February 2001 : Starting with TSAC by Bev Entwistle
In October 2000, after months of ‘should or shouldn’t we’, my partner Paul, and I, decided to visit Trafford Sub Aqua Club at Urmston baths, to obtain details of Scuba diving. We were lucky to meet up with Neil Smitham, Chairman of TSAC. He was very helpful and informative, and we found out that there was to be a have-a-go-night for beginners in two weeks.
We turned up at the club two weeks later for the introductory meeting, where we received a warm welcome from the TSAC members and met up the other ‘brave souls’ who were there for the first time.
We were then taken to Urmston baths for our first attempt, unfortunately Paul could not go due to work commitments. I was introduced to Debbie Robinson who was to take me in, and who has been my instructor for the duration of my training. I was very nervous, but Debbie was very patient and explained what we would be doing. It turned out that it was not as daunting as I thought it might be, that was possibly due to Debbie’s calm approach and I thoroughly enjoyed my first experience.
That was four months ago, and although I experienced a few hiccups with my medical, I decided to persevere and carry on. I have now passed my first theory test, and the first pool assessment and hope to experience my first open water dive, at Capernwray at the end of March.
I would not have achieved this without the help of all the TSAC members who freely give up their time to give lectures, pool training and loaning of equipment for use at the pool.
I have not only found the training and lectures at TSAC second to none, the warmth and friendliness of all members has been brilliant. I have enjoyed the club so much I decided to offer my services as Social Secretary, which not only enables me to enjoy the numerous social functions they hold over the year, but I can also help to organise them!
