seahunter once bubbled...
While we're on the subject, may I suggest that clubs ought to openly support the stores if not even choose a store sponsor to give them the services as described above. Both the club and the store would benefit. Many clubs are afraid to associate with a store for fear they'll be considered unfair. What bunk!! The club executive should make a fair, unbiased assessment of which store would best service the club and make that store it's partner. The practice of naming 3 stores for their students to choose from so they don't appear to be promoting a single store is simply unfair if not stupid. The executive has the knowledge to choose a good store and has the responsibility to take care of the new diver in the club. The new diver meanwhile has no idea which of the 3 to go to. Make an informed decision and go for it! If it turns out the store was not the best choice for the club, change it!!
If some senior members don't like the choice they can go to their own favorite store. Club members don't have to go to the club sponsor - it's simply the best choice by the executive for new divers to work with. That store will also be much more likely to support the club in the ways I've mentioned above.
Clubs and stores are not competitors (or shouldn't be!) - they should be partners in promoting scuba and ensuring it's continued fun and safety.
It works for me and for the clubs I've helped.
) and I noticed that some skills could use some polishing to get back to speed.. So I joined my LDS on one of their pool sessions.. Mainly it was just to get used to gear that I hadn't worn in months.. Like my doubles.. Besides.. I got to meet a new generation of divers in the pool.
