WAVpaddling Instructor

Dan

My interest in paddling began in 1992 when I moved to, and began teaching Physical Education in Flin Flon. Their exceptional and award winning outdoor education programs had me tripping with all our grade 6-8 students at least three trips a year. In my final year in Flin Flon I spent more than 20 days on trips in wilderness settings with my students.

Starting our family we headed back to the city in 1999. With a busy young family it was difficult for my wife and I to get out canoeing together as much as I liked so I took up kayaking. Hitting my first surf while playing at one of the rapids on a 3 day Manigotagan kayak trip, I was stoked to find out more about this fantastic idea of surfing in a kayak. A few courses, and many practice hours later I found myself having a jaw dropping experience turning the corner at Sturgeon Falls at Nutimik Lake and seeing the sheer power and intensity of the water. The sheer magnitude of the falls made me feel more alive than ever. I was hooked.

As a way to get more involved with the paddling community, I began volunteering with the Manitoba Whitewater Club and then moved on to instructing. I completed my instructor's course with Mick Lautt and Phil Hossack in 2006. Since then I have been teaching flatwater courses and roll clinics, as well as assisting on river courses. I truly enjoy the energy of the kayaking community. The people I have met both as a student, instructor or fellow paddler come from all walks of life, young and old and I have learned from them all. One thing we all share is our love for the wilderness. Kayakers want to take time to be immersed in natural surroundings. My goal when I am teaching is to provide my students with the skills and confidence to have a safe paddling experience, while instilling respect for our lakes and rivers.

  • Bachelor of Physical Education and Rec. Studies (B.P.E.) and Bachelor of Education (B. Ed)
  • Currently teaching Outdoor Education in River East School Div.
  • Began kayaking 1998
  • Flatwater instructor since 2006
  • 40 hr. Sirius Wilderness First Aid - 2008