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Katalla on the river Mohaka , New Zealand . Photo : Matthew Roxburgh
6 . Spend time teaching basic skills
I was terrible at kayaking when I started , and nothing came naturally to me ; every skill took me ten times longer to learn than it did for others . I remember one beginners ’ trip on a grade 2 section , and I swam every time I crossed an eddy line and began to feel like I was burdening my group . Everyone else seemed to find it so easy .
I remember this lovely woman , Katalla , coming over to me . I thought she was like a goddess ; she was so good at kayaking . She buddied up to me and said , ‘ let ’ s teach you how to get out of this eddy ’. She spent an hour or two teaching me to cross an eddy line . I hadn ’ t realised that you were meant to do things like edge ! I
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had gone down all these little rapids and didn ’ t even know how to cross an eddy line ! This day was seven years ago , yet I fondly remember that trip . She chose to spend that time helping me , and I will always be grateful to her and everyone who has ever tried to help me learn how to kayak .
I often think of Katalla and all those who have helped me become a better paddler and what an impact they have had . I want to give that support back . Don ’ t underestimate the impact you can have on those people just starting . Making people feel supported to practice new skills is so important , and that reassurance that someone is not a burden is so important .
7 . Role models
I know , I said six tips ! However , here is a cheeky extra one just for you . Having role models for people to relate to and aspire to is so important . If people don ’ t have those in the club already , you can direct them to role models outside the club . These role models can take all manner of forms .
Encourage new paddlers to attend events both within and outside of the club , so they meet more people . Have club film nights or invite guest speakers to showcase the incredible things that can be achieved in this sport . Connecting new paddlers with a mentor or coach is also valuable , and this could be within the club or beyond .
The paddling community is incredible , and helping someone to connect with and become a part of that community can help to turn someone ’ s hobby into a lifelong part of who they are . Role models are a big part of that !
Beth Morgan paddling in Norway . She was my coach for the week and remains one of my biggest role models in kayaking . Photo : Del Read