Petrie Island Canoe Club is a community-based paddling club focused on safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences on the water. We welcome paddlers of different ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, from those trying canoeing for the first time to athletes looking to develop their technique and confidence. Safety comes first in everything we do, supported by qualified coaches, clear expectations, and a shared responsibility to look out for one another.
Beyond safety, our goal is to create a positive, respectful environment where people can learn, improve, and enjoy being on the water. We value clear communication, consideration for others, and a culture free from harassment or discrimination. By setting and meeting these expectations together, we ensure that every member can feel supported, challenged, and proud to be part of the club.
What you need to know before participating
Informed Consent, Assumption of Risk, Release of Liability and Waiver of Claims
Paddling activities involve risks, and injuries can occur even when safety rules are followed. By registering, you acknowledge these risks, confirm that you (or your child) are fit to participate, agree to follow safety rules, and accept that Petrie Island Canoe Club is not responsible for injuries, losses, or damages; a parent or legal guardian must agree on behalf of participants under 18.
2026 Concussion Code of Conduct for Athletes and Parents/Legal Guardians
All Petrie Island Canoe Club athletes and parents are required to read, understand, and sign the Concussion Code of Conduct, confirming their commitment to safety and fair play. The code emphasizes concussion awareness, honest reporting, respect for others, and following medical guidance to ensure a safe recovery and return to sport.
Code of conduct
The canoe club is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and positive paddling environment where everyone can enjoy being on the water. By following shared expectations around safety, respect, participation, teamwork, and care for others and the environment, members help ensure a great experience for the whole community.
Swim test policy
This swim policy helps keep participants safe on the water by making sure they have basic swimming skills. It sets clear, age-appropriate requirements so coaches can respond quickly if someone falls into the water. The policy also explains who must complete a swim test, what the test involves, and which programs are exempt due to close supervision.
Registration, Payment and Cancellation Policy
This policy sets out the Petrie Island Canoe Club’s rules for program registration, age eligibility, payment, and cancellation to ensure clear, fair, and consistent management of Club programs. It defines participant responsibilities, payment and refund conditions, and assigns oversight to the Registrar under the authority of the Board of Directors.
Health and Safety Policy
Petrie Island Canoe Club is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for workers, members, volunteers, and participants through shared responsibility under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act. The Club commits to risk assessment, training, safe procedures, and continuous review, while affirming every worker’s rights to know, participate, refuse unsafe work, and be protected.
Rule of Two
The Rule of Two requires that athletes, especially minors, are always supervised by at least two screened and NCCP-trained or certified adults in potentially vulnerable situations, with interactions occurring within sight and hearing of a second adult. This rule protects athletes by reducing one-on-one situations and requires organizations to implement policies that limit risk during activities such as training, meetings, and travel.
Crew Selection Policy
Crew selection should be based primarily on developmental goals, with clear, objective criteria such as attitude, effort, attendance, skill, and teamwork, while emphasizing that crew placement is a merit-based privilege that may vary by age group. Coaches should promote positive team behaviour, set clear expectations, and prioritize enjoyable, functional crews for younger athletes while increasingly emphasizing commitment, consistency, and teamwork as athletes progress.
Boat Storage Policy
This policy sets out eligibility, fees, and conditions for storing personal boats at the Petrie Island Canoe Club, ensuring fair and consistent access for eligible members. It defines payment requirements, storage timelines, and conduct expectations, with oversight by the Paddling Director under the authority of the Board of Directors.
Volunteer Policy
These policies outline volunteer, registration, payment, and cancellation requirements for Petrie Island Canoe Club programs, ensuring fair participation, safety, and effective program management. Members are responsible for meeting volunteer commitments, completing registration and payments on time, and following clearly defined cancellation and refund rules.
