Hodgie’s News…December 2018
Hi there!
In an effort to get a little more information out to families, I’ve now secured this spot on our website. Please check back here from time to time. Perhaps weekly (but no promises). Here is a snap shot of what has been happening during this first half of the season…..
New Boards
It has been great to see our little guys in the water on boogie boards which the club bought this year
Over The Hill
At “Over The Hill” last week, many Dee Why parents and Age Managers gave their assistance moving gear around and packing up etc. Pretty impressive so Thank you ALL…..and despite water being inaccessible, I think we all had a great morning shared with new friends. Here’s Santa braving the heat with “star” U12, Hannah Hodge.
Nippers VIP Guests
Many thanks to those who came to the club to share some thoughts on our activities at Nippers. Injured Wallaby (& ex NCC Nipper) Reece Hodge generously gave his time and openly of himself. It was fascinating to learn that even at the very peak of his sport, Reece kept referring to having fun and being with his mates – just like us starting out at Nippers. Check out this session that Reece spoke about.
New Nipper Activities
We have been talking about how we could mix things up to make Nippers more fun each week. so last week we did the Fun Fast Fives where Nippers could choose their own adventure. There were some big fans (and some bugs to iron out!). Other ideas which we hope to execute in 2019 include: Twilight Nippers (Saturday arvo for a chance to socialise after and have a whole Sunday free), Parents vs Nipper Day, and relays mixing up events and age groups ….watch this space!
Carnivals
We also spoke about how Nippers get introduced to carnivals. This can be just for the experience or to get a taste for competition and as Nippers find their way, there are lots of opportunities to enjoy carnivals without being the next Grant or Lisa (showing my age?). Warning for newcomers: Just like parenthood itself, nothing can prepare you for the special hell and awesome heaven that carnival days bring!
Life Members Lunch
Was honoured to be invited to the Life Member luncheon in the club last Sunday. What a great bunch of characters who have given hundreds of years of volunteer service to help bring the club to where it is today – and what a terrific measure that our club maintains connection, respect and appreciation. (2Photos – one of Wiz (Alex Wye) who is our director of surf lifesaving and Billy (name from Dave) who turns 100 in September)
3 Points Challenge
Finally we had the annual 3 Points Challenge and Ocean swim on December the 1st which was again a huge success. There were 5 events for the first time this year including a Nipper Hydrothon for 8-14years. A wonderful community event run solely by our members and many of you – thank you for being part of our club. Next year this event will take place on December 7th 2019 so pop it in your diaries now!!
