BSAC’s university clubs are overcoming the challenges of Covid-19 by making the most of the various training opportunities on offer for their members.
The last couple of years have seen many university clubs impacted by a ‘double whammy’ of members unable to train during the pandemic resulting in fewer instructors as members graduate and move on. But, thanks to support from BSAC and the regions, a more collective approach toward diver training is starting to reap the rewards.
Increasing numbers of university clubs are now reaching out to the BSAC network to ensure sufficient instructor and training capacity.
Referral training, bespoke training days via a BSAC regional team, and accessing the new Branch + Centre partnership scheme are just some of the options open to university clubs struggling to complete their training ‘in-house.’
Nottingham University SAC and Sheffield University (SUSAC) are two clubs that have made the most of external help. Both have used their overseas dive trips to include referral training for members who need it.
SUSAC recently took 35 members on a club trip to Croatia, adding 12 newly qualified Ocean Divers and four Advanced Ocean Divers to their ranks.
Meanwhile, 21 members from Nottingham University SAC travelled to Malta, where they dived with BSAC Centre, Dive Deep Blue. Centre owner Jonathan Thomas said he was impressed with how the club worked to get the best experience for its members.
It was encouraging to see their experienced divers working alongside our instructor team to bring the rest of the group along within their current comfort zone. The result was a fun, enjoyable, and safe week’s diving for everyone.
More info on referral training with an overseas BSAC centre
Regional success
The BSAC Regional network has also been on hand to assist university clubs. The South East Region is one example – working with Portsmouth University SAC to facilitate bespoke training days to progress their Sports Diver and Dive Leader trainees.
With eight students taking part in Sports Diver skills at a training day in Wraysbury, the region is now preparing to deliver another training day for the club. South East Regional Coach, Julian Gill, said it was a pleasure to be able to assist.
We were impressed with the students who were all keen to get the most out of the day. And, as a regional team, it was a massive boost, knowing that you had really helped!
Does your club need support with diver training?
Whether you are a university or non-university club and need support with your members’ training, you can get additional help.
Contact BSAC HQ or your Regional Coach for more information.
