Embracing young divers (aged 12 and up) offers a range of benefits to existing members and clubs. Plus, the inclusion of younger people will be an important step toward ensuring the long-term sustainability and vitality of BSAC’s community of clubs.
Many of the tools, techniques and adjustments you make to start appealing to young people will also help you grow your club more generally – things like clear communication and a sense of fun will help more of your club members feel more engaged more of the time – they’ll be doing more diving!
Here are some reasons why clubs and members will benefit from enthusiastically welcoming young people, including those under 18.
1. Revitalised energy
Young divers inject new enthusiasm and vitality into clubs. Their passion for exploration and learning can rekindle the spirit of adventure, invigorating the entire club. Attracting more young people will bring in new members, participants and volunteers across all ages, as their parents/carers and other family members may also want to get involved.
2. Mentorship opportunities
Older members can take on mentorship roles, sharing their extensive diving experience and wisdom with younger divers. This can foster a sense of purpose and fulfilment among more senior members.
3. Leadership development
Encouraging young divers to assume leadership roles provides opportunities for older members to pass on leadership skills and knowledge (and ultimately, their roles!). Through a range of leadership experiences our young people can acquire these skills and learn behaviours which not only develop them as individuals but as drivers for change for others.
Clubs have a life-cycle so young people are the future leaders of your club!
4. Learning exchange
A diverse membership offers opportunities for skill sharing and learning. Young divers can introduce technology and social media skills for example, while older members can offer decades of diving expertise.
5. Enhanced reputation locally
Being accessible and providing positive enjoyable experiences to young people will enhance your club’s reputation locally and encourage people to promote your offer, including through word of mouth.
6. Sense of contribution
By participating in the development of young divers, older members can experience a profound sense of contribution to the sport and BSAC’s future. They will be playing a pivotal role in passing on the diving legacy.
7. Wider funding opportunities
Local and national funding bodies tend to support projects working with young people gaining positive experiences. Here’s an example from a funder of what they want to achieve:
Happy, safe and healthy young people, with solid networks of support, who feel in control of their personal circumstances and aspirations.
In summary, recruiting and engaging young divers can benefit clubs and members by revitalising energy, enabling leadership development, facilitating a learning exchange and providing a sense of contribution to the sport's future.
It's a win-win situation for divers of all ages!
