Inuvik (Nov 24/06) - Volleyball in the pool? Yes, you read that right. This weekend's water volleyball tournament at the family centre will kick off a new series of monthly events.

Inuvik family centre lifeguard Lindsay Wood is getting ready for a water volleyball tournament this weekend. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Lifeguard Lindsay Wood took some time from her busy day to explain the reasoning behind the new plan and how it will affect recreational services in town.

"This tournament came from meetings that were held during the pool shutdown," said Wood.

The family centre pool recently re-opened to the public after a two-week break for annual maintenance.

"It was during that break that we came together as a staff and came up with ideas to boost attendance," said Wood.

The goal of the family centre is to host a special event every month.

December is already set aside for Santa's swim, which is a chance for the younger ones to meet Santa and spend some time with him at the family centre.

This month's water volleyball tournament was the idea of a co-worker who wished to remain anonymous. Wood explained the format of the playoff would be informal.

Teams of five players are invited to sign up, and can be all-male, all-female, or mixed.

"There are no formal requirements," said Wood. "We only ask that you be over the age of 15."

The games start at 7 p.m. on Friday night. Wood said regular programs will be cancelled that night for the special event.

"The family and teen swims have been removed that night only," she said.

If you don't make the registration deadline of tonight, you can still drop in and play.

"There will be teams made on the day of the game, made of drop-ins," said Wood.

The cost to register is $15.

The family centre is busy, with people still constantly lining up for swim times.

"Our first day open to the public was on Sunday, Nov. 12," said Wood. "Our regular lessons are back, in all levels."

For those working towards their lifeguarding certification, the Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross courses are both back as well.