Paddlesports Leader Training
May 22, 2023 - May 25, 2023
Registration Deadline: May 12, 2023 - 12:00AM
YMCA Camp Torenta, 730 S Lake Dr, Cadillac, MI 49601
Contact: Laura Quist
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Gain confidence offering paddling skills to your youth groups!
Prepare for summer paddling activities with formal instruction in both canoes and kayaks! Instructed by American Canoe Association certified facilitators (Michael Gray and Lisa Deziel), this session will empower participants to:
→Share paddling instruction with youth and adult audiences
→Gain confidence and the option to be assessed with American Canoe Association
→Learn and practice water rescues from kayaks and canoes
→Identify and mitigate risks inherent paddling events
This event is open to providers of any youth experiences including 4-H activities, YMCA, youth camps, church groups, scouting groups, and parents.
Two-step registration process:
- Register for coursework leading to American Canoe Association (ACA) assessments or certification (registration open now; links provided by class below).
- Use ACA course registration links for dates and classes listed below.
- ACA-certified vender (Uncommon Adventures) will provide instruction, watercraft, and PFDs.
- Participate in any day/course that works for your needs and ability.
- Membership in ACA is required to receive certification or assessment, but is not required for participation.
- Register for lodging and/or partial fee reimbursement, if desired.
- Lodging available for $25 (regardless of length of stay) at YMCA Camp cabins registered participants.
- Kitchen space available for meal preparation.
- 50% scholarship reimbursement available for approved 4-H volunteers with demonstrated plans to lead paddlecraft activities with youth. Volunteers must register at scholarship link to be eligible.
- MSU Extension staff should use this link for lodging but are should use professional development funds to offset costs.
Courses offered:
May 22: Level 1 Coastal Kayaking Skills (Register here.)
Develop efficient strokes and practice group rescues to become a safer paddler; successful completion earns a life-long skill assessment through the American Canoe Association.
May 23: Paddlesport Safety Facilitator (PSF) (Register here.)
PSF is a 4-year certification, allowing the facilitator to introduce paddlecraft safety and knowledge to the beginner paddler in a land-based setting. PSF General, Canoe, and Kayaking modules will be delivered. Must have background knowledge of paddling safety, environmental hazards, and rescue techniques. View coursework overview, objectives, and competencies here.
May 24: Paddlesport Safety Facilitator (PSF) (Register here.)
PSF is a 4-year certification, allowing the facilitator to introduce paddlecraft safety and knowledge to the beginner paddler in a land-based setting. PSF General, Canoe, and Kayaking modules will be delivered. Must have background knowledge of paddling safety, environmental hazards, and rescue techniques. View coursework overview, objectives, and competencies here.
May 24-25: Community Paddlesport Leader (CPL) (Register here.)
Learn to provide safe, fun, paddling experiences for beginners, that are not craft-specific. Targeted applications include community outreach programs, 4-H clubs and camps, parks, YMCA groups, and scouting programs. Instruction includes training and assessment for Community Paddlesport Leader certification. View coursework overview, objectives, and competencies here.
May 23-25: Paddlesport Safety Facilitator and Community Paddlesport Leader (Course Combinations) (Register here.)
May 22-24: Level 1 Coastal Kayaking Skills and Paddlesport Safety Facilitator (Course Combinations) (Register here.)
Not sure which course is best for you? Have a conversation about your experience and the waterways you plan to paddle. Contact ACA paddling expert and course provider Michael Gray/Uncommon Adventures at michael@mi-paddleadventure.com, 231-882-5525 (cell).
Details about ACA Course Curriculum (including course overviews, objectives, criteria, and assessment/certification details are found at https://americancanoe.org/education/for-aca-instructors/course-curriculum/
Questions about 4-H activity requirements? Contact Laura Quist, quistla1@msu.edu or 231-942-7552.
Registration for this event has closed.
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