Nippers is an activity based program consisting of surf education (a series of graded activities about surf awareness, surf safety, surf smart and surf rescue); beach (sand) events; and surf events. Nippers are introduced to surf life saving skills and education relative to their age and ability in a fun, friendly and encouraging atmosphere. This includes time for competition, education and other fun activities.
Our objective is to educate our junior members to be competent and safe in the surf environment and to become familiar with Woonona beach in particular.
We actively encourage our young adult members (rookies) to attain their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) and Bronze Medallion, developing self-confidence and leadership skills. These skills allow for a smooth transition to our Senior Club where they become involved in patrolling and surf rescue. There are further opportunities then to gain awards and compete in such things as R&R, pool rescues, IRB racing or surf boat rowing.
Parents are also encouraged to gain the SRC, Bronze Medallion or a surf lifesaving award in first aid, advanced resuscitation or radio operator, to name a few. We encourage parents/guardians to become actively involved and assist with Nippers whether on the committee or as an age manager, coach, carnival official or at our fundraising events. The success of our Club depends on the contributions by all its members.
Nippers is one of the fundamental areas of the lifesaving movement and being a member of Woonona SLSC allows your child to have an identity within Surf Lifesaving Australia, and to be part of a great national tradition.
One of the best features of Nippers is seeing young children (through encouragement, education and training) develop confidence and ability in the surf and beach environment.
A typical Sunday morning for Woonona Stingrays
Nippers assemble at 9.30 am (usually upstairs in the clubhouse) in their age groups and wearing their skull cap, a rash vest or other protective sun shirt and sunscreen. Age Managers then record each child’s attendance and any news items or announcements are made before activities begin. Age Managers then lead the children to the beach and after a brief warm up session the activities begin.
At the completion of Nipper activities all children must be signed off by their Age Manager and remove their skull cap. If you must leave before events have finished please have your child sign off with their Age Manager.
Nippers usually finishes by 11.00 - 11.30am but this may vary due to conditions. The emphasis in Nippers is on fun, and certain days may be set aside during the year where competition and training is put on hold and we have some other fun games and activites.
After Nippers you can relax in our courtyard and support our regular fundraising BBQ run by "The Rookie Cookies". Cold drinks and hot food will be on sale for a late breakfast or early lunch and the money raised goes towards the Juniors Presentation event, purchase of trophies etc.
Please note: Scheduled activities may be noted on the Club Calendar but are subject to change dependent on beach conditions. On occasions if many Nippers are competing in carnivals such as Sydney Water Series, McDonald's carnivals, Branch or State Championships, the regular Sunday activities may be cancelled or modified. Reasonable notice will be given, but also check the website and your email for any last minute announcements.
