Academy Program
Our Academy program is targeted towards incoming U14+ athletes ready to take the next steps in their training! This program serves as a bridge between our introductory Development Program and the more intensive High Performance Program.
* REGISTRATION FOR ACADEMY 2023/24 OPENS Wednesday,
AUG 23rd at 9:00AM! *
Program overview
The Academy paddling program is an invitation-only year-round program for athletes beginning to focus on paddling as a high-level sport. Athletes train year-round to develop the physical, technical, and mental skills required for our sport. The program is specifically tailored to develop young athletes for future high-performance paddling, while recognizing the individual needs of young athletes and the importance of still participating in multiple sports.
Program requirements
While Academy athletes still may participate in other sports, a high level of commitment to the program is required. Athletes have a goal of winning local regattas and competing nationally and internationally. While not mandatory, Academy athletes should have or be in the process of getting their own equipment, including a boat and paddle.
training schedule
Academy trains before and after school and Saturday mornings. Generally, training times are M/W/F mornings 6:15-7:30AM, afternoons 4:15-6:00PM, and Saturdays 9:00-11:30AM, but a specific schedule will be sent each weekend for the following week.
off-season training
Academy paddlers are usually on water from April-November and cross-train from December through March. Our off-water programming includes weight training, running, swimming, yoga, technical work and analysis, soccer, cross-country skiing, and much more. Academy athletes may be invited to a March Florida camp with the high-performance athletes depending on age and ability.
start date & cost
Begins September 16, 2023, and runs through the end of August 2024. Total program cost for Academy U12/U14 is $2830.00, which is inclusive of all fees, as well as a discounted 2024 Summer Paddling Program fee. Total program cost for Academy U16 is $2335.00 (excludes Summer Paddling Program, as U16s are past the age limit). Note that the Academy athlete participation in the Summer Paddling Program will be individualized based on an athlete's age and ability.
Siblings registered in year-round programs receive 10% off the base program fee for the second sibling (and any subsequent siblings). After registering, please notify the Club Manager (info@maskwa.ca) that you qualify for the sibling discount and it will be provided to you.
payment details
Payment can be made either in full, or in monthly installments*. If paying in full, the total cost is paid at time of registration, via credit card.
For U12/U14, if paying in monthly installments (via automatic bank withdrawals), an initial deposit of $566.00 will be withdrawn on Sep 01, followed by 8 monthly installments of $283.00 to be withdrawn of the first of each month (Oct 01, 2023 to May 01, 2024 inclusive). For U16, the initial deposit is $467.00, and the monthly installments are $233.50.
*Note: We no longer accept EFTs.
Automatic bank withdrawals are the only option if paying in monthly installments. If choosing this option, our accountant will contact you with instructions on how to provide your banking details to Maskwa.
Join our Academy program
academy athlete registration
Academy is an invitation-only program. Registration takes place annually at the end of August, for the upcoming training year (September – August).
To register, go to the Register menu at the top of the page, and choose the program from the drop-down. (Note: if you do not see the program you are looking for, it means registration is currently not available).
cancellation policy & Missed payments
Participants of the Academy program may withdraw from the program at any time by notifying the Club Manager via email at info@maskwa.ca. All refunds will be subject to an early withdrawal fee. Those who have paid in full for the year will also be prorated based on length of attendance in the program. All U12/U14 participants who withdraw early also lose their guaranteed spot in the 2024 Summer Paddling program, and will need to register and pay separately for Summer Paddling. No refunds will be issued if a participant is required to leave as the result of a conduct concern.
For those paying in monthly installments, please note that any missed payments (i.e funds not available when our processor attempts to debit the account) will result in a $25.00 fee due immediately with that month’s payment. Any account that incurs more than 2 unavailable payments will no longer be allowed to pay monthly and the remainder of the program balance will be due immediately.
athlete resources
No matter what level you’re competing at – from Kearney Lake to World Juniors or National Team Trials- the Maskwa Code of Conduct board member is here for you.
Athletes should have a safe and respectful environment to train and compete in. For any athlete that would like to report or inquire about any issues you’re having (at any level) please reach out to our confidential Code of Conduct board member to discuss your issues.