Teen Programs

Programs for teens aged 13 - 17

Leaders in Training

Welcome to our Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program at Canoe and Kayak Camp! This program is designed for teens aged 14-16 who are interested in gaining valuable skills and experience working with children in a camp setting.

The LIT program runs Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (excluding holidays), and is located at the beautiful Glen Rouge Camp Ground. Our two week LIT program provides teens with the opportunity to shadow our experienced camp staff in both our Camp and Bantam programs, allowing them to gain practical experience working with children of different ages in various programs. We value positive attitudes, genuine interest in working with campers ages 6-13, respect, cooperation, and high levels of energy in our LITs, as these attributes contribute to a successful completion of the program.

Throughout the program, LITs will develop essential skills in leadership, teamwork, water safety, problem-solving, and effective communication. They will also be required to demonstrate appropriate levels of maturity, responsibility, competence, and enthusiasm to successfully complete the program. LITs will receive a self-evaluation questionnaire and a formal evaluation from our camp staff. Upon successful conclusion of the program, LITs will receive a Certificate of Completion, and we are happy to provide reference letters for future employment or volunteer positions upon request.

Please note that while this is a registered paid program, participants will not receive volunteer hours for their registered program hours. However, LITs are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before and after the program to help organize the day and assist with equipment, which can earn them volunteer hours. We also offer other opportunities and events where students can earn volunteer hours, and details can be found on our website. The cost of the program $452.00 per 10 day session and $406.80 per 9 day session.

Join our LIT program at Canoe and Kayak Camp and embark on a fulfilling journey of personal and professional growth while having fun in a beautiful outdoor setting!

Development

Introducing our Development program for aspiring paddlers aged 13 and older who are looking to begin their competitive training journey! Our Development program is designed for athletes who are newer to the sport of sprint canoe kayak and are looking to build their skills and experience in a supportive and structured training environment.

The Development program provides a comprehensive training program that focuses on developing fundamental paddling skills, building strength and endurance, and improving overall athleticism. Athletes in our Development program typically train year round up to 10 times a week, with a combination of on-water paddling sessions and supplementary training such as cardio, weights, and callisthenics.

The program runs during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, with practices held on weekday mornings and afternoons, as well as Saturday mornings. We utilize various locations, including the Rouge River, Frenchman’s Bay, and off-site locations in the GTA and Niagara region for our training sessions. 

Our experienced coaching staff works closely with athletes in our Development program to help them progress and reach their potential. As athletes gain more experience and skill, they will have the opportunity to move up to our High Performance program as they continue to pursue their competitive goals.

High Performance

Our High Performance program is for experienced paddlers aged 15 and older who have aspirations of elite level training and competition. The program is designed to help athletes reach their full potential and achieve their goals in the sport of sprint canoe kayak.

Athletes who join our High Performance program are typically those who have already gained significant experience and skills in paddling. The program is  rigorous, with athletes training up to 10 times a week year round. Our focus is on extensive paddling and on-water training, combined with cardio, weights, and callisthenics to build strength, endurance, and agility. During the winter season, we shift our training to include weights, ergs, and cardio such as running, and also make use of a nearby gym for indoor training.

Our Spring programs run from April to July, with practices held on weekday mornings and afternoons, as well as Saturday mornings. We make use of various locations, including the Rouge River, Frenchman’s Bay, and off-site locations in the GTA and Niagara region for training. 

Registration in our High Performance program requires approval from our Head Coach, and athletes are required to bring their own lifejackets and paddles.

Join our High-Performance program and take your paddling skills to the next level as you work towards your competitive goals and aspirations. Contact our Head Coach at coach@pickeringrouge.ca for registration information and get ready for an intense and rewarding training experience!

Have questions?