Vikes
Recreation

Vikes Athletics and Recreation - Youth programs at Vikes Active Living

Youth

How can youth experience active healthy living at UVic?

Introduce your child to UVic through our sport and recreation programs for children and youth. Research shows that kids who have fun while participating in physical activity are more likely to stay active and healthy for life!

Leverage our world-class facilities and expert staff to bring movement, physical literacy and an active lifestyle to your children all year round.

View Youth programs and schedule.

Contact

Questions about youth programs?

Email: cve@uvic.ca

Location

Youth programs take place all around our facilities. Check program details for exact location. View map.


Mini Thunder at a birthday party
More for the kids!
We also offer birthday parties! Get the party out of the house and celebrate your birthday with the Vikes!
Vikes Active Living youth programs Vikes Active Living youth climbing programs Vikes Active Living youth soccer programs

Schedule

Currently running programs:


Programs starting in the next few months:

Youth events

River Reels Film Festival ⋅ Jan. 18

Film festival and fundraiser for UVic Whitewater Club

Free Trial Weekend (Dance) ⋅ Jan. 18 – Jan. 19

Holi Colour Run 2025 ⋅ Mar. 14

Run and dance your way through a vibrant explosion of colors at the Holi Color Run!

Programs

Note: We also offer high-performance sport programs for 13-18 year olds, designed to cultivate the skills and talents of the participants with expert coaching and training. See our high performance sport programs.

YOUTH WELCOME

Junior Vikes Girls* Rugby Academy

$150

Vikes Women's Rugby are excited to bring you the Junior Vikes Girls* Rugby Academy - Winter Session. The academy will combine on-field rugby skills, functional movement skills, speed and conditioning to help local female* athletes prepare for the upcoming season, representative rugby and university rugby. All levels welcome!

Class level: All welcome. Beginner friendly 😊.

Youth welcome: 12-19 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: Wallace Field (Field 6)
Dates: January 29 – April 16
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 9 weeks each
Time: Wednesday at 5:30PM–7:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Active Living youth program - Pro-D Day Camp

Pro-D Day Camp

$65

Spend your Pro-D-Day with the Vikes! Fantastic Vikes camp leaders are back to plan a day filled with games, sports, crafts and more! Campers will also get some time on CARSA's climbing wall on both the bouldering wall and climbing tower.

Requirements: Children 5 years of age must currently be attending kindergarten

Class level: All welcome.

Youth welcome: 5-12 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: McKinnon Dance Studio, CARSA Climbing Centre, McKinnon Gym
Dates: September 1 – July 1
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 7hrs each
Time: -- Select day -- at 9:00AM–4:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME ACCESSIBLE

Vikes Active Living youth program - S.T.E.A.Mers

S.T.E.A.Mers

$450

Design thinking, technology literacy, innovation and making observations are important skills that young leaders will engage in. Activities and play-based hands-on learning will focus on: S.T.E.A.M - Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math!

Class level: All welcome. Beginner friendly 😊.

Youth welcome: 6-8 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: CARSA Lobby & UVic Classrooms
Dates: March 24 – March 28
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 1 week each
Time: Monday at 9:00AM–3:00PM

Register

NEW YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Active Living youth program - Spring Break Camp - Intro to Kayaking

Spring Break Camp - Intro to Kayaking

$420

Ready to make a splash and master the art of kayaking? Whether you’re new to paddling or looking to sharpen your skills, this camp is designed for adventurers of all levels!

What to expect:

  • Daily Kayaking Adventures: Explore stunning coastal locations, serene bays, and gentle ocean inlets that provide the perfect mix of beauty and challenge.
  • Skill Development: Learn everything from basic strokes to advanced techniques, plus pro tips to paddle like a champ.
  • Safety First: Gain essential knowledge about water safety, kayak handling, and proper equipment use.
  • Team Fun: Bond with fellow campers through group challenges and exciting water-based games

Class level: All welcome. Beginner friendly 😊.

Youth welcome: 8-13 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: Various locations including campus, lakes, oceans nearby
Dates: March 17 – March 21
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 1 week each
Time: Monday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Tuesday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Wednesday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Thursday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Friday at 9:00AM–3:00PM

Register

NEW YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Active Living youth program - Spring Break Camp - Kayaking Essentials

Spring Break Camp - Kayaking Essentials

$420

This camp is perfect for those who’ve completed the Introduction to Kayaking Camp and are ready for bigger challenges and greater adventures. Build on your foundational skills while gaining confidence in advanced techniques and exploring breathtaking new waterways.

What to expect:

  • Skill Advancement: Master advanced paddling strokes, safety protocols, and rescue techniques for open water.
  • Trip Planning: Learn how to prepare for longer kayaking trips, including navigation and gear essentials.
  • Daily Challenges: Each session ramps up the excitement with progressively tougher tasks designed to push your limits.
  • New Water Adventures: Explore diverse locations that will test your skills and provide unforgettable experiences.

What’s included:

  • High-quality kayaks and all required safety gear (life jackets, etc.)
  • Expert instruction from experienced and certified Paddle Canada kayak leaders

Class level: -- Select level --.

Youth welcome: 8-13 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: Various locations including campus, nearby oceans and lakes
Dates: March 17 – March 21
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 1 week each
Time: Monday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Tuesday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Wednesday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Thursday at 9:00AM–3:00PM • Friday at 9:00AM–3:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME ACCESSIBLE

Vikes Active Living youth program - TED-Style Public Speaking

TED-Style Public Speaking

$450

Gain confidence to express your big ideas! Public Speaking is a great program for young leaders who want to build their public speaking skills with interactive activities, personalized coaching, and fun speech exercises, leading to improve their confidence. Ted - Style Public Speaking is for children aged 9-12 years to learn different techniques and tools to develop and present their very own Ted-style talk.

Class level: All welcome. Beginner friendly 😊.

Youth welcome: 9-12 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: CARSA Lobby & UVic Classrooms
Dates: March 17 – March 22
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 1 week each
Time: Monday at 9:00AM–3:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Active Living youth program - Track and Field - Mini Vikes 5-8

Track and Field - Mini Vikes 5-8

$110

Mini Vikes Track & Field is an introduction to track and field development skills. Children are given instruction on all basic motor skills through running, jumping and throwing with an emphasis on FUN and PLAY. This program also develops physical literacy, promotes Long Term Athlete Development and will be led by trained Vikes varsity athletes as the coaches.

Class level: All welcome. Beginner friendly 😊.

Youth welcome: 5-8 years

Location: CARSA Field House Sprint Lanes & Zone 1
Dates: January 19 – March 9
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 11 Weeks each
Time: Sunday at 1:00PM–2:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Active Living youth program - Vikes High School Endurance Running

Vikes High School Endurance Running

$80

Vikes and Victoria Endurance Track Club are partnering to offer endurance run training for kids age 13-18 interested in middle to long distance running. Participants will have the opportunity to build their endurance through age-appropriate training on and off the track through drills, running workouts and technique training. This one-day-per-week program will complement your high school training programs for those athletes wanting additional training. This program will be coached by experienced Vikes XC/Track assistant coaches and athletes.
All participants will get a shirt and have the opportunity to participate in organized races with the club if interested.

Class level: Intermediate.

Youth welcome: 13-18 years

Location: Centennial Stadium Track
Dates: January 20 – March 10
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 6 weeks each
Time: Monday at 5:30PM–6:30PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Active Living youth program - Vikes Long Term Athletic Development - Invasion / Speed Power Sports

Vikes Long Term Athletic Development - Invasion / Speed Power Sports

$475

This training program is for healthy athletes between the ages of 13 and 18. Athletes will increase performance by developing competency of key movement and developing strength and power. Athletes competing in volleyball, basketball, hockey, football, rugby as well any other sport that requires high levels of athleticism would greatly benefit from this program.

More information can be found here: Vikes Rec Athletic Development and any further questions can be send to Dana Agar-Newman at vikesstrength@uvic.ca.

Class level: All welcome.

Youth welcome: 13-18 years

Location: Centennial Stadium Weight Room
Dates: January 8 – April 26
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for each
Time: Monday at 6:30PM–8:00PM • Friday at 6:30PM–8:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Long Term Athletic Development - Invasion / Speed Power Sports

$496

Attention field and court sport athletes aged 13-18! Are you ready to unlock your full potential on the field of play? Join our comprehensive Vikes Prep Athlete Development Program designed to enhance your speed, power, strength, and mobility.

Led by seasoned coaches and trainers, this dynamic class goes beyond traditional sprint training by integrating mobility exercises to ensure your body moves with fluidity and efficiency. From refining your sprinting mechanics to maximizing your agility and explosiveness, our program covers it all.

Through a carefully curated curriculum that includes specialized drills, plyometrics, strength training, and mobility work, you'll develop the physical tools needed to dominate your sport. Whether you're striving for podium finishes or an athlete seeking to enhance your overall athleticism, this class offers personalized instruction and expert guidance to help you reach your goals.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your speed, strength and mobility to the next level. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and embark on the path to athletic excellence!"

This training program is for healthy athletes between the ages of 13 and 18. Athletes will increase performance by developing competency of key movement and developing strength and power. Athletes competing in volleyball, basketball, hockey, football, rugby as well any other sport that requires high levels of athleticism would greatly benefit from this program.

More information can be found here: Vikes Prep Athletic Development and any further questions can be send to Dana Agar-Newman at vikesstrength@uvic.ca.


Class level: All welcome.

Youth welcome: 13-18 years

Location: Centennial Stadium Weight Room
Dates: September 16 – December 20
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 15 weeks each
Time: Monday at 6:00PM–7:30PM • Friday at 6:00PM–7:30PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Men's Soccer ID Camp

$170

For students graduating in 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 that are interested in attending the University of Victoria and playing for the Vikes Men’s soccer team. The camp will take place on January 24th and 25th.

If traveling from the mainland, you will need to be on the 1:00pm ferry on Friday. The camp will end on Saturday at approximately 6:00pm; those traveling back to Vancouver by ferry should be able to make the 7:00pm ferry on Saturday evening.

Light snacks will be provided for participants Saturday morning

Friday, January 24th

  • 4:00 pm: Check-in CARSA Field House
  • 4:15 pm: Sprint testing in CARSA Field House and CARSA tour
  • 6:30-8:00 pm: Field training sessions on Fields 3, 4 and 5, University of Victoria

Saturday, January 25th

  • 8:30 am: Presentations – all in Sngequ House Room 131
  • University of Victoria Student Recruitment, Vikes Men’s Soccer Program
  • 9:30 am: Workshop on High School Athlete Recruiting
  • 10:30 am: Vikes Players Panel
  • 11:15 am: Break- lunch on your own
  • 12:00 pm: Meet in Vikes Men’s Soccer Locker Room in Centennial Stadium
  • 12:30 pm: Games (11v11)
  • 6:00 pm: Wrap-up

ACCOMMODATIONS

The Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza has allocated rooms for January 24th and 25th at the special rate of $135 plus taxes per night. Please contact Luciah Park, Sales Assistant: phone 250-413-2193


Class level: All welcome.

Youth welcome: 14-19 years

Location: Various (see itinerary)
Dates: January 24 – January 25
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 2 days each
Time: Friday at 4:00PM–8:00PM • Saturday at 8:30AM–6:00PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Nation Girls Basketball Placement Camp U11-U13

$125+GST

The Vikes Nation U11-U13 Girls Basketball Placement Camp is designed for young athletes who are eager to learn, develop their basketball skills, and are interested in playing on the Vikes Nation Spring/Summer teams.

These sessions will focus on evaluating fundamental basketball techniques, team play, and individual performance. Coaches will then place each athlete on the appropriate team based on their skills and registration.

The final team schedule (practices and tournaments) will be determined following the Placement Camp.

  • Practice Times: Likely to be on either Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (times to be announced)
  • Tournaments: April through June, weekends (Fridays- Sundays)

Placement Camp Details:

  • Age Group: U11-U13 Girls (born in 2014, 2013, and 2012)
  • When:
    • March 2nd: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM (CARSA Performance Gym)
    • March 3rd: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM (McKinnon Gym)
  • Cost: $125 + Taxes
  • Included: Each participant will receive a reversible jersey

Space is limited, so be sure to register early! Registration closes on February 28th.

Class level: -- Select level --.

Youth welcome: U11-U13 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: Performance Gym, McKinnon Gym
Dates: March 2 – March 3
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 2 days each
Time: Sunday at 2:30PM–5:00PM • Monday at 4:00PM–6:30PM

Register

YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Nation Girls Basketball Placement Camp U14-U17

$125+ GST

The Vikes Nation U14-U17 Girls Basketball Placement Camp is designed for young athletes who are eager to learn, develop their basketball skills, and are interested in playing on the Vikes Nation Spring/Summer teams.

These sessions will focus on evaluating fundamental basketball techniques, team play, and individual performance. Coaches will then place each athlete on the appropriate team based on their skills and registration.

The final team schedule (practices and tournaments) will be determined following the Placement Camp.

  • Practice Times: will be on twice a week Mondays and Wednesdays (times to be announced)
  • Tournaments: April through June weekends (Fridays- Sundays), U14/17 competitive teams will run till first weekend of July

Placement Camp Details:

  • Age Group: U14-U17 Girls (born in 2011 - 2008)
  • When:
    • March 9th: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM (CARSA Performance Gym)
    • March 10th: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM (McKinnon Gym)
  • Cost: $125 + Taxes
  • Included: Each participant will receive a reversible jersey

Space is limited, so be sure to register early! Registration closes on March 7th

Class level: -- Select level --.

Youth welcome: U14-U17 years

Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.

Location: Performance Gym, McKinnon Gym
Dates: March 9 – March 10
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for each
Time: Sunday at 2:30PM–5:00PM • -- Select day -- at 4:00PM–6:30PM

Register

NEW YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Soccer - Boys Academy

$275

Vikes Soccer Boys Academy is designed for motivated male youth players who are looking to improve in a professional and challenging environment. The program is for players who are currently playing or aiming to play at the tier one or tier two level. It is a supplemental training-only program in addition to your youth club training/games.

Participants will have the opportunity to be coached by the Vikes Men’s Soccer coaching staff. In addition, opportunities will be provided to meet and be coached by current UVic men’s varsity soccer players.

Class level: Intermediate.

Youth welcome: 11-17 years

Location: Field 3
Dates: November 15 – March 7
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 16 weeks each
Time: Friday at 5:30PM–7:00PM

Register

NEW YOUTH WELCOME

Vikes Strength Training for Rowing Athletes

$496

Unlock Your Potential: Join Our Vikes Strength Training for Rowing Athletes!

Calling all aspiring rowers aged 13-18! Elevate your performance on the water by mastering the fundamentals of strength training. Our specialized camp is designed to introduce you to the essential techniques of strength and conditioning, tailored specifically for rowing.

Led by experienced coaches and certified trainers, you'll dive into a comprehensive program aimed at building a solid foundation of strength, power, and endurance. Through a series of interactive workshops and hands-on sessions, you'll learn proper form, safe lifting practices, and effective workout routines.

Whether you're a novice looking to enhance your athleticism or a seasoned competitor aiming to fine-tune your skills, this camp offers invaluable insights and personalized guidance to help you reach your full potential. Join us and embark on a transformative journey towards becoming a stronger, more resilient rower.

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and embark on the path to rowing excellence!

Coach bio:
Sam is a graduate intern strength and conditioning coach at the Canadian Sport Institute – Pacific, who is NCCP trained in Olympic lifting and is currently working towards his masters in kinesiology. Wherein, he is applying his talents in strength & conditioning and biomechanics towards research in rowing at UVic. Sam has a wide background in sport, and is currently training UVic’s varsity men’s rowing, men’s soccer, and track/x-country teams at UVic.

Class level: All welcome.

Youth welcome: 13-18 years

Location: Meet in CARSA lobby
Dates: September 16 – December 20
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for 15 weeks each
Time: Tuesday at 6:00AM–7:30AM • Thursday at 6:00AM–7:30AM

Register

All prices valid as of September 1, 2024. All prices include GST.


More youth-friendly programs offered by Vikes Athletics and Recreation
Climbing
Dance
Drop-in / Informal Recreation
Group Fitness
High Performance
Inclusion and accessibility
Martial Arts
Outdoor
Racquet Sports
Registered Fitness
Yoga
Please review the Vikes Athletics and Recreation policies before participating in Vikes youth programs.