Beginner Springboard Diving Program
Discover the thrill of the springboard!
This 6-week progressive program is your child's first step into the exhilarating world of diving. Led by Coach Emily, this curriculum focuses on building fundamental technique, ensuring safety, and boosting the confidence needed to succeed on the board.
Program Focus:
Board Safety & Control: Mastering safety rules and proper board etiquette.
The Approach & Takeoff: Developing the crucial rhythm and timing of the hurdle, and executing the powerful takeoff necessary to gain height and controlled rotation.
Body Positions & Entries: Mastering the three required body positions in the air: Straight (A), Pike (B), and Tuck (C).
Skill Progression: Moving from basic jumps and front entries to controlled dives and flips, setting the foundation for more advanced skills.
Class Structure:
Our one-hour session is structured for optimal learning and engagement, divided into three key segments.
- Dryland - We start out of the water with dynamic stretching, conditioning, and specific dryland drills. This segment is crucial for developing the strength, flexibility, and muscle memory needed for controlled aerial movement.
- Board Work - We then move to the springboard for focused, personalized instruction. Students apply the dryland work directly to their hurdle, and take off under the coach's supervision.
- Game & Review - The session concludes with a fun, group-based game or activity in the water, followed by a quick review of the skills learned that day.
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Intermediate Springboard Diving Program
This intermediate-level class is designed for young divers ages 8–13 who have either completed the Beginner Diving Program or have prior springboard diving experience. Coach Emily provides supportive, encouraging instruction to help each athlete continue growing in confidence, skill, technique, and body control.
Program Focus/Class Structure:
Divers will build on the dryland drills, stretching, approaches, and line-ups introduced at the beginner level, strengthening their fundamentals and preparing them for more advanced skills. As they progress, athletes will begin learning their voluntary dives, including:
Front dive
Back dive
Back dive half twist
Inward dive
Reverse dive
Each participant will receive positive, individualized coaching to help them advance safely at their own pace while having fun and feeling proud of their progress.
This class is ideal for children who are ready for a new challenge and excited to expand their diving skills in a fun, structured environment.
Instructor Information
Meet Your Coach: Emily Stotesbery
Emily is a Milford resident and proud mom excited to coach the next generation of divers!
She brings a wealth of competitive experience to the pool, including her time as an NCAA Division I Diver at Penn State and as an AAU All-American. Emily is a former New England Champion and All-State honoree, with multiple championships earned during diving career.
As a coach, Emily uses this expertise to prioritize strong fundamentals, technique, and—most importantly, fun! She is dedicated to fostering a positive, encouraging, and safe environment where every child can grow their confidence on the board.
General Information
Who Should Register:
This class is ideal for children ages 6–11 who are comfortable and confident in the water and eager to learn the fundamentals of springboard diving.
Prerequisite:
For safety and success, participants must be able to swim independently from the area below the diving board to the pool’s edge without assistance.
Location:
McCann Natatorium, 70 Park Circle, Milford, CT 06460
Cancellation Information
- In the event of inclement weather, the cancellation decision will be made 2 hours before the activity begins.
- Cancellation Information will be posted on MilfordRecreation.com
- If the program is canceled an email and/or text message will be sent to all registered participants.
- Please be sure to update your Household Account with your current contact information and that you opt to receive cancellation information.