Class Logistics
Kayak Paddle Clinic
Fox Cities YMCA-Greenville: Two classes, each meeting for two sessions, from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM on Thursday evenings:
Class size limited to 10; registration through Fox Cities YMCA.
Fox Cities YMCA-Appleton: Two classes, each meeting for two sessions, from 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM (updated hours) on Sunday afternoons:
Class size limited to 10; registration through Fox Cities YMCA.
City of Appleton (Erb Pool): Summer schedule pending.
Kayak Essentials Class
We’ve “paused” our 4-session Kayak Essentials Classes for now, and will re-evaluate options to re-introduce it each year.
Rolls & Rescues
Fox Cities YMCA-Appleton: One class, meets in two sessions, from 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM (updated hours) on Sunday afternoons:
- Class E: March 6 and 20 (skipping March 13)
Class size limited to 10; registration through Fox Cities YMCA.
Open Pool
Open pool sessions will resume concurrent with our 2022 class schedule at the Appleton YMCA, from 1:30 – 2:45 PM (updated hours) on those Sundays we hold scheduled classes.
Kayak Classes
(NOTE – The Appleton YMCA classes and open pool schedule have been updated.)
Our class offerings in 2021 were very limited due to pandemic concerns. For 2022, we will resume our indoor classes, but in a different format. We’ve revised our standard 4-session Kayak Essentials Class to a 2-session format that maintains a strong focus on fundamental skills. This allows us to offer more, but smaller-size class opportunities.
We need four essential ingredients to deliver classes: 1) a host venue with facilities and lifeguards; 2) insurance coverage to meet the requirements of the host venue and NEWP, Inc., 3) qualified instructors available to provide instruction, and 4) people willing to participate in the classes! We’re hopeful that this format will strengthen the mix of those ingredients.
Our two-session Kayak Paddle Clinic covers a solid introductory curriculum, again mixing a short classroom session to discuss essentials that are difficult to present in a pool setting with in-pool instruction to learn wet exits, balance drills, basic paddle strokes and an introduction to assisted rescues.
Registration is available through the referenced YMCA or city websites.
You do not need to be a member of the YMCA or NEWP, Inc., or city resident to participate in our classes – all you need is your swimsuit and a smile!
Kayak Classes Overview / Background Information
Learn basic paddling skills, bracing strokes, rolls and rescues from our American Canoe Association-certified instructors. Kayaking in waves or rapids is serious business, so you need to know the proper techniques and use the necessary equipment to keep you and your group safe. Those who complete the class may join a summer student outing. We offer:
Kayak Paddle Clinic: Introductory class, covering boat types, PFDs, spray skirts and paddles with instruction in wet exits, basic paddle strokes and an introduction to assisted rescues. These classes will be offered in 2022 – see the class schedule to the left. NEWP 2022 Kayak Paddle Clinic.
Kayak Essentials: Comprehensive class for people who have not had prior kayak skills instruction or would like to expand their skill set. Each session is split between classroom and in-pool instruction with a focus on skill development and safety, including wet exits, bow rescues, basic strokes, bracing, solo and assisted rescues. NEWP 2020 Kayak Essentials Outline.
Rolls & Rescues: Participants must first complete the Kayak Paddle Clinic, Kayak Essentials Class or have equivalent training approved by the instructor. This class teaches a variety of boat re-entry or rescue techniques and Eskimo roll skills. Rolls and Rescues Outline.
Class Fees: Fee information is available at the Fox Cities YMCA and City of Appeton websites. The fee you pay is split between the host organization to cover the cost of the facility use and lifeguards, and by NEWP to purchase and maintain boats and other equipment. All instructors and assistant instructors provide their time and talent on a voluntary basis. The club currently maintains a fleet of nearly 50 whitewater and sea kayaks, plus all the assorted support equipment required to go with the boats.
How to Dress: Swim wear, aqua socks or appropriate footwear. A synthetic T-shirt or lightweight neoprene is optional for comfort in the pool. Shorts or leggings are recommended over regular swim suits that are “bikini style” to avoid abrasion from climbing in and out of the boats. Nose clips will be available to use. Boats, paddles and all other gear required for the class are provided by NEWP.
Registration: Available online through the host YMCA, in person or through their online registration process. The classes are open to both YMCA members and non-members – all are encouraged to participate in the classes.
Available at the downtown Appleton YMCA for NEWP members and students on the same Sundays as when classes are scheduled at that location. Open pool sessions may also be scheduled in Green Bay. Current-year students are entitled to free open pool participation. Other current NEWP/ ACA members may participate for $5 (Appleton) or $10 (Broadview) per session.
NEWP boats and gear are available for use or participants may bring their own boats and gear into the pool if it is clean and free of debris. These general guidelines must be followed during open pool sessions:
- Paddlers who are socializing or resting should either leave the pool or move to the side to allow other paddlers room to practice.
- Be aware that the host facility life guard has ultimate control of the pool area; lifeguard instructions must be followed immediately at all times.
- Personal boats and gear brought into the pool must be clean prior to entry, which includes removal of float bags for the pool session.
- Boats must be in the water when entered, not “seal-launched” off the pool deck.