Who are ANZA Nippers (& who are we not?)

Having wrapped up the end-of-year championships and waved off another batch of happy Nippers graduates, the start of 2026 feels like the perfect time to reflect on what ANZA Nippers is – and absolutely isn’t.

What We’re NOT!

ANZA Nippers is definitely not boring or monotonous! Each week brings a completely different mix of games, drills, and learning as the kids race up and down Siloso beach, splash through the shallows, and challenge themselves in new ways. While we’ve got some well-loved staples (who doesn’t love a Tug of War or a big relay?!), the ever-changing kit and drills reflect the range of skills this programme builds.

Of course, there’s a nod to Australia and surf lifesaving culture, but we’re far from being just an Aussie-only affair. As an expat hub, children at ANZA Nippers in Singapore originate from every corner of the globe. It’s a wonderfully international crew learning water skills that matter everywhere.

Another thing Nippers is not? A professionally run, polished-to-perfection operation. Our awesome sports community is entirely volunteer-driven – from the leadership team to the Age Managers – all giving their time to keep this uniquely people-powered programme thriving on the red dot.

The group come together with an annual surf trip to Desaru

What We ARE!

So why do we love to turn up for action every Sunday? First up, we’re a proudly family-steered group. This isn’t a drop-off session or something where parents watch from afar. Rather, parents love to jump in, whether as qualified Age Managers or assistants, helping with markers in the swims, joining the games team, or just pitching in to wrangle kit.

Also, while Nippers takes place at Ola Beach Club, sessions are about so much more than the great location. Singapore may not boast the roaring surf of other Asian locations, but the skills are all teachable, and each year the group comes together in action with our annual surf trip to Desaru. Here, the kids get to tackle bigger waves and take surf lessons with our partners.

Most importantly, Nippers is a confidence-booster in real water. While most children can swim thanks to pool time in Singapore, when put in front of the ocean, many suddenly feel unsure. ANZA Nippers changes that. At this year’s try-outs, it was clear how far ahead returning Nippers were in how they were so much braver, stronger, and more at ease in the water and on the sand. But after a few weeks, the newbies had caught up.

Ultimately, Nippers is one of ANZA’s many sports groups offering ‘thrown-in-the-deep-end’ territory in all the best ways. It builds character, enhances skills, and wraps every child in a caring, can-do community that lifts them up.

Nippers is a confidence-booster in real water

Words and images: Caspar Schlickum