Adventure sports centre, Adventurous Experiences, has recently launched a development course for young people. The Youth performance pathway was piloted with a course over the Christmas holidays before launching in January.
Director of Adventurous Experiences and lead coach Keirron Tastagh said " We are delighted with the response! Based through kayaking, the staged development courses run indoors at Western Swimming Pool, Peel, prior to outdoor sessions offered during the summer".
Using existing programs developed by the British Canoe Union (BCU) the national governing body for paddlesport, and Adventurous Experiences own experienced team of professional coaches, 5 stages of training have been developed, each comprising 4 weekly sessions in the pool using a brand new fleet of river spec kayaks with easy adjustment, and high quality paddles and kit which maximises learning.
Adventurous Experiences have been working with Western Swimming Pool soon after it opened its doors, making the best use of the winter season to train safety and wet skills in a warm, comfortable environment. Kids on the two 'Level 1' courses which began on 18th January have already achieved their first nationally certificated award.
With a guide age between 10 and 14yrs, the courses filled very quickly, and progression courses have been scheduled to follow.
John Keggin, Office Manager at Adventurous Experiences said
"It has been a long time in the planning. Parents completing our adults training sessions and members of the Adventure Club, requesting safety training for their children, as well as increased awareness of our Youth Scholarship - Development and Leadership Program, and its benefits to individuals and the community, has stimulated demand for this service."
Key Outcomes, which are integrated into all aspects of training include;
• Kayak Safety
• Water Confidence
• Personal Safety
• Responsibility to Self / Others
Plus
Coordination and Balance - Physical Development - Team Building - Journeying
There is now opportunity for students from the Isle of Man who strive to fulfil their potential, to continue on the performance pathway as far as it may take them.
