Sackawa is a non-profit paddling club on First
Lake in Lower Sackville. Established in 1980, our club offers youth the opportunity to learn paddle sport in a safe and fun environment. Our goal is to develop world-class paddlers with a healthy, competitive attitude, that will excel in both sport and life.

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Sackawa aims to impart skills development in a physically demanding sport, within the context of social, relaxed and ‘fun’ activities. Athletes are encouraged to build skills to compete in local, national, and even internationally competitions. Many of Sackawa’s High Performance athletes have gone on to represent Nova Scotia at the Canada Games, and represent Canada at Junior & Senior World events.

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Summer Program

Our full summer program is the best way to spend a summer on the lake, hanging out with friends and becoming an athlete in the sport of canoe/kayak. (Registration Below)

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U10

The main focus for this age group is being active, and having fun while working to develop balance and technical skills. Athletes will also learn how to respect equipment, including how to carry and put away boats/paddles safely, walking (not running) on the docks and in boat bays. Athletes will learn respect for their fellow athletes and fair play practices for their competitors. U10 paddlers will be on the water twice a day; once in their own kayak or canoe, and again in a war canoe. If the weather isn’t cooperating for outdoor activities, our coaches adapt with dryland or indoor games and activities. 

Our U10 paddlers also have the opportunity to take part in race days, known as Regattas. These days are a fun introduction to competition. Regatta participation is regarded as important and mandatory. If it is not possible for your child to attend a regatta, we kindly ask that the coach be made aware via email in advance. 

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U12 - U16

Paddlers in U12/U14/U16 have three scheduled sessions per day which can include dryland training, soccer, war canoe, and small boats white water, polo and dragon boat. Those who are new to paddling will learn the sport through the FUNdamentals. We will emphasize safety and care for equipment all in a positive learning environment. Experienced paddlers will refine these skills and work toward racing and high performance training.

Regatta participation is considered mandatory. However, in the event your athlete is unable to attend, we ask that you please let your coach know via email in advance.

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High Performance

Paddlers aged U14 and up, who are ready to take their training and competition to the next level, may be invited by the Head Coach to train with the High Performance Group. This group practices twice a day with the goal of racing at the national and international level. 

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​​Adult Training Performance

This program is for competitive athletes who were formerly in the high performance program. It was designed as a way of balancing post secondary education with work life with high performance training. Schedules are tailored to the individual athlete with long term goals in mind.

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Two Week Day Camp

(Ages 8 and Up)

Our two week camp programs are for any youth aged 8 and up. These camps are intended to give participants an opportunity to try paddling to see if they would be interested in the sport of canoe/kayak.  There will also be lots of other physical activities, like swimming, running, soccor, and gym exercises.

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Paddle Ability

This program is aimed at introducing athletes with physical or intellectual disabilities to the sport of Canoe-Kayak. Formerly known as PaddleALL, it has programs for all ages and skill levels. No experience is necessary. Come out and enjoy the freedom of being on the water. Tuesday, Thursday at 6pm and Sunday afternoon (TBD).

(3 days per week for 1.5 hours)

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​Masters Program

Masters athletes must be 25 years of age and older. Masters practices will take place Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening at 6pm. There is a coach provided for basic balance and skills. There is also the option to join an established group of masters athletes who train for competition. They are a great group and very welcoming and encouraging to newcomers.

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Anyone who enjoys fun physical activities, being on the water and learning about the sport should consider joining us.

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Spring Paddling

Are your paddling skills feeling rusty? Join Spring Training at Sackawa. We offer a two-month after school program, Monday-Friday from 4-6 pm for returning paddlers looking to get a jump start on their summer of paddling. Cost $155 per month for May or June or you can pick to register for both months for $300. Start shaking off that rust on May 1, 2023.

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Year-long Paddling

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