Every Monday night at 6:00 pm Associate Recreation Specialist Joel Peterson guides and teaches people to kayak on open water.

“It’s a great way to experience Superior, Wisconsin,” said Peterson, who encourages everyone to come out and participate in Campus Recreation's community paddle event. “It is a life-long sport and is for all levels and abilities.”

Campus Recreation provides kayaks, paddles and life jackets for people who do not have their own equipment and Peterson gives expert advice to beginner kayakers. The group meets at a different lake or river each week.

UWS sophomore Theresa Miazga was a first time kayaker and community paddle participant on September 21 when the event was held at Oliver Landing.

"I think most people would not have the opportunity if the program was not offered. I would do it again because it is a fun thing to do with friends and is better than sitting around the dorms," said Miazga.

Newcomers and first-time paddlers are always welcome. Peterson has some fairly simple advice for those who want to participate.

“Just come ready to paddle. Nylon pants are the best to wear because they dry fast if they get wet and cotton sticks to skin if you’re planning on getting wet. When it comes to foot wear, anything on your feet is fine," said Peterson.

Peterson teaches a kayak class starting in January in the HWC pool where students can learn new techniques.

The next Community Paddle will be on September 28 at the Nemadji river in Superior Wisconsin at 6:00 pm. Contact Joel Peterson for more information at jpeter11@uwsuper.edu.