Get in quick for MHVLA junior programme

Junior registration for the 2020-21 season is underway as the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service (MHVLS) lines up another summer of fun at the surf beach.

The Junior Surf Lifesaving Programme at Mangawhai Heads is designed to promote ocean sports and provide children from age 4 to 14 with the age appropriate skill sets to be safe and have fun around the beach and surf.

The hugely popular programme kicks off on November 8 and parents are urged to register their children as soon as possible or risk missing out.

A focus will be put on skill and character development as junior surf kids build confidence and develop beach and ocean skills while setting and reaching for personal goals.

The primary goal of the program is to provide a fun and challenging pathway for youngsters to develop all the skills necessary to eventually achieve their Surf Lifeguard Award.

The Junior Surf programme is not a drop-off program. Surf Life Saving New Zealand health and safety regulations require that a parent or guardian remain on site or actively involved during training sessions. Parents/caregivers are needed and strongly encouraged to help out in whatever aspect they are comfortable.

“We are on the lookout for additional coaches across all age levels. No previous surf experience is required, just a love of the ocean and a willingness to provide a fun and safe environment for our kids,” says junior surf coordinator Vanessa Fulton. "And if the ocean is not your thing, we also need volunteers to help with training equipment or manning the BBQ. Don't be shy, we are always keen for any help that's offered.”

Held every Sunday 10am to 12 noon, the programme is run entirely by volunteers, meaning enrolment numbers are strictly limited and all parents are expected to stay beachside during trainings.

§ There will be no junior surf registration days at the club this year, so get online to mangawhaisurfclub.org.nz, or email admin@mangawhaisurfclub.org.nz for a registration form. Parents and caregivers can stay informed throughout the season by joining the Mangawhai Heads Junior Surf Facebook page.

Local kids build skills and confidence in the ocean during the programme, and parents are expected to give a hand too. PHOTO/SUPPLIED