On June 5th and 6th the CWA will hold beginner lessons near Yorkville, IL. On Day One students will learn to enter and exit a kayak safely, learn how to get out of a flipped kayak (AKA Wet Exit) along with basic strokes and simple self rescues. On Day Two we will apply theses skills to easy whitewater and learn about eddy turns and ferries which form the fundamentals of whitewater kayaking. We will practice defensive swimming techniques and learn about various river features. We will get to try simple throw rope rescues both as a rescuer and as the one needing assistance.

During the cooler months, the CWA sponsors pool classes which introduce the students to whitewater kayaking. Strokes, braces, the eskimo roll and safety considerations are all taught in these classes, unless otherwise noted. The following locations currently sponsor these classes and anyone interested in taking a class should note the exact dates, registration, and contact information. Most classes start in October and again in January or February, but few are offered in the summer but we are hoping that will change soon. This page should show the most current pool sessions available.