Rep.
Lisa Taitapanui Noel Dubberley David Nankervis Ken Godfrey Rod Middleton
Troy Harris Mandy Muschamp Jodie Schaap / Kylie Schram Nicky Hooley Jen Conn Troy Harris
AGE MANAGERS AND ASSISTANTS U7 TBA U8 Tiffany Quinlan U9 Tim Leith U10 Mick Nemeth U11 Serrin Vernon U12 Sharon Harris U13 Jock Evans U14 TBA Other Club Contacts Member registrations Chief Instructor Boat Manager Ski Manager Associates Associates President Associates Treasurer Assoc. Comm. Members
Alan Dell Rod Costa Sam Hayden
Craig Davey Peter Quinlan Carolyn Biram Gail Smaniotto
Uniform Officer IRB Manager Member Wellbeing Officer Medical Officer
Jodie Schaap / Kylie Schram Max Rudd
Associates Secretary
Andrew Williams
Nicky Hooley Mandy Muschamp
Tim Leith Sharon Heathcote
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