Introductory Clinics must be taught by experienced coaches with strong leadership to give confidence to new open water swimmers. Coaches must be able to give instruction on open water safety, show swimmers how to sight, demonstrate basic open water skills and show confidence in all conditions. It is important to keep this class fun and tuned to the ability of those attending. Up to 10 swimmers will be accommodated by two coaches. Coaches are strongly encouraged to be CPR certified within the last 2 years and MUST attend a CIBBOWS group leader training before the start of each season.
Group swims should be led by any experienced open water swimmer who demonstrates strong leadership, positive attitude, and love of the ocean. This program moves at a medium pace, swimming parallel to the shore and pausing at each jetty for a safety check. Depending on conditions of the day most swims will be approximately 1 mile. Swimmers will be expected to swim freestyle for at least 200 yards without stopping and slower paced participants are encouraged to use fins. Coaches are strongly encouraged to be CPR certified within the last 2 years and MUST attend a CIBBOWS group leader training before the start of each season.
Note: The role of a Wait List Leader is for the last minute replacement of a Primary Leader. The Wait List leader should be ready and on the beach at the assigned time if an unforeseeable circumstance arises- last minute illness, a transportation issue- as well as to facilitate the Wait List if we have more than 16 participants at the start time of the program. Wait List leaders will be notified at 10 am whether they are needed for the upcoming clinic/swim.
By signing-up to be a Coach or Group Leader you are indicating that you are competent to deliver the assigned program. You are also indicating that you will do your best to follow the CIBBOWS Group Leader Cheat Sheet, to provide a high quality and positive experience to our community, and you will do so in a respectful manner consistent with CIBBOWS goals of inclusion.
We reserve the right to cancel a clinic or group swim for inclement weather in which the lifeguards deem swimming unsafe, or if there is not enough enrollment to make it financially feasible to hold the group.
