NORTH BATTLEFORD — The numbers are in and Michelle Horncastle, Innovation Plex general manager with the City of North Battleford, says the aquatic centre has been a popular place.
“The Battlefords aquatic centre has experienced a successful spring and summer season in 2024, with user numbers significantly up compared to the last few years,” she says.
“Between April and June, the centre welcomed over 19,000 visitors, reflecting a strong community interest in aquatic activities. During the same period, 431 participants registered for spring swimming lessons.”
Horncastle says that as lake season winds down, the recreation venue anticipates higher numbers.
“Historically, our busiest period tends to be from mid to late September through the end of May, when people transition from outdoor water activities to indoor facilities. We’re looking forward to welcoming more visitors as the cooler weather approaches and the community seeks out year-round aquatic opportunities.”
Horncastle also acknowledges that summer programs also saw increased participation, with a total of 334 children enrolled in three sets of weekday swim lessons — up from 210 participants last summer.
“This growth in numbers highlights the centre's commitment to offering valuable aquatic programs to the community.”
Several programs were introduced at the BAC including two water polo clinics, hosted by Water Polo Saskatchewan. One of these clinics was aimed at children who had completed Swimmer 4, and a second clinic was held exclusively for participants in the summer day camp adjacent to the field house.
Dive Saskatchewan also made their annual trip to North Battleford for a learn-to-dive clinic.
“These two programs would not be possible without the support of Saskatchewan Lotteries and the grant funding they provide for these provincial sport organizations to hire staff and have them offer these programs across Saskatchewan,” acknowledges Horncastle.
In addition to these programs, a new four-day Swim & Splash Day Camp was launched, which combines swimming lessons with water activities that promote movement skills, teamwork and sportsmanship. The camp includes a 60-minute lesson to improve aquatic skills, followed by instructor-led games and activities that emphasize water safety and fun. There are plans to offer it again during the Christmas break.
“The Battlefords aquatic centre is the largest indoor swimming facility in the region, providing a range of aquatic programs and activities for the community year-round,” Horncastle says.
Horncastle praises the team of lifeguards and swim instructors at the centre, but also admits staffing can be a challenge, particularly during the fall and winter months.
“Over half of our current aquatic staff are post-secondary students who work primarily over school breaks and are now heading back to school outside the Battlefords. This seasonal departure often creates a gap in staffing, which limits the number of programs we can offer during the busier months.”
Seeking to address this issue, the centre is focused on year-round recruitment and additional training for junior staff.
“Between June and August, we welcomed nine new aquatic staff members, many of whom are currently assistant lifeguards. Our priority now, is to train these new team members in our facility's operations and support them in becoming certified swim instructors and full lifeguards through the National Lifeguard course. Another focus is to recruit and train part-time and casual daytime staff so we can bring back school swim lessons.”
A wide range of programming caters to all ages and skill levels at this indoor pool facility. The upcoming fall and winter, popular favorites will be brought back along with several new events and activities.
Fall swim lesson registration opens Sept. 13. Back by popular demand, hosted for children aged 8-12, is Kids Night Out which includes supervised pool times, games and a pizza dinner, Sept. 20 and Nov. 29.
Similar to the Kids Night Out, there will be a Teen Takeover offered Nov. 22 for those ages 13-18 in which staff will provide a fun, relaxed atmosphere just for teenagers.
A Halloween-themed event featuring a spooky swim and haunted house is slated for Oct. 25.
Swim with Santa is a festive event where families can join Mr. and Mrs. Claus in the pool. That’s right, Santa in the pool for photos and holiday fun. This event is slated for Dec. 15.
A four-day swim and splash day camp is set for Dec. 30 to Jan. 3, offering swim lessons and water activities designed to enhance movement skills, teamwork and water safety.
Two Bronze Medallion courses are available in September and October, with Bronze Cross offered from Nov. 4-8 and Nov. 12-15. Additionally, Swim for Life is slated for Dec. 30, 31, Jan. 2 and 3. These advanced training courses help participants develop lifesaving skills and prepare for leadership roles in water safety.
Battlefords Co-op Aquatic Centre is also home to the Battlefords Scuba Club offering courses and recreational diving on Sunday mornings. Aquafit and River Run classes are offered along with this pool being home to the Battlefords Orcas Swim Club, a competitive swimming program for children, and a master's swim program for adults.
Horncastle also lets residents know that Sept. 9-11, participants can draw a rubber ducky for discounts of 15 per cent or more on calendar memberships. This will be the last sale of the year and the next sale will not be until March 2025.
“We’re always looking to expand our offerings to meet the community's needs and ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Battlefords aquatic centre,” says Horncastle.
