Developing future lifesavers in Esperance
Royal Life Saving WA recently hosted a Junior Lifeguard Club (JLC) development session in Esperance at the Bay of Isles Leisure Centre. This included development for both coaches and kids.
Coaches and staff of the leisure centre took part in an engaging information session to upskill and become familiar with the components of JLC. The coaches utilised this time to share approaches on delivering the program in fun and engaging ways. They also emphasised the importance of encouraging students to complete higher awards on the pathway to achieving their Bronze Medallion.
The group was also introduced to an extension of JLC, the sport of Pool Lifesaving by Royal Life Saving WA (RLSSWA) Sports Coordinator Jonnine Rowe. The foundational skills learned in JLC allow participants to become more competitive in the sport and the group can make the natural progression to a Swimming and Lifesaving Club.
All were invited for the second part of the session, both coaches and kids. This included students who are currently involved in the local Junior Lifeguard Club and those who were keen to have a go. They took part in a range of modified pool lifesaving events including the manikin carry, rescue tube relays, line throw relays and obstacle races.
While the students learnt new techniques and skills participating in these fun events, the coaches were able to learn from RLSSWA staff who provided tips and new ideas on how to teach these modified events.
RLSSWA Endorsed Swim Schools Coordinator Amy Vearing says “My favourite part was seeing the participants’ confidence and technique improve as we went along. They loved challenging themselves to master new rescue techniques in a competitive way!”
“This is what is so great about the Junior Lifeguard Club program, it brings together students from a range of swimming abilities, keeping them engaged while increasing their swimming and lifesaving knowledge and skills.”
There are currently 46 active Junior Lifeguard Clubs in WA and participation in this program can lead to a pathway to competition. Competitions in pool lifesaving are conducted at a club, state, interstate and international levels.
Royal Life Saving WA is able to run this program from the support of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
You can find your local Junior Lifeguard Club through the link below.
