These are pictures from their winters rod building class taught by Al Goldberg and assisted by Capt. Neil Faulkner to a dozen members of the Ward Melville High School Fishing Club. Completed in 5 sessions of approximately 2 hours, Al and Capt Neil guided these kids through all the steps of what it takes to build their own rods. The kids watched and then completed each step on their own...wrapping them at home as well. One student even took it a step further and googled how to wrap a chevron and it came out great. It was a first time experience for all involved and most are ready to start on a second rod. Less than half took advantage of Al's initial offer and most of the rest already asked if were doing it again next year!!!
We have picked up some equipment, blanks, and all necessary materials to get the rest who missed out and want to take advantage of building their own....the opportunity to do so before next year. Many students will be on build #2 of the offseason.
Al and Capt. Neil really lit a fire under these kids and opened their eyes to something that they had never seen before. Great teachers and a great experience. I know the kids did not realize who they had teaching them and what these two guys represent but they soaked it all in! I made a joke during one of the sessions that I wished my students paid that close attention to what I was teaching!
more pictures of the entire experience were posted to our facebook page.
