The Ocean Athletes Programme runs from September/October - March. Details of the 2025/2026 season will be updated closer to the time. 

POOL RESCUE

During the colder months (June - September), our ocean athletes can also take part in pool based swimming activites and events. CLICK HERE for more details on the Pool Rescue Programme. 

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Our Ocean Athletes Programme is for all under 11 - under 14 children (must be at least 10 years old as of 1st October) looking to extend the skills developed in our Junior Surf Programme and to compete at the National Junior Championships, aka 'Oceans' which will be held at Mount Maunganui Main Beach.

During Ocean Athletes, participants will learn and develop a variety of skills. These will include: ​

• Craft – Board Paddling – safely moving in and out of the surf, using rips and currents, race tactics
• Surf Swimming – safely moving in and out of the surf, using rips and currents, race tactics
• Rescue Events – skill development to perform a rescue race scenario for a tube and board rescue
• Beach Events – sprinting, beach flags and distance running
• Team Events – tube and board rescue and relays

Whilst developing the above skills, our experienced coaches use a framework where participants become familiar with “living” our club values – fun, respect, commitment, encouragement and excellence. This helps them to prepare for lifeguarding and senior surf sports pathways available to them when they turn 14.

Ocean Athletes also offers participants an opportunity to compete in Junior Surf sport events throughout the summer, joining other junior athletes from around the country to share their passion for surf sports. The confidence and teamwork gained in these exciting competitions provides a valuable life experience for Ocean Athlete squad members.

Children wanting to participate in this programme may be required to complete a trial to ensure this is the right programme for them.

Block 1

30th September - 11th October 2024 (Term 3 holidays)

*no session on Friday 4th October as our coaches will be attending the National Pool Rescue Championships.

Block 2

14th October - 24th December 2024 (Term 4)

Block 3

3rd January - 25th January 2025 (School Holidays)

Block 4

28th January - 19th February 2025 (Term 1)

Please note that the tables above are generalised for simplicity and may change. These changes will be communicated to members of the programme via the Ocean Athletes group Facebook page, so please make sure you join this page.