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Community Corner

Junior Lifeguard Tryouts in Full Swing

Few tryout dates are left for Imperial Beach Junior Lifeguard hopefuls.

Every year, more than 100 new candidates, slathered in sunscreen and dressed in rash guards, head to the Imperial Beach Junior Lifeguards (IBJG) program tryouts, but only those who complete the rigorous physical test make the cut.

Applicants are typically between 9 to 17 years old and must pass a three-part swim test consisting of a nonstop 100-yard swim or a full lap around an Olympic-sized pool. Next, they must swim 10 yards under water and then withstand five minutes of treading water or sustaining a vertical position while keeping the head above water. The first part alone might be exhausting for most adults, but for young water rescue hopefuls, it comes with the territory.

The IBJG program is one of three prestigious programs in the South Bay (along with Silver Strand and Coronado) that is designed to teach youth to respect and appreciate the ocean environment, while training to be a lifeguard and learn first-aid procedures.

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Capt. Robert Stabenow heads the IBJG, along with a staff of U.S. Lifesaving Association certified professionals that complete 24 hours of basic life support training each year to renew their certification.

“The program is a great opportunity for youth to learn about beach safety and ocean safety. It helps make a safer community and the program is usually a feeder system for professional lifeguards,” Stabenow said.

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The program includes four weeks of training separated into sessions, or blocks, that are spread out through June and July. Tuition is from $300 to $400 depending on the registration date, with some financial aid available for applicants whose families need assistance and payment plans. Graduates of the IBJG program who at least 15 years old, move on to the captain program and assist with IBJG training.

Only three tryouts are left to be considered for 2011:

  • May 9 starting at 6 p.m. at the Mar Vista High School pool.
  • May 28 at 8 a.m. at the Brian Bent Memorial Aquatics Complex.
  • May 30 at 6 p.m. at the MVHS pool.
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