Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe?

Yes - qualified coaches and pool staff are always on hand.

Is the Club run for profit?

No this is a voluntary club and help is required from all members and parents to ensure its future.

Do I have to be able to swim?

No, but you must feel comfortable in and under the water (you WILL capsize)

What happens when I turn up at canoe polo for the first time?

You will be taught how to sit in a kayak correctly and then how to fall out of it correctly!  Then we'll teach you how not to fall out of it!!  You'll probably be able to take part in a canoe polo game the same evening.

Do I need any special kit to get started at canoe polo sessions

You just need to turn up with swimwear and a towel - the club will supply everything else needed.

Can I come alone?

You must attend either with an adult (parent or friend) or as part of a team accompanied by an adult. Please call Anne Webb, our membership secretary first to discuss.

Why must an adult be present?

Our coaches need to focus on coaching so need extra adults to assist with running the sessions and to ensure safety.  Adults who are responsible for teams or individuals must be aware of any medical conditions of the juniors in their care and are responsible for their good behaviour.

What is the clubmark logo on the home page and why is it there?

It is an Award from Sport England recognising that the club is open to all, is safe and well run and has an active programme for the benefit of the community.

Do you issue membership cards?

Once you start paying subs, you become a member. We do have cards that are only issued on request (they normally end up soggy in bottom of a bag). You can get discount in certain Canoe retailers with the card. Ask the membership secretary if you want a card. Click on 'contact us' at the bottom of the page to send an e-mail.  See below for BCU Membership.

Is the club insured?

Yes - we are fully insured for 3rd party indemnity.

Do you go on away day trips?

Yes, many are organised throughout the year - see the Events Coming Up page.

Do I belong to the British Canoe Union if I join TCKC?

Our club is affiliated with the British Canoe Union which means you all have basic BCU membership. Members pay a lower test fee for 3 & 4 Star tests and if you are taking part in BCU events at entry level (eg slalom division 4) you do not need to pay the insurance fee. (If you are promoted to Division 3 slalom you will need to take out comprehensive membership.) If you are likely to be involved in these activities please ask the Membership secretary for a membership card.

What is the difference between a canoe and a kayak?

A canoe is paddled with a single bladed paddle and originates from the Canadians who initially used their carved out logs.A kayak is paddled with a double bladed paddle and originates from the Eskimos who wrapped themselves warm and tight inside their boats using skins to insulate themselves from the cold.

What's the best kit to wear for whitewater paddling in autumn/winter?

To totally keep out the water, the answer is a full drysuit..... but it is costly and also a total pain if you need to go to the loo!

A good alternative is kit that comes apart in the middle as follows:

You need two things:

1. Thermal layer for warmth.
Choose something that won't retain water (beware of merino wool - it has great thermal properties, but retains too much water for watersports use)

2. Windproof layer
If you choose a windproof layer with thermal lining, it will probably be too hot for summer.
So separate layers give greater flexibility.

This is a good combination:

Thermal base layer: Reed thermals - about £20 per item
Windproof layer: Top - Whitewater Cagoule - many Club members find the Reed whitewater cag @ £99 performs well and is very comfortable. Bottom - Dry trousers

Little luxuries:
. . . if you get cold feet, www.chillcheater.com Reed fleece socks approx £8
. . . if you get cold hands, neoprene mitts with cut-away palms approx £14

I am doing DofE Bronze this year and I would be interested in doing the basic refereeing course as my skill section. Could you let me know how to go about doing this skill please?

You need to take part in a training course which we have designed and run ourselves at Tandridge Pool. You will need to learn new polo rules each week

Look at the website www.tandridgecanoe.co.uk for an idea of what you'll need to learn. There's a download of referee rules on the Useful Docs page. There's a set of slides on the Home Page

There's not enough time to do 3 months between now and Easter, but I suggest that you start soon and that you continue from Sep to end Nov next season. You will need to attend on the nights that you don't play polo so that you can referee. If you learn everything and turn up regularly to referee, then you can get your book signed off in December. There are two tests at the end - a written paper and a practical assessment.