Common Junior Surf
My son turns 5 in December, can he join?
Because of the huge developmental and emotional range within these younger years, it can be difficult to accommodate younger children.
My child is currently 7 (8 in January), what age group will he be in?
The age group that your child is, is the age they are on the 30th September of the year at the start of the season. Therefore your child was 7 on the 30th September (turning 8 in January) and is classed as being a 7-year-old and in the U8 age group (even though they turn 8 during the season). Children must compete at carnivals, and the Club Champs, in their correct age group. Children may train “up” or “down” an age on Sundays if agreed to, which will be assessed on a case by case basis.
Who will be coaching the children?
Most of our coaches are parent helpers. We are always on the lookout to enlist more parents into the role of assisting with Coaching. Please talk with any of the parents currently involved or our Junior Surf Coordinator if you’d like to help, but are not sure how to start.
My childs friend's birthday puts them in a different age group. Can they be together?
Children are put into groups where their birthday falls - they will need to compete at carnivals in the appropriate age group, however, should ability or other reasons suggest children may benefit moving “up” or “down” an age on Sundays, this may be agreed to and assessed on a case by case basis. Talk to the junior surf co-ordinator.
What do we need to bring?
High visibility rash shirts, beanie, togs, water bottle, snacks, towel, sunscreen.(a wetsuit is recommended prior to Christmas and late in the season). U10-U14 also need surf fins, which are different to regular swimming fins. These are key for safety when swimming on West coast beaches in particular.
If your child turns 5 during the October - February period of the season and wishes to join in, they will be considered for inclusion on a case by case basis.
The parent will need to attest that the child is confident/mature enough to handle being in a group situation with children up to 6.5 years old and be 100% responsible and in attendance with the at all times.
Can I drop my children at Junior Surf and leave?
No, it is absolutely necessary that a parent or designated guardian is at the beach during the entire duration of the Junior Surf activity.
I have 3 children and can’t be with all groups at the same time?
That is fine. Parents of U6 and U8 children need to be with their group at all times. Parents of U10 - U14 just need to inform the age group Coachof where they will be.
How often do I need to bring my child to the beach?
Our junior surf sessions are held most weeks (with two weeks off over Christmas/New Year). We understand that families are busy so the programme doesn’t require 100% participation, but your child will benefit from regular attendance. If your child is interested in attending carnivals, the additional sessions are a good idea to get used to the paddle boards.
Questions That We Get Asked
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