SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS 2008

SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS

MINUTES OF A MEETING HELD AT CATHCART ROAD 31 JANUARY 2008.

Warren,
Varrin
Deon
Lee
Hannes
Clint
Peter

Carnival of Sunday 3 Feb 2008 at Kings Beach.
Be there at 06.30 to set up arena’s and our own tent and equipment.
Bring finishing numbers
Scoring books
Peter to be U12 Scorer
Safety Officers and craft – Warren to follow up with Clive.
Patrick Billson and other parents to assist with safety?
Donald to bring the Distance Meter
Warren and Clint will organise a new batch of Hose Pipe Flags.
Warren will bring 8 Penny Pinchers Feather Flags for the “Flags beach arena”.
We will be setting up
4 X Flags arenas
1 X Sprint arena
2 X Water Arenas
Parents and coaches are encouraged to wear Summerstrand kit to help with the support and identification of our teams.
Dave Collins to assist with this carnival?

Level Test on Saturday 2nd Feb 2008. at 17.00 at Hobie Beach.
Varrin and Warren will both try to be there.
Lee has sent out notice to the new nippers about this level test.

East Cape Nippers: Plett carnival is on track and we will encourage as many Nippers as possible to be there.

Provincial Nippers: Selection and dates:
Warren will approach East Cape Lifesaving to see if we cannot bring the Provincial Competition a day forward to the Thursday as the Nippers are exhausted after a competition like this and cannot perform at their best if they have to go straight into the National Nippers competition.
Warren will approach EP Surf regarding team selection following the SA Lifesaving comment on the Minister of Sport’s comments on this matter.


Nationals:
We need to find a sponsor or sponsors to assist with the Kit and other expenses. Deon will approach a possible Sponsor with a proposal. Urgent as there may be printing etc to be done.
Dave Naude may be able to campaign for a sponsor or sponsors.
All new nippers should be kitted with board shorts and yellow shirts.

We will be having a Nippers Evening on Saturday 16th February.
We will have to contact the parents and Nippers to tell them about this as we plan to have some Lucky Draws for the Nippers, a “Party Pack” for each Nipper.
Possible evening to talk about Nippers Nationals, East Cape in Plett and the Provincial teams.
Also give some feedback on the two carnivals that we have already had.
Donald to set up the DVD presentation if possible.
We will have a Potjie as well as a 100 club the same evening.
There is Super 14 rugby: Stormers vs Bulls at 17.00 and Cheetas vs Lions at 19.00. on that evening.
NIPPERS NEWSLETTER. Sunday 3 February 2008.

Sunday morning: I left home early on the bike. The wind had been blowing for most of the night and it was a strong west wind that almost blew me off the bike as I rode down to Kings Beach. Varrin, Clint, Donald, Hannes, Roger and Warren met to set up the Tent and take the craft onto the beach.

Warren hitches the trailer to Clint’s vehicle and takes a running start but gets stuck in the deep sand. We are able to tow his vehicle with Paul’s 4X4 and finally have the trailer on the beach. Setting up the tent is going to be a real challenge in the wind. We had to hammer the pegs deep into the sand and pile loose sand onto the bottom sides of the tent to make it more secure. The wind gusts and men like Hannes are almost blown away as they grip tightly onto corners of the tent.

Once we had the tent set up we were able to get our team together. I was delighted to see a good turnout of nippers that morning. The wind must have put some of the nippers and parents off going to the beach but most of the teams were there to represent Summerstrand.

Our first priority was to get the new Nippers through their level test. They had done most of the work the previous afternoon but were unable to swim due to a strong East Wind. Some of them were a little nervous with the West wind blowing so strongly this morning, but we soon had them out there swimming as far as some of them had ever swum in their lives. It is always good to see these young people developing new skills and abilities. This was no exception and all of them passed their level test and were then able to compete in this Carnival.

The U12’s started off with a Malibu Individual race. We were concerned that the nippers may become blown away by the strong winds but they all coped exceptionally well and that set the tone for the rest of the morning. The events ran in quick succession. After the individual Malibu event, the U12’s took part in Sprints, Beach Relay, Long Run, Run-Swim-Run and Malibu Relay.

By the time they had completed their last event the organisers had decided to call it a day.

The sun and sand had taken their toll but we had all had a great morning on the beach. We must thank the organisers for setting up this Carnival for our benefit. Claire and her team had to work in the clubhouse and could not even watch their children participate. The Tuckshop ladies put on some fine faire but due to the wind and cutting the Carnival short they were left with supplies over. Plett in particular should be congratulated for their participation. They had to drive down from Plett in awful winds and then had to drive back again in equally bad weather.

A number of Nippers had taken part in Water Polo, Gala’s and Biathlon on the previous day. You could see that they had their race number from the previous day’s event still written onto their arms next to their Nippers numbers for the Carnival. These youngsters must have been exhausted as many of them would take part in every event in the Carnival.

The overall result was Summerstrand U10’ and U14’s won and the U12’s came second. Summerstrand had some outstanding Nippers recognised: Adam Stevenson, Jamie Lee Engelke and Matthew Wilson. Summerstrand were overall winners for the second Carnival in a row. Our next Carnival is due to be held in Plett from Saturday afternoon to Sunday afternoon the 1st and 2nd of March. This is the East Cape Champs and we will need to have a full team of participants if we are to have any chance of being “East Cape Champs” for the next season.

We will be meeting for Practice on Sunday 10th Feb between 11.00am to 13.00. Marius has agreed to assist with vital function of coaching of the Micro Nippers. These are the youngsters who will be the core of our U10 team of 2008/2009. Marius will need all the help that he can get from other parents or siblings willing to assist. Your U10, U12 and U14 coaches will be on duty and we expect to see all of you there for the next four weeks leading up to the Plett Carnival.

Saturday 16th February: We will be having a Nippers evening in the club house. This evening will be focussed on the Nippers: They will each receive some kind of “Party Pack” as well as Certificates to reward our young members for their efforts over the past two Carnivals.

This evening we will also be able to enjoy meeting parents as Clint will be cooking up his famous Pootjie, we will run Hundred Club draw and will be able to watch the Super 14 matches as the Stormers play the Bulls at 17.00 and Cheetas play the Lions at 19.00. We will also be talking to Nippers and Parents about the upcoming Plett East Cape Champs and the National Champs. Donald has offered to set up a DVD presentation of “Nippers in Action”. Please put this important evening into your diary.

Sponsorship(s). It is critical for us to try to secure sponsors for our National event in April. Your club has some huge expenses in equipment, kit for the Nippers and Parents as well as during the event itself. Please let us know if you would like us to approach an organisation or if you are able to make an approach on our behalf. Deon Engelke and Dave Naude will be available to make presentations and give some facts and figures.
Nippers
Summerstrand
Annual General Meeting and awards evening.
Held at the Summerstrand Lifesaving clubhouse
Friday 27th June 2008. 19.30h

A number of Certificates and Awards were handed to an exceptionally strong Nippers team for the 2007/2008 season.
The Under 14 Dream Team were recognised for their achievements and spirit over the past five or six years. Each one was awarded a Beanie and those leaving were urged to join up with the juniors.

Donald opened the meeting.
Warren read a comprehensive and detailed Chairman’s report. (see below)
Warren thanked the parents for their support.
Dave Collins complimented the parents on their participation.
Terry offered a DVD to assist with recruitment.
Sponsorship is essential for then new season.
Every parent is urged to be part of the parent team in what ever small way you can.

The following people offered to be part of the administration and coaching team for the 2008/2009 season.
Warren Collier – Chairman
Clint Meintjies – Vice Chairman
Terry Hepburn – Shadow Chairman
Peter Giddy – Secretary
Lee Collier – Actual Secretary
Shereen Van Der Watt -- assistant to Lee in Level Tests.
ANO --- Assistant to Lee in Carnival Coordination.
Claire Meintjies – Treasurer
Julie Dalgliesh – Assistant to Claire
Charmaine -- Tuckshop
Caryn Hepburn – Tuckshop assistant
Jacqui Zeelie – Clothing
Donald McGillivray -- Recruitment

Coaches
Roger Lightening; Andrew Jonas; Varrin Karp; Shereen Van Der Watt; Donald McGillivray; Alex Odendaal; Hannes Zeelie; Deon Engelke; Roger Fraser; Peter Giddy; Clint Meintjies; Charles Du Toit; Marius Smuts




Summerstrand Surf Nippers
Chairperson’s Report
27th June 2008.

1 Performance during the Season

The club has had its best season in recent years, winning ALL the local carnivals, including East Cape Champs, a title we have not held for three years. To top off and excellent season, we came a very close second to Fish Hoek at Nipper Nationals, who only beat us by a slim 27 points!

Well done to all our nippers, as each one of you contributed to these great results. While the nipper team achieved the club wins, we must also salute great individual performances. A number of U12 and U14 nippers received recognition from East Cape, and would have received colours if there had been an East cape side. These nippers were:

U12 U14
Kyla Naude Kirstie Engelke
Meghan Derry Lauren Billson
Kurt Van Staden Adam Stevenson
Luke Stevenson Oliver Wiehahn
Giovanni Falco
Jordan Zeelie
Nippers winning Victor and Victrix Ludorum awards this season included:

Adam Stevenson
Oliver Wiehahn
Lauren Billson
Matthew Wilson
Jamie- Lee Engelke
Lara Odendaal

Special mention must be made of our U14’s win at nationals. This group of nippers has won their section at nationals three times:

U10 – 2004
U12- 2006
U14- 2008

They are truly our dream team!!

2. Equipment

The challenge for the club this season was that we did not have an official sponsor. We had made a decision that our nippers needed to compete on Hurricane Boards, so we needed to find individual sponsors. I managed to arrange some contributors through my Penny pinchers suppliers. I would like to thank the following:

Rob Dowding - Ceiling Master
James Thompson - Motorvia
Spectrum Agencies
Swartland
Col Timbers

3. Financial Results

Claire Meintjes efficiently handled the finances this season. We started the season with around R20 000, thanks to the Equisweet sponsorship of the last two years. This also enabled us to buy two additional club Hurricane Boards. We paid for all carnival expenses and all club function expenses, and we have ended the season with around R6 000 in the bank.

This means we cannot be as generous next season, as we will only have membership fees and clothing profits to rely on. We need to find a sponsor for 2008/09.


4. Club events

We had a number of enjoyable social activities this season. We had 3 100 Club draws, the Christmas Party and the Gees party. Many thanks to Clint Meintjes, who provided us with very tasty food on most of these occasions!
Many thanks to all the families who supported us on these occasions. We believe that people who socialise together, will work hard together!

5. Thanks

A club of this magnitude cannot function successfully, without a lot of effort on the part of certain members. I would like to give special thanks to the following people:

4.1 Our coaching staff:
Joe Zeelie, Deon Engelke and Alex Odendaal, who achieved wonderful results with a small group. They won all the local U10 carnivals and lost out to Fish Hoek at nationals by only 12 points!
Varrin Karp, Roger Fraser and Peter Giddy, who did great work with the U12’s
Clint Meintjes, Charles Du Toit and Don McGillivray, who had the pleasure of coaching our victorious Dream Team U14’s!

4.2 Our Committee

Thanks to all committee members. However, special mention must be made of Claire Meintjes for coordinating the many administrative activities required to run the club.

4.3 Other Helpers

Terry Hepburn for all the photography, and for all the excellent recruiting efforts
Hannelie Bakker for officiating at carnivals
Lee Kemp for assisting with level tests and carnival arrangements
All the moms and dads who helped at practice and at carnivals!
Charmaine Ubsdell for helping at clothing/tuckshop on a Sunday!

Finally, we need to focus on 2008/09 to ensure that we continue on a winning trend. To do this, we need new blood on the committee, as the current committee all leave at the end of next season and we need continuity! We also need to recruit new nippers. We urgently need U10’s! We also need more beach specialists, especially at U14 level!

I am sure that as a Summerstrand Surf Team we can maintain our dominant position.

Warren Collier
Chairman
Summerstrand Nippers.

SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS.

Minutes of a meeting held at Clint & Claire on Wednesday 8 October 2008 at 18.30pm

Apologies:
Charles
Alex
Deon
Roger
Andrew

Present
Shareen
Peter
Clint
Claire
Warren
Donald
Hannes

Minutes of the last meeting:
Promotions:
St Georges was a success with Jonathan Liss being very positive
Summerwood on Monday 13th
Grey on Tuesday 14th
Deon sent out a very successful communication which was read by Neil Bissiker on Radio Algoa. See below for a copy.
U 10’s need more girls and U14’s need boys.

Nippers Nationals
Accommodation is still being negotiated as prices and quality do not seem to match. The host club to provide suggestions.
City / Road Lodge
Beach Hotel

Sponsorships
Nothing finalised
Gavin’s brother at Tiger. Donald to send a DVD to Allison Cameron with appropriate wording.
Other opportunities for branding or sponsorships:
Feathers
Clubhouse (Warren to follow up with Seniors)
Body Boards (Hannes) minimum of 20 are required.
Trailer. Possible for Atlas Mike Burmeister to fix up and brand the trailer.
Tent branding
Hurricane Boards if paid for
Costumes and scull caps
4 X torpedo’s required.

Subscriptions and fees as discussed last meeting.
Carnival and other competition fees to be paid individually.
Hardship discussions or applications to go directly to Claire.

Nippers Calendar
Warren has approached East Cape for hosting of a carnival as well as East Cape Champs.
Decisions still to be made regarding dates and East Cape to let us know as soon as possible.

Sunday 12th:
Free Hot dogs and Ice Cream: We will be providing for a potential 100 people.
Peter to buy Ice Cream and to bring gas cooker
Claire will prepare hot dogs.
We need as many coaches as possible as we have a number of people who will be away this Sunday.
Deon
Alex
Andrew
Marius
Roger
Varrin
Gavin
Peter
Shareen
Brian Saunders?
Ant Cox?
Warren
And any other coaches who will assist.

Scull caps: if the Nipper does not have a scull cap they will not be able to take part in training. In this case the nipper will have to “hire” one for a R30.00 deposit which will be refunded on return of the cap. It is impossible to control ‘unbranded’ Nippers.
Parents vs Nippers
Tug-o-War
Beach Relays
Flags

General
First 100 Club – 1 November 2008 Saturday.
Claire and Charmaine did an excellent job of sorting out the clothing. But even more good news: they took all the “old” clothing that we no longer use and gave this to a soccer club in Kwanobuhle (Uitenhage) and this club has 11 soccer teams kitted out and now wearing Summerstrand branded clothing. Great Move Claire!

Age categories:
If your birthday is before 30 September then you fall in the younger age group.
For example: If you turn TEN on 30 September then you are Under 12: But if you turn TEN on 1st October then you are Under 10 for that season. If in doubt please consult with Claire or your coach.

Requirements for Nippers Level Tests:
Must swim 400 Meters in a swimming pool. Once off only.
Must have a Birth Certificate
Must sign an indemnity form
Must complete the application form for a Level Test.
Must have the Level test Vouchers

If all of this has been done and submitted to East Cape Office then you will be entitled to apply for the next level test in two weeks thereafter.

We require some heavy weight anchors for the buoys
Disco for Grade 6 and Grade 7 only
Before or after Exams?
Nippers to sell tickets at R5
If response of Minimum 30 then go ahead.


Message sent by Deon to Radio Algoa.
Thanks Deon – nice one.

Very nice filler and I will use now at 08h30 this morning in sport and will also pass on to Roy Williams for his What’s On diary.

Shot for sending on to us.

Neil

Dear Shadley or Neil

Are you able to make use of this little article in sport or under upcoming events or when you chat about the weekend sport?
I am involved with Nippers at Summies and we are trying to grow this sport and develop water-skills etc.

Thanks gents
Deon



SUMMERSTRAND HOSTS NIPPERS OPEN DAY

Summerstrand Surf Lifesaving Club at Pollock Beach begins its bid to win national honours when the Nipper season officially starts on Sunday.

The club will host an Open Day for all prospective Nippers and their families this Sunday from 11am-1pm as they prepare to improve their national ranking.

The club is one of the strongest in the country, having been placed a narrow second at the Nipper Nationals Champs earlier this year, but it is not all about winning.

Club Chairperson Warren Collier said Nippers, or lifesaving for children aged between 8 and 14, was about developing life-skills on the beach and in the water.

“One of the greatest things, especially for people who live at the coast, is the ability to enjoy and handle the sea conditions and this is what Nippers develops in a safe, fun environment,”
Collier said. “It is one the most empowering activities for young people.”

The club near Something Good at Pollock Beach will be open to all newcomers this Sunday with goodies for all participants.

For more information please contact Deon Engelke at 041 3630310 or 082 692 4382 – cell

ends



Deon Engelke
Inkanyezi Events
tel 0413630310
fax0413638617
www.inkanyezi.co.za

242 Cape Road
Greenacres
Port Elizabeth
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS
Minutes of a committee meeting held on Thursday 13.11.2008. at Peter’s house:18.30pm.

Present:
Nicole
Shareen
Thomas
Andrew
Donald
Hannes
Clint
Warren
Terry
Peter

Apologies
Claire
Roger F
Roger & Louise L
Varrin
Charles
Deon

Welcome to Nicole, Thomas and Andrew. Andrew made the comment as to how much more the Nippers enjoy the activity when parents are involved. So thank you to you for your interest, attendance and contribution.

Minutes of the previous meeting.

Cash Flow:
Cash to be banked and money owed to Meintjies’ family to paid over.
Paid for Chafe vests, cossies and scull caps.
Paid for level tests and open day.
Shirley, Caryn and Charmaine are keeping the Tuck Shop well stocked. Many thanks and well done to them for all their efforts.

Clothing
T shirts and Shorts order has been placed. May be ready for Sunday 16th.

Chafe Vests for Coaches
Coaches: Please respond (Now!) to Claire or Peter if you want a Chafe Vest. Thanks to those already responded. Please let Claire have the money for this.
S,M,L R155; XL R165; 2XL R175; 3XL R180; 4XL R190

Level Test Dates and times.
There will be a Re-Test of those Nippers who did a Level test on Sunday 9.11.2008 but who for one or other reason did not qualify. This will be at Hobie Beach at 10.00am. Nippers should be at the beach 20 Minutes early as there will be a coach to revise on Signals etc.
There will be a Level Test for all other Nippers who have handed in a Birth Certificate and who have completed their pool swim. This Level Test will be conducted at Hobie Beach on Sunday 23.11.2008. 10.00am

Sponsorships
Donald presented a DVD that he had made up for Tiger Brands. It showed the sponsor brand, the extent of the exposure and Nippers in action. It is a very effective DVD and he has offered to do something similar for Puma and for ADT who are potential sponsors. Hannes may be able to secure a sponsorship for scull caps for all nippers plus something like 100 more.

Nippers Nationals Accommodation.
Claire has obtained a group booking at the Parade Hotel. Price is R2 300 for three nights for a double (three bed family) sea facing / corner room. Or R1 960 for a Twin Room. R800 deposit has to be paid per room. I have spoken to Brenda at the hotel and she needs a verbal commitment by about 20.11.2008 and a Financial Commitment as soon as possible thereafter. Parents to confirm with Claire or Peter as soon as possible.

Arrive Thursday 2 April 2009 and depart Sunday 5th April 2009.
Nippers Nationals is a Three Day event starting on the Friday at Midday and ending on Sunday at about 14.00 or 15.00pm after the prize giving and awards ceremony.

Coaches to contact their parent and Nipper groups.

Nippers Carnival in Plett. Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November.
We have not yet had a program but in previous years the Plett Carnival starts on Saturday at about 12.00 on the Main Beach. Payment of R10 or R20 per Nipper must be made on arrival.
Nippers must have completed a Level Test for their age category to be allowed to compete.
These Carnivals are fun events and Every Nipper will be able to compete in a variety of events.
We will pitch our Yellow Gazebo as the central meeting place on Central Beach.
Parents should make their own accommodation arrangements. There are a number of options: Camping, Bed and Breakfast’s, Castleton or the River Club are suggestions. Nippers gain a huge amount of experience and have a great time at the Plett Carnival.
We must have parents willing to take times and places at each age group. This information is required for our own awards as well as future team selections.
Everyone must assist with off loading and loading of the craft onto the trailer.
Please stay for the awards and results at the end even after your child has completed his/her last event. This will finish at about 15.00.
Peter to establish if there will be a level test at Plett on the morning before the event. Also what are their requirements regarding teams etc.

Nippers Hobie Beach Carnival on Sunday 7th December. More details to follow.

100 Club. This will be held on Friday 5th December. This will be a Bring & Braai. Details to follow.

Disco Evening on hold

Judges:
Warren will contact a number of the existing Summerstrand Judges and Officials to see who will be at Plett and Hobie beach. He will also ask East Cape what are the requirements. Peter & Hannes attended a “course” last season.
In the East Cape LSA Minutes they state:
There will a judges/officials course in our area.

Hurricane product display.
Monday 17th November at 17.30: all parents and Nippers are invited to Summerstrand for a display of the Hurricane Wares. They will have a variety of their products on offer. Nippers may also want to “Test Drive” if it is a good afternoon.

Sunday 16th and Sunday 23rd will be trials for teams for the upcoming carnivals. Coaches will be taking times.
Donald suggested that we establish a “Ladder” for the various disciplines. This to be put up in the clubhouse.
In some cases times and teams for Beach sprints and relays have been established.

Trailer
Warren and Penny Pinchers, Barkhuizens and Uli Von WIlderman have done a complete overhaul of the Trailer. Thanks to these generous sponsors. To be branded “Penny Pinchers”

Subscriptions: if you have not yet paid:
2008/2009 Fees for Nippers Membership:
R350 for first child
R250 for subsequent children in one family.
Approach the treasurer (Claire) should fees be a problem.
No change from 2007/2008.
Micro Nippers are trained at no cost but must wear Summerstrand colours including a scull cap.
Carnivals: Entry fee of between R10 and R20 to be paid by individuals.
Nationals Entry Fee at about R100 to be paid by individuals.
Direct deposits : “Summerstrand surf lifesaving club cadets”
Standard bank branch 050017; Account Number : 080023835;
Email confirmation to Claire at shrek_3@vodamail.co.za
Or pay in cash on Sunday.

Updated Calendar of events:
Sunday 16th and 23rd November Nippers practice and trails for upcoming Carnivals. Level tests at Hobie Beach.
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November --- Plett Carnival. Parents to make own travel and accommodation arrangements.
Sunday 7th December possible carnival at Kings Beach
Sunday 28th December 2008: Sunday: No Nippers practices.
December & January school holidays: Nippers will continue through the school holidays on Sundays 11.00am to 13.00.
10 January 2009: committee, coaches and parents meeting to plan and organise the Summerstrand carnival. Peter’s house at 18.30pm.
25th January 2009: Summerstrand carnival at Summerstrand. (Pollock Beach)
15 February 2009: Cut off date for Nippers Level test for East Cape champs.
22 February 2009: Redhouse River Mile.
28 February 2009. Cut off date for Level Test for Nippers to take part in Nationals in Durban.
7th March 2009: East Cape Champs. Hosted by Summerstrand at Summerstrand Pollock Beach.
Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th April 2009: Nippers Nationals: Ushaka Beach, Durban.

SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS COMMITTEE MEETING
Notice and agenda

Notice of a Summerstrand Nippers Committee and Coaches meeting to be held on 8 January 2008 at Peter’s house: 23 Mill Park Road: 18.30pm

Agenda
Welcome
Minutes of the meeting of 13.11.2008.
Level Tests

Preparation for the Summerstrand Carnival of 25th January 2008.
Beach Preparation
Arena’s
One or Two water arena’s
2 X Flags set up: Ropes and measurements
Sprint arena.
Officials and Duties
Results and recording
Program of events
Tuckshop and catering
Shower and toilet facilities
Catering for officials and volunteers
Entry lists and Entry fee collection.
Safety officers
Other
.


NIPPERS HOBIE BEACH CARNIVAL
Sunday 7 December 2008.

From the start we battled to extract any information regarding this carnival. We knew that it was on the Nippers Calendar, however that was about the sum total of the information that we received. In addition to this we had the added complication of an Aquabear Gala and Water Polo events on the same day. Finally, after some time and effort, Claire was able to obtain a program. The Carnival was to be held at Hobie beach at 09.00am and the first event was to be a Taplin relay and then a number of events would follow.

I was able to send out a notification with just days to spare and must apologise to those who did not hear about this Carnival and who waited for us at Summerstrand.

The Trailer was still packed from the Plett weekend and Warren parked the trailer in the Hobie Parking lot. We arrived at around 08.00am and began with setting up our tent. The tent is to me, a symbol for parents and for Nippers, that Summerstrand it there. And that we are prepared for the day’s activities. We then brought some of the boards down to the beach and within a few minutes, Nippers started to arrive and were out in the ocean having a great time.

East London were next to arrive and then Paul from Kings Beach arrived with a small team of his Nippers. East London had somehow received a notification of the Carnival and had a reasonably large team of Nippers. There was, as far as I could see, only one little girl (Whitney) from Hobie Beach. Time passed and 9.00am approached without any sign of arena’s being set up nor any of the organising club being present. Resourceful as ever; the Kings Beach and Summerstrand coaches banded together and decided that we would run our own Mini Carnival.

First out were the U10 Taplin teams with other age groups following suite. Warren had rushed back to Summies to fetch some flags and we set up a flags arena which our small team of U10’s were first to use. The U14’s headed off to a sprint arena that had been set up and now we had a bit of a flow going. Parents assisted in all kinds of ways including; scoring, marshalling, water safety and catching. Even Katharine and Lisa Marie assisted in the water as the U10.s did their body board event.

During the morning between about 9.00am to 12.00pm we managed to fit in: Taplin, Flags, Individual Beach sprints, individual Body board, individual Malibu board, beach sprint relays and finally an Iron Nipper event. The one thing about having less control is that normal rules don’t apply: We dispensed with numbers. We did not ask who had done their level tests, when we had to do the team beach sprints we did not have the right numbers for teams so organised mixed (between clubs) teams for the event. And to top it all when we asked which of the U10 Nippers felt up to doing an Iron Nipper event we had a contingent of about 10 brave young boys and girls who were willing to take a chance.

Brett from East London made himself into a human Buoy and the U10’s swam around him and then Body Boarded around him as well. The event ended up with the youngest of Nippers out on Malibu’s around the red buoy. This is a tough event for these young people and we can be proud of there courage. The u14’s and U12’s followed with an Iron Nipper event.

Despite the non existent organisation those who were able to make it down to the beach on Sunday had a wonderful morning. The sea was flat and almost waveless. Most of us were able to find reasonably good parking and for those of us who enjoy a swim with the Nippers it was a fine morning for a “Goof”. Thank you parents for the many ways in which you assist so willingly. Without your support on and off the beach we could not organise this fantastic life style for our children.

Finally thanks to the Nippers for your enthusiastic participation and the way you have bonded into a team. Summerstrand was well represented and while I don’t think that there are going to be official results, I would be surprised if we would not have won the day despite depleted teams.

Peter
7.12.2008.

NIPPERS
PLETTENBERGBAY CARNIVAL
Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th November 2008.

The Plett Carnival always seems to spring itself on us early in the season. However it is a great motivator to get us all going with training, Level Tests, sorting out teams and recruiting of new Nippers. This year the Plett carnival was postponed to the end of November so we had a bit of breathing space. We had recruited huge numbers of new Nippers and these young people and their parents all had to be introduced to what Nippers and carnivals are all about. The U10’s had started off with something like 6 Nippers at the first Sunday and this had grown to over 25 active Nippers at last count. The U12’s and U14’s had also a whole gang of new young boys and girls who seemed as keen as anything to become part of this great activity.

Our daughter, Ally had decided that she no longer needed us and travelled down to Plett with her long time friend, Amber. So Barbara & I drove down on Saturday morning on our own. It seemed like it was going to be a bit overcast and I had a few doubtful parents question whether the carnival would go ahead as planned. My stock answer to this question for both Sunday practices and Carnivals is: “Your coaches will be there!”

After we had off loaded our stuff at my mothers flat (she lives in Plett), we headed for the beach and were happy to see that Warren had found a good parking and had left the trailer for the first there to off load. There were a couple of other parents who also arrived early and we quickly got stuck into carting the boards to our normal spot that we like to book for Summerstrand. We had the tent up in a flash and Barbara had our chairs (so kindly donated to us by Terry Billson) set up. I had brought programs and teams so that as the Nippers arrived they could see what was going to be expected of them.

Ant Cox called a managers meeting at 11.00am and once some of the detail had been sorted out we were able to start the first events. In the U10 group we realised that we had just 7 participants and the first event was the Taplin Relay which required four Nippers per team. When we explained that the swim was WAAAAY out to the two buoys and back then the body board section would be the same there was a bit of a pause before we convinced our team that we would be fielding two teams with one member having to do two disciplines. The U12s and U14’s had no such trouble as they have some wonderfully capable swimmers and boarders. Fortunately the Plett surf did not let us down and it was reasonably flat and calm throughout the Carnival.

I promised our younger team members that I would be with them the whole time so ended up doing quite a bit of water work that afternoon. And, by the way, the sea temperature was not as warm as it will be in Durban later next year! But in the end we did our thing and, much to the coach’s delight and pride, both U10 teams finished the Taplin Relay. We then moved on to the Flags section where the U10’s were much more comfortable and we had a good number in the finals. Poor young Marion was the only girl in the U10 squad but she certainly held her own doing almost every possible event that there was.

That afternoon we managed to complete the Taplin relay, the Flags heats, the individual Body Board event, the individual Swim event, the individual Beach Sprints heats, the Malibu relay, the Beach Sprints Relay heats and the Body Board Relay. This is a huge number of events for any Nipper and by the end of the day (16.30) everyone was quite exhausted. The day had remained overcast and cool and so we had the weather on our side.

Someone had booked supper at the fish restaurant near to Castleton and we headed off there for supper. A group of parents had stayed at the beach restaurant to watch both 15’s and 7’s rugby and by the time the arrived at supper they had already had a fair share of enjoyment. It was a stunning evening and we sat outside together with a table full of U14s at one table and U12s at another. The rest of the U12’s were having themselves a ball at Castleton. The vibe amoungst both the adults and the youngsters was something to experience.

Sunday morning we were up early and at the beach shortly after 07.00am. Ant had said we should start the first event at 08.00. The first event of the day would be the long run starting with the U10 girls. Our lone representative, Marion, was nowhere to be seen. Andrew must have decided to sleep in a bit. The run of 800m started without her. Then when the girls were already half way in their run the Jonas’ family arrived. Marion was not to be left out and she started the run all on her own. The amazing thing to see was the way the Summies U14’s ran in with her at the end. I think that it was more than just Barbara who felt quite choked up with emotion seeing the support that Summies gives to their team. Marion’s effort scored points for the Summies U10 team.

Our U10 boys took off at a sprint but then the distance was a bit too much for them: we need to work on this for future. The U12 girls were next and we saw Ally sprint off in front. In fact it was quite funny to see the look on her face of: “What am I doing here in front?” Well she held her own to the turn and then was overtaken but a slight young girl. Despite efforts from rivals to run ahead of her, Ally managed to stay in second place to the end. It was about now that I realised that she is no longer my little girl but a real tough young lady who can hold her own at any event that Nippers can throw at her. The U12 boys and the both groups in the U14’s did very well and this set the scene for the rest of the day. There was a bit of a scare after the U12 boys finished in that Jonathan N collapsed and his parents took him home early to make sure that there was not more that needed attention. I believe that he is back on his feet again and will be back at Summerstrand as soon as he can.

We went through the Run Swim Run, Beach sprint relay finals, Malibu board individual, Beach sprint individual finals, Iron Nipper and finally the Flags finals. The U12 boys was quite a sight as we had 9 out of 10 boys in Summies kit. Flags is, to me, one of the toughest events; as this is an elimination event. And the Nippers know that at any time they may be eliminated in front of a group of parents and peers. But this is what builds character in our children and we can be as proud of them if they are eliminated in the very first round as if they make it through to the final two.

Today had been sunny and as we sat watching our young champions doing their thing at flags I would feel the sun on my legs. I knew that I would suffer the next day. But the joy of being on the beach and in the sea and the wonderful enjoyment that we get out of being with a group of Nippers would far outweigh any pain. The carnival ended at about 15.30 after we had loaded the boards and kit back into the trailer.

The final results?
U10 U12 U14

1 Plett SS SS
2 KB KB KB
3 SS Plett Plett

Top boy Matt McGillivray Kurt V Staden
Top girl Christie Vaughan Lauren Billson

So well done Summerstrand. You were first overall and held up your title as East Cape Champs! The U10’s may have not ended up first in their group but they contributed to the overall result and we are very proud of them for what they achieved over these two days. Especially their participation in the sea events.

Parents: if this was your first Carnival: we hope that you have enjoyed it and will be back on the beach to support your Nipper as often as possible. Should you wish to be part of the adult group in any way there is a need for parent participation as much as there is for the nippers to take part. Please approach your coach or one of us to talk about how you can contribute to the ongoing success of Nippers at Summerstrand.

Our U10 group has a long way to go to be a force to be reckoned with. But we will get there. The U12 group is very strong but have one weakness in that we need two or three more strong swimmers and boarders. The U14’s look like they have already built a strong team in all departments. Recruiting must be something that we all do all the time: talk Nippers to parents and children alike. Particularly if you know that they have a strength either in water or on their feet.

Thanks to Plett for setting it up and to parents and Nippers alike for all your support and encouragement.

Peter
3.12.2008.


NIPPERS
SUMMERSTRAND
12TH OCTOBER 2008.

SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS: NEWSLETTER

We are really back into the season.
Today we had a huge turnout from existing Nippers as well as a wonderful response to the work of Deon and others to promote Nippers for the new season.

Shareen, Andrew, Marius, Roger Lightening and I coached the U10’s and Micro Nippers. Shareen had 6 boys last week. This week we had 8 girls and about 14 boys. And they were really very keen once they got into the swing of the game. The morning started off with a stunning display from the whales and the dolphins as they helped to add something special to the morning at Summerstrand.

We started the U10’s and Micro Nippers off with a bit of running in the shallows and then did a bit of a warm up away from their parents.

Once they were starting to feel as if they belonged to a team we played a game of fetch the balls and put them into baskets. And in no time at all they were running in and out of the surf as if this was the most natural thing to do. We put them on body boards for a short while. This allowed the first timers to become accustomed to the boards.
We then had a bit of a relay event including running into the surf.
We finished the morning off with Flags and we can already identify a few of the youngsters who will be next year’s stars.

Claire and Charmaine had prepared some Hot Dogs and Ice Creams. Once we had the Nippers really good and tired we sent them off to enjoy a bit of a treat. Being in the back rooms of Nippers is really hard work. Thank you ladies for what you do here.

The Under 12’s were led by Deon, Alex, Hannes and I think had about 30 Nippers. The coaches were not at all soft with this group and soon had them out on Malibu boards and swimming around the buoys. Deon reports that there were at least 6 of the 10 newcomers who had never been that deep into the sea before. “It is really encouraging to be able to be part of the journey that these young people are taking into a life of beach surf proficiency.” Hannes commented: “We are going to have a few great sprint teams for the new season”.

The Under 14’s were coached by Brian, Carmell, Lauren and Varrin. Varrin coached the 6 newcomers while Brian handled the more experienced group of 12.

In total we had about 70 Nippers on the beach this Sunday.
It was great to see previous U14’s, who have now moved on to Juniors, assisting all round. They were seen to be active in the club house as well as on the beach. Thanks to them.

Thank you to the parents who were there today. You have made a wonderful decision to bring your children to the beach. Personally I can think of nothing better for a young person than to develop a healthy respect and yet an ability to overcome a fear of the surf. Two hours of beach fun is one of the best ways your child can spend a Sunday morning.

We hope to see you again next week. Please note that while the weather was great today, it is not always the case. But you will find coaches there every Sunday. 11.00am to 13.00pm.

We should have a program for the upcoming carnivals soon and will pass this information to you as soon as possible.

Level Tests: Before a Nipper is allowed to take part in a competition (competitions in Nippers are known as Carnivals) the youngster has to undergo a level test. This test comprises answering a few simple questions which we will coach the Nippers on in advance. They then complete a run swim run. We do this on Hobie beach and it is well supervised by coaches and safety officers. Parents have to supply us with a copy of the Nippers’ Birth Certificate as well as a signed indemnity form. New parents please hand these into Claire as soon as possible so that we can book a level test.