Nippers aim to start each Sunday morning at 10.00 am and try to finish by 11-30am. Children are trained to practice the skills to compete in the events, do some fitness training, play games and learn basic surf skills.
It is a fun environment encouraging all age groups to 'have a go' and have fun. Younger siblings of participating members are encouraged to join in the fun with an adult family member in a leisurely board paddle or "pull along" when the shallow water is smooth. The children are placed in their age groups under the supervision of an Age Manager but can move around a bit if they have friends they want to train with.
All children are limited to shallow water wading and paddling until they have been assessed as competent in swimming or wading a specified distance (distance varies from age to age). They are then given an 'S' Badge. The swimmers badge is then be sewn on to the right hand front of the child's bathers so officials can recognise their competence in the water. Nipper session run each week regardless of whether carnivals are being held unless otherwise advised.
All bathers are welcome to be used at Nippers but if you do wish to compete at a Carnival then Mentone colours (a minimum of a club cap) need to be purchased. All Mentone Merchandise is available for purchase during Sunday morning Nippers events. Juniors must apply sunscreen before the session begins and rash tops/t shirts and hats must be worn and water should be readily available for your child. In order to recognise club members using club facilities it is requested that club colours be worn when using equipment/facilities.
Life Saving Clubs have been competing against one another in a variety of events for nearly 100 years. Many of you will be aware of the traditional events such as the 'Reel and Line', March Pasts and Surf Boat races for seniors. However for Junior members the activities include: Flags - Sprint and dive for flags in the sand:
Relay - Team running and water activity races
Swim - Off shore distance swimming races
Wade - Running in shallow water
Board - Paddling distance event
The Club places age group teams into competitions held at other bayside and ocean clubs which are called Carnivals. Each team earns points each time they gain a placing which are then tallied. Most Nipper Carnivals are held on Sundays and all children aged 7 upwards are eligible to participate. The Club that ends the season with the most points wins the competition. Mentone prides itself on the joy of participating and regards any winning results as an added bonus.