Steering a dragon boat team is an incredibly rewarding experience, and our 5-stage recognition pathway is designed to help you grow and excel as a Sweep. Through this process, your skills, knowledge, and achievements will be acknowledged, with the goal of reaching Level 3 Sweep accreditation.
All Sweeps must abide by the NZDBA Sweep Accreditation rules
Level 0 to 1: Entry-Level Sweep
You’ll start under "Direct Supervision” with a Level 3 Sweep mentor in the boat at all times, guiding you until you’ve demonstrated satisfactory sweeping skills.
Level 1 to 2: Indirect Supervision
Once you pass both written and practical assessments, you’ll advance to “Indirect Supervision” where a Level 3 Sweep mentor will stay in audible contact during your practice.
Level 2 to 3: Independent Sweeping
To achieve full accreditation, you must complete three incident-free racing events as a Sweep. One of these must be a NZDBA Sanctioned Event, and two of the three races must be in standard 20-person boats. Multi-day events will count as separate events.
1. Submit your Expression of Interest: Sweep EOI - Auckland Dragon Boat Association (adba.co.nz)
2. Select your Level 3 Sweep Mentor: Your mentor will guide you and directly supervise your team in the boat.
3. Book your practical test: Contact the Sweep Coordinator to schedule your practical test and advance to Level 2.
4. Complete your theory test: Study and take your Level 2 theory test online.
5. Keep practicing: The more you steer, the better you’ll become—so get out there as often as you can!
6. Start racing: Once you're confident, get out on the water and race!
For more details or to book your practical test, contact Chris, our Sweep Coordinator: https://www.adba.co.nz/contact/