Op'eds

Shoot Down This Myth

Op'eds and commentaries

Words

Simon Pridmore

Images

Simon Pridmore

Photo by Peter Symes

A routine dive trip ended in tragedy for a newly certified, inexperienced diver. The novice did not die from illness or extreme conditions, but from a series of preventable oversights, misplaced assurances and long-standing assumptions about what beginners can safely manage. Simon Pridmore debunks these myths and offers practical advice on how to avoid such casual negligence.

2024 NOGI Recipient for Education Acceptance Speech

8 months ago By Chief minion

I’d like to thank the Academy for having me here tonight. I am truly honored to be here and to receive the NOGI for Education. I am humbled as you add my name to the ranks of those I consider my mentors, role models, and heroes.

I would not be here without the support and help of an army of giants. My early instructors and mentors; John Reseck, Jr., who also presented me with my medal this evening, John Wozny, and the Santa Ana College Dive Club, all of who guided and supported me as I became a dive instructor.

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“It was always, all about the training”

10 months ago By Farhat 'Raf' Jah

All through my diving career, I have been aware of the value of training, currency, and constant practice of safety drills. Too often, I have seen experienced divers get into serious difficulty because they failed to manage a minor issue. An issue that their training had equipped them to solve easily. Conversely, I have always had respect for the diver who dedicates his first dive on a liveaboard to a gentle skills practice.