MARCH 2 0 2 6
The City of Lethbridge acknowledges that we are gathered on the lands of the Blackfoot people of the Canadian Plains and pays respect to the Blackfoot people past, present and future while recognizing and respecting their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship to the land. The City of Lethbridge offers respect to the Metis and all who have lived on this land and made Lethbridge their home.
ABOUT THE POOLS
What is happening at our pools this season? The Stan Siwik Family Leisure Pool, Nicholas Sheran Family Leisure Pool, Fritz Sick Pool, and Henderson Outdoor Pool are community treasures that serve the people of Lethbridge and Southern Alberta. Our team is committed to providing the community our best customer service, clean and safe facilities and activities for all ages.
Tidal Vipers Junior Lifeguard Club
Winter 2026 Junior Lifeguard Club will run from January 5 until April 22.
Youth and adults aged 8 years old and up who are looking for an activity that is dynamic, ranging from endurance swims and rescue scenarios to team-based problem-solving activities.
The Junior Lifeguard Club is Where FUN meets SPORT—the perfect next step for swimmers who want to push themselves, build confidence, and experience the excitement of lifeguarding skills in a team setting.
Registration is open, with competitive and non-competitive sessions available. For more information or to register visit aquatics.lethbridge.ca
Spring Lesson Registration
Please note that registration will open by facility— on each date, only lessons for the specified pool(s) will be available:
Nicholas Sheran Pool
Tuesday, March 24 at 9:00 am
Stan Siwik Pool / Fritz Sick Pool
Wednesday, March 25 at 9:00 am
Womens Only Swim
March 27, 2026 2:15 pm to 3:15 pm at Stan Siwik Pool. The Women and Girls Only Swim program will provide a safe and designated space for Women and Girls who are unable to participate in traditional or mixed-gender activities because of culture, religion, beliefs, trauma, insecurities, etc. to swim without the presence of men or boys. The first 35 attendees can swim for free, and after that, it’s only $4.00 per person.
Interested in building lifeguard skills?
Canadian Swim Patrol: Includes Rookie Patrol, Ranger Patrol, and Star Patrol—an excellent introduction to lifeguard knowledge and skills. Advanced Courses at Stan Siwik: Whether you’re registering for the first time or recertifying, we’ve got you covered!
Stay Connected
For more information on programs, schedules, fees, and FAQs, visit recex.ca/Lethbridge or email us at leth@recreationexcellence.com.
Stan Siwik Leisure Centre 403-320-3054 | 1901 15 Ave N
Nicholas Sheran Leisure Centre 403-320-3046 | 401 Laval Blvd W
Fritz Sick Leisure Centre 403-320-3109 | 420 11 St S
ADMISSIONS, VISIT CARDS & MEMBERSHIPS
*Not applicable to registered programs or senior swim.
AQUATICS
ADVANCED COURSES
Intermediate First Aid provides comprehensive training covering all aspects of first aid and CPR. This course is for those who want an in-depth understanding of first aid such as: medical/ legal aspects, spinal injuries, environmental injuries, bone and joint injuries, abdominal and chest injuries, burns, and medical emergencies.
Includes CPR-C and AED certification. Current for 3 years.
Intermediate First Aid Recertification (formerly Standard) requires both theoretical and practical skill examinations. Those using another Alberta workplace-approved standard first aid as a prerequisite must show proof of current certification. If no longer current, individuals must attend the original course. Unsuccessful candidates in the recertification course must complete the original course.
Prerequisite(s): Must bring current Intermediate First Aid Certification to course.
Mar. 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 21 22017 Fri/Sat/ Sun 8:30am - 5:00pm
This 40 hour course will certify successful candidates with the NLS Pool option award. *Note: Please bring proof of IFA CPR-C to first class.
*NL Waterpark Course available August 25 & 26. Call for more information.
Prerequisite(s): Must be 15 years old, hold a Bronze Cross & Intermediate First Aid CPR-C Certification.
The Swim and Lifesaving Instructors course combines the responsibilities of Swim Instructors and Lifesaving Instructors. Candidates will be trained to teach and evaluate participants in programs such as Swim for Life, Canadian Swim Patrol, Bronze Medals, Distinction, Boat Rescue and Lifesaving Society CPR. The course equips instructors with level 1 leadership competencies and strategies necessary for planning, teaching, and evaluating swimming and lifesaving skill.
Prerequisite(s): Must be 15 years old and Bronze Cross or higher and Intermediate First Aid CPR-C & AED
This 20 hour course prepares candidates an understanding of the lifesaving principles in the four components of water rescue education: judgement, knowledge, skills and fitness.
*Note: Bronze Medallion is offered seperately from Bronze Cross.
Prerequisite(s): Must be 13 years old and hold CPR-C.
*Note: Must bring NL certification and current Intermediate First Aid Certification to the exam
This 20 hour course begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as a lifeguard.
Prerequisite(s): Must be 13 years old, hold a Bronze Medallion (need not be current) and Intermediate First Aid CPR-C & AED (must be current) is required.
REGISTRATION & REFUND INFORMATION
Lesson Registration
• Registrations can be made online at lethbridge.ca/swimming or by telephone/in-person Monday-Friday between the hours of 9am and 5pm.
• Registration is on a first come first served basis.
• If registering by phone and no one answers please leave a message.
• Participants may register in a maximum of two (2) classes/session.
• Participants may waitlist in any class.
Preparing to Register
Create an account prior to registration at lethbridge.ca/swimming. If you do not have an account you will need the following:
• Name & birth date of account holder (Adult)
• Name & birth date of participants
• Home address, phone # and postal code
• Program level, session time and alternatives if class is full
• Payment information incl 3 digit CVV # on credit cards for phone registrations
Fees
Fees must be paid in full at the time of registration. Cash, Debit, Visa, MC, Rec Ex Gift Card & Cheque are accepted in person. Cheques are payable to Recreation Excellence. Post dated cheques are not accepted. A $25 charge will be applied to all NSF cheques. Only Visa & MC are accepted for phone registrations. Visa & MC Debit cards are accepted online and in person.
Registration Locations
Stan Siwik Leisure Centre 1901 15 Ave N Phone: (403) 320-3054
Nicholas Sheran Leisure Centre 401 Laval Blvd W Phone: (403) 320-3046
Online and phone registrations are highly encouraged for more information look online: aquatics.lethbridge.ca
Program Cancellations
Programs with insufficient registration are subject to cancellation. Customers will be notified as soon as a decision regarding cancellation has been made. All efforts will be made to accomodate any registrants displaced by cancellations. A full refund or credit to account will be issued for courses cancelled by Recreation Excellence.
Withdrawals
• Withdrawals received more than fourteen (14) days prior to the start of the lesson set or course will not be subject to a withdrawal fee.
• Withdrawals made between five (5) and fourteen (14) days prior to the lesson start date will be subject to a 10% withdrawal fee. The remaining balance may be left on your account for future use or a refund may be requested.
• Refunds of less than $5.00 will remain on the account.
• You may withdraw and re-register into another program without penalty prior to five (5) days before the lesson start date.
• No refunds will be given if withdrawal is within five (5) days of the lesson start date.
Transfers
All transfers are subject to availability and may be made without penalty up to five (5) days prior to the lesson start date. Transfers made by Recreation Excellence will not incur a penalty. Any resulting increase in program fees due to the transfer must be paid by the customer at the time of transfer.
Medical / Moving
Withdrawals for medical / relocation reasons are permitted with no penalty prior to the lesson start date. Refunds for withdrawal after the lesson start date will result in a pro-rated refund or credit on account. Proof of medical / relocation must be provided within two (2) weeks of notification of withdrawal for refunds or credits to be issued
NICHOLAS SHERAN LEISURE CENTRE SCHEDULE
NICHOLAS SHERAN LEISURE CENTRE SCHEDULE
For details, contact: Damien Griffiths at Nicholas Sheran Pool dgriffith@recreationexcellence.com 403-320-3047
- Spring 2026
No
MARCH 2026 PROGRAMS, EVENTS & EXHIBITS
SPECIAL EVENTS PROGRAMS
Tue 03 | 10:30–11:30 AM
Creative Community:
International Women’s Day
Art activities with a connection to local history, museum exhibitions and culture. adults and seniors | registration encouraged: admission applies, members free
Thu 19 | 5–6:30 PM
2SLGBTQIA+ & Allies
Fiber Arts Club present: Stitch the Rainbow
Whether you’re into knitting, crochet, embroidery, weaving, or any other fiber craft, this is your space to create, learn, and connect with fellow makers. all ages & skill levels | drop-in | free
Fri 20 | 3–4 PM
Genealogy in the Archives:
Using Masonic Records
Amber Hunt highlights family history information to be found in Masonic and affiliated records. adults and seniors | admission applies, members free
Wed 25 | 9-11 AM
Toddler Time: Explore & Play
A fun-filled morning with toys, activities, book reading, and exhibit time.
NOW SHOWING:
Sun 08 | 12–2 PM
International Women’s Day Yoga
Join instructor Amber Lynn for a serene and empowering afternoon of Yin Yoga, followed by tea and treats.
adults and seniors | registration required: $20/person, free to members
Fri 20 | 6:30–8 PM
Welcoming in the Spring
Equinox - The Power of the Breath for Relaxation & Whole-Body Wellbeing
Learn breathwork and related techniques to reduce stress, improve relaxation, and support overall well-being in a workshop led by experienced educator and wellness practitioner Elaine Jagielski. all ages welcome | registration encouraged: $20/person
EXHIBIT OPENING:
Celebrate Lethbridge’s brewing heritage and Old Style Pilsner’s 100th anniversary in our new exhibition! Opens MARCH 21
Discover the rich history of the Galt Hospital and School of Nursing at our new permanent exhibition.
Winter Wild Neighbours
December 2025 March 2026
Discover the incredible animals that share our cities, parks & backyards.
Featuring informative displays, fun facts & hands on activities!
Ages 2 to 5
Celebrate winter and explore nature with your preschooler during these 3 week courses!
March - June
Thursdays | 9:30am - 10:30am or 11am - Noon
$15 per course | New Topics Each Week!
Register Online: Leisure.Lethbridge.c a
Ages 11 to 15
Wild Survival
EXPLORE THE EXHIBIT: DISCOVER THE EXHIBIT:
The Power of Play
Dec 17 Mar 25, 2026
Build, create & explore through hands on play stations.
Ages 6 to 10
Get outside and enjoy nature based games and activities in these 3 week courses!
March - June
Saturdays | 10:00am - Noon
$30 per course | New Topics Each Week!
Register Online: Leisure.Lethbridge.c a
Discover how local animals use play to build survival skills, then put your knowledge to the test with fun, play based group challenges.
March 20 | 1:30pm - 3:30pm | FREE!
Register Online: Leisure.Lethbridge.c a
NATURE PLAY POP UP
with Lethbridge Plays
Get Outside & Play!
Visit the Helen Schuler Nature Centre to build, create, and explore with loose parts.
Free! Drop - In! Dress for the Weather! March 21 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Summer Coulees & Culture Day Camps
Daily 8:30am - 4:30 pm
• Camp 1: July 06 - 10
• Camp 2: July 20 - 24
Kids (ages 6 10) discover the cultural, historical, and natural treasures of Lethbridge at a new destination each day the perfect way to learn and play! HSNC | NEW WEST THEATRE | GALT MUSEUM | FORT WHOOP-UP | SAAG
• Camp 3: August 10 - 14
• Camp 4: August 24 - 28
Registration Opens March 1, 2026: Leisure.Lethbridge.ca
Backyard Wilderness — Presentation
Sunday March 8 | 1:30pm 2:30pm
Join Leila Armstrong at the Nature Centre as she presents her doctoral research project, Backyard Wilderness: An interdisciplinary investigation of the urban ecology of Lethbridge.
Blending science and creative expression, the project uses trail cameras, community surveys, and artwork to reveal the wildlife living alongside us and to reframe how we think about coexistence in the city.
Cost: FREE | Ages 16+ recommended
Best Front Forward is a beautification and biodiversity enhancement campaign for 'front yards', running March October 2026.
Best Front Forward aims to build more front yard spaces that are full of life, colour, friends & resiliency.
This program includes easy and simple steps you can take to re imagine your front yard as a place that contributes to your community.
If your front yard contains at least 15 of these 30+ landscaping & community building initiatives, submit a registration form online to receive a GOLD STAR for your front yard!
*Initiatives and registration are available at: Nature.Lethbridge.ca/bff
403.320.3064 | nature.lethbridge.ca | nature@lethbridge.ca Located in the river valley north of CPR High Level Bridge
Helen Schuler Nature Centre City of Lethbridge Recreation
Spring is Just Around the Corner
Let’s Play Outside
Explore City Playgrounds - Fun for All Ages!
Playgrounds aren’t just for kids Everyone can join in the fun and get active
Swing! - Young and old can enjoy the swings They’re great for the whole body, developing cardiovascular f itness, spatial awareness, and muscular force
Climb! - Whether it’s ladders or steps, climbing improves muscular strength, balance and coordination Try out the balance beams too
Hang Around! - Monkey bars take practice but even just hanging on them improves shoulder flexibility, posture and grip strength
Run Around - Nothing beats a good, old-fashioned playground game Here are some great ones anyone can take part in:
Red Light, Green Light
Simon Says Marco Polo
Capture the Flag Four Square Freeze Tag
BLOG
HOW PLAY CAN REDUCE CHALLENGING BEHAVIOURS AND BUILD RESILIENCY IN YOUTH
summary of an article
Play is a powerful tool for reducing challenging behaviours and building resiliency in youth. It fosters relationships, supports stress management, builds confidence, and enhances self-awareness, social awareness, and emotional regulation. Through play, young people can safely explore boundaries, test emotions, and practice social interactions. These shared experiences increase teamwork, bonding, and rapport, which can help de-escalate conflict.
De-escalation involves reducing the intensity of a conflict or potentially violent situation. During escalation, the amygdala triggers a fight, flight, or freeze response, often overriding the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for rational thinking and decision-making. Because the prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until around age 25, youth are especially vulnerable to emotional escalation. Play helps regulate the nervous system, supporting calmer responses and improved self-control.
At the YMCA, Community Access Liaisons have seen how play mitigates negative behaviours. Through spontaneous activities and structured programs like scavenger hunts, youth experience joy, collaboration, and pride. These opportunities reduce isolation, strengthen relationships, improve impulse control and critical thinking, and help youth grow into more cooperative, flexible, and resilient individuals.
A
on the Lethbridge Plays blog, submitted by Sarah Little, YMCA of Lethbridge
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
SPORT INFORMATION EXCHANGE and
WHEN:
WHERE:
REGISTER:
AGENDA:
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Lethbridge Sport Council Community Room, 2nd Floor, Nicholas Sheran Ice Centre, 401 Laval Blvd W
https://bit.ly/lscagm2026
5:30-6:30 PM - Sport Information Exchange 7:00-8:00 PM - Annual General Meeting
Sport Information Exchange - Supporting the people who make sport happen This session will feature short, practical presentations focused on topics to make your role easier and your organization stronger. Designed specifically for local sport organizations, this session is about your work, the challenges you face, and the questions you’re trying to solve. You’ll also have the chance to connect with fellow board members, sport leaders and the LSC staff and board around common challenges and opportunities. Topics and speakers will be shared on our website as they are confirmed.
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER TO ATTEND
PEOPLE IN SPORT
Reducing Barriers to access - Chase Petruska
In 2018, Chase Petruska began volunteering in adaptive sport by coaching his brother in powerchair hockey with the Calgary Powerchair Hockey League. Seeing firsthand the impact sport had on athletes’ confidence, independence, and social connection inspired him to deepen his involvement. Since then, he has served as assistant coach with Powerhockey Canada (2025), vice president and coach with the Alberta Cerebral Palsy Sports Association (2023), and founder, president, and coach of the Lethbridge Powerchair Sports Association (2022), which recently hosted 32 athletes at its last tournament to expand access to adaptive sport in southern Alberta.
One defining moment came at a tournament in London, Ontario. Entering as clear underdogs, his team lost most games by wide margins, but secured a 1–0 round robin victory that felt like a championship. Their goalie — who had experienced a stroke more than twenty years earlier — earned the team’s first shutout. “He rushed toward me in his powerchair, arms in the air, yelling with pure joy. Seeing him happy like that made me very emotional, even to the point of tears, knowing everything he and his teammates had overcome”.
Driven by the resilience of these athletes and recognizing the lack of research focused on improving their quality of life, Chase now studies the biological, psychological, and social impacts of adaptive sport. Volunteering, he says, gives him purpose and perspective while reinforcing why inclusive sport opportunities matter.
https://sportvolunteerhub.ca/in-the-community
Want to read more? ↑
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
A Sport of Passion, Grit and Comradery
Have you heard of women's tackle football? This sport is on the rise in Western Canada with more than 1,500 women competing. Following the 2010 Women’s World Tackle Football Championships, the Western Women’s Canadian Football League was created. Through strength and a supportive environment, team’s from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba practice and compete in this growing league.
Athletes ages 14+ come together to take part in this empowering game by committing to mental and physical toughness. Women’s football provides athletes a chance to develop high-quality skills in an inclusive and empowering environment. Here’s what’s impactful about women’s football:
Lifelong Leadership Acquisition: Players accumulate strong leadership skills by calling plays and setting up formations in offence and defense.
Speed, Endurance, Strength: Through meticulous training, athletes develop explosive speed, lasting stamina and physical power. Mental and Physical Toughness: Requires players to push through adversity while developing confidence, grit and resilience in high-intensity environments.
Increasing Opportunities and Visibility: Ever growing, women's football has expanded across western Canada, allowing athletes to compete at prestigious levels.
Team Cohesion and Unity: With numerous supports, women’s football serves as a community for likeminded, team comradery.
Perseverance in Physical Pursuit
Women’s football encourages new or continuing players to find their passion in the game of grit and determination. Joining or watching a local program can inspire athletes of any age to begin their journey, with opportunities to compete not just regionally and provincially, but also nationally to internationally at the World Championship.
Why Try Women's Football?
By joining women’s football, you open doors to a community of strong and supportive athletes. Give women’s football a chance by trying out for free right here in Lethbridge!
Women’s Football in Lethbridge
Clubs - Lethbridge Steel Football, is open for all woman ages 16+. Lethbridge Minor Football Association is launching a new U16 girls team. Events - Lethbridge Steel will two guaranteed home games this season, April 25th and May 30th at the U of L Community Sports Stadium
See what’s possible when you step onto the field. Women’s football is where passion meets determination, and lasting comradery is created.
Sources: Western Women’s Canadian Football League
Leth bridge Picnic Shelters
0 John Martin Picnic Shelter
62Ave N
Seats 145
Rental Cost: $495 + GST
Rental time: 9am-2am
E) Baroness Picnic Shelter
Indian Battle Rd S
Seats 36
Rental Cost: $37 + GST/Hour
Rental Time: Hourly Booking
Alcohol is not permitted
0 Elks Picnic Shelter
55-79 Botteril Bottom Rd S
Seats 130 People
Rental Cost: $495 + GST
Rental time is: 9am-2am
0 Nicholas Sheran
Picnic Shelter
Nicholas Sheran Park
Seats 72
Rental Cost: $37 + GST/Hour
Rental Time: Hourly Booking
Alcohol is not permitted
0 Legacy Picnic Shelter
400 Blackwolf Blvd N
Seats 50
Rental Cost: $382.50 + GST
Rental time: 9am-2am
0 Rotary Picnic Shelter
Giffen Rd N
Seats 175
Rental Cost: $495 + GST
Rental time: 9am-2am
8 Kiwanis Picnic Shelter
7265 St S
Seats 36
Rental Cost: $37 + GST/Hour
Rental Time: Hourly Booking
Alcohol is not permitted
0 Henderson Horseshoe
Picnic Shelter
Mayor Magrath Dr S
Seats 60
Rental Cost: $270.00 + GST
Rental time: 9am -10pm
Alcohol is not permitted
0 Popson Park Picnic Shelter
95060AveW
Seats 72
Rental Cost: $270 + GST
Rental Time: 9am-10pm
Alcohol is not permitted
Easy and tasty ways to cook and eat for better health
Demonstration
When: Noon – 1:30 pm
Everyday Meals:
Jan 21 OR Feb 25 Live Online
Mar 25 In-person
Fresh & Flavourful:
Feb 4 Live Online
Mar 5 In-person
Tasty, Low Salt Cooking
Demonstration
When: Noon - 1:00 pm
Meal Ideas:
Jan 28 OR Mar 3 Live Online
Dips & Sauces: Feb 19 Live Online Mar 18 In-person
Preparing for Bariatric Surgery
Cooking Class
Live Online Cook Along
When: 1:30 - 3:00 pm
Feb 27 Live Online
More info: www.ahs.ca/shcwellnesskitchen (click on Program Guide) 403-956-3939 or wellness.shc@ahs.ca
Updated December 9, 2025
Cooking Class
Demonstration
When: 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
Jan 27 OR Mar 26 In-person
Cancer Recovery:
Cooking for Taste & Swallowing Difficulties
Demonstration
When: 10:00 am - 12:30 pm Mar 12 In-person
Cooking When Fatigued
Demonstration
When: Noon – 1:30 pm
Everyday Meals Made Easier: Feb 11 Live Online
Meals for Low-Energy Days: Mar 11 In-person
In-person Classes are held in the Wellness Kitchen, South Health Campus, Calgary Caregivers are welcome.
All participants must register. Live online classes are open to all Albertans.
