SLSCs are encouraged to establish a Junior Surf Sport Program as surf sports and competition plays an important role in helping to strengthen and develop the skills of surf lifesavers, boost their motivation and provide them with additional social networking opportunities.
From the age of 7 (U8s), competitive Junior Surf Sport Program participants may begin to compete in intra-SLSC, inter-SLSC, branch, and state competitions. To ensure all junior members who wish to compete have the required ability, strength and fitness to participate safely, they must complete the Junior Competition Evaluation (JCE) for their age group. The JCEs are based on the minimum swim competition distances set out in the SLSA Surf Sports Manual.
The SLSA Junior Development Program’s resource kit also includes Junior Surf Sports—Coaching Points to:
- Get a complete understanding of the correct technique for a whole skill set, i.e., all board skills as opposed to just one skill set found in a lesson (e.g., paddling)
- Ensure you are teaching the correct surf skills technique when teaching surf skills beyond what the age lessons provide for.
You can find resources to support junior sport programs on the SLSNSW website including:
- A range of junior coaching videos to assist with coaching juniors
- The Junior Board Guide to assist with understanding which craft is used at each age group
- The Mid-week Training Fact Sheet for the requirements that relate to this type of training.
When scheduling junior surf sports activities, remember to refer to and use the SLSA Safeguarding resources and tools available to help your SLSC build and support a child-safe environment and meet the Australian Sports Commission Child Safe standards. Refer to the SLS Safeguarding website for more information.