STEVENAGE SUB AQUA CLUB, 1962 -2020

SSAC was formed in 1962 and quickly secured the use of the newly opened Stevenage swimming pool where we have been based ever since. For many years the club was completely independent however in 1988 it affiliated with the Sub Aqua Association (SAA) one of the major UK diving organisations and through them with CMAS (World Underwater Federation). SSAC still maintains its independence in terms of organisation and management whilst benefitting from the accredited training courses and support offered by affiliation to the SAA.

We have members from across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, ranging from novice to those with more than 50 years experience and spanning nearly 60 years in age. We offer training from absolute beginner to instructor with most being done ‘in house’ by qualified and experienced volunteer instructors.

We are able to dive locally at the Blue Lagoon in Arlesey which is ideal for those first dives and subsequent training. During the year trips are organised to other dive sites both inland and on the coast to offer a wide range of diving experiences for both new and experienced divers.

Many members venture further afield and between us we have probably dived the majority of the world’s top sites. Popular destinations include the Red Sea, the Caribbean, Mexico, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Phillipines.

As well as diving we try to include non diving family members as well with regular social events including our annual BBQ at Arlesey. As a consequence we are now seeing second and third generation family members catching the ‘diving bug’ and learning to dive.

We hold an annual dinner in November which includes the presentation of 2 awards.

The John Gritton Award, in memory of one of the original members. All club members vote each year for which member they feel has made the greatest contribution to the club during that year.

The Murray Caswell Award, in memory of a diver who was a member from the late 1960’s until his early death in 1987. Presented by his wife it is awarded to a member who the committee wish to recognise for their personality.