The Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguards, also known as the Stingrays, are part of the Rehoboth Beach Patrol’s Junior Lifeguard Program, designed to instill confidence, physical fitness, and ocean awareness in children aged 5 to 16. This comprehensive program offers a unique opportunity for young beachgoers to learn essential water safety and surf rescue techniques, preparing them for a lifetime of safe and enjoyable experiences in the ocean.
What is the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program?
The Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program is a summer-long initiative that runs from mid-June to mid-August, with sessions held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 am to 9:00 am. The program is divided into three age groups: Stingrays (5-8), Dolphins (9-11), and Orcas (12+), each with tailored activities and instruction to meet the needs and abilities of the participants.
What are the Objectives of the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program?
The primary objectives of the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program are to:
- Increase self-confidence and physical conditioning in young beachgoers.
- Enhance ocean awareness and understanding of the beach environment.
- Teach water safety, first aid, and surf rescue techniques.
- Promote teamwork, communication skills, and leadership abilities.
What Activities are Included in the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program?
Each session of the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program includes a variety of activities designed to achieve the program’s objectives:
- Group stretching exercises
- Aerobic and anaerobic exercises
- Team games and activities to foster teamwork and communication
These activities are led by experienced lifeguards who possess exceptional communication skills and a deep understanding of the beach environment.
What Competitions are Offered for Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguards?
The Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program offers several competitive opportunities for participants:
- Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Olympics: An annual competition held in early August where junior lifeguards from various patrols compete in running and swimming events.
- Other Competitions: The program also includes other competitions and events throughout the summer, providing junior lifeguards with the chance to showcase their skills and abilities.
How to Register for the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program?
Registration for the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program is typically open until the program is full, and participants must register by a specified deadline. The fees for the program vary based on the number of children participating, ranging from $100.00 for one child to $320.00 for five children.
Where Can I Find More Information about the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program?
For more detailed information about the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program, you can visit the Rehoboth Beach Patrol’s website at rehobothbeachpatrol.com/junior-lifeguard-program or contact the program directly at [email protected].
It’s worth noting that similar junior lifeguard programs are also available in Dewey Beach and Delaware State Parks, offering additional opportunities for young beachgoers to develop their water safety and surf rescue skills.
Real-Life Incidents Involving Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguards
The Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program has been the stage for several notable events and achievements over the years:
- 2024 Junior Lifeguard Olympics: The 2024 Junior Lifeguard Olympics were held on July 29, with junior lifeguards from Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Delaware State Parks competing in various events.
- 2023 Junior Lifeguard Olympics: The 2023 Junior Lifeguard Olympics were held on August 7, with standout performances from Dewey Beach Patrol’s Malec Ksebe and Gus Lantz, as well as Rehoboth Beach Patrol’s Victoria Evans.
These events showcase the dedication and talent of the young participants, highlighting the impact of the Rehoboth Beach Junior Lifeguard Program in developing the next generation of water safety advocates and surf rescue experts.
References
- Cape Gazette. (2024). Junior lifeguard squads battle for Olympic glory in Rehoboth. Retrieved from https://www.capegazette.com/article/junior-lifeguard-squads-battle-olympic-glory-rehoboth/278862
- Town of Bethany Beach. (n.d.). Junior Lifeguards. Retrieved from https://www.townofbethanybeach.com/218/Junior-Lifeguards
- Rehoboth Beach Patrol. (n.d.). Junior Lifeguard Program. Retrieved from https://www.rehobothbeachpatrol.com/junior-lifeguard-program/
- Cape Gazette. (2023). Rehoboth Beach Patrol hosts Junior Lifeguard Olympics. Retrieved from https://www.capegazette.com/article/rehoboth-beach-patrol-hosts-junior-lifeguard-olympics/262620
- Town of Dewey Beach. (n.d.). Junior Lifeguarding Program. Retrieved from https://www.townofdeweybeach.com/departments/beachpatrol/JuniorLifeguarding