From Nervous Diver to Experienced Instructor: A Journey Through Time
Brent Clevenger Mar 11, 2025
Years ago, I remember a time when I absolutely loved diving, but the moment we pulled into the parking lot of the dive boat, nerves would set in. I wasn’t scared of the dive itself—I loved being underwater—but there was always a little bit of pre-dive anxiety.
During that time, there was an old diver who many of you know—a mentor to me as I got serious about diving. I would spend hours hanging out in his dive shop, just talking about diving, soaking in every bit of wisdom he had to offer. When we went diving, he was the epitome of calm. He had everything he needed in his dive bag, never rushed, and always seemed prepared for anything.
One thing that sticks out in my memory is his dive knife. It was big, old, black, dirty, and rusty-looking. And yet, he used it for everything—even making sandwiches on the dive boat. He never brought a pre-made lunch, but he always had everything necessary to put one together. Watching him, I thought I could never be that experienced, that comfortable in the world of diving.
Fast forward to today. I am now a highly experienced dive instructor at Sink or Swim Scuba, having taught several generations of dive families. The nervousness I once felt has long since faded, replaced by confidence and a deep love for the underwater world. But experience doesn’t just come with years—it comes with the little lessons along the way.
For instance, I now know firsthand what happens when you carry a protein shake in your pocket during a dive (hint: it’s not pretty). I’ve learned how to make an orange explode with a scuba tank (a fun little experiment). And just recently, I reached into my dive pocket only to discover a fresh apple from a past dive—apparently, I had been carrying around an emergency snack without even realizing it!
Over the years, divers have taken pictures of me asleep between dives in locations all around the world. Those pictures serve as a reminder that diving has become second nature to me—a world where I feel at home.
There’s something special about reaching a level of experience where diving feels effortless, where it becomes not just a sport or a hobby, but a way of life. I may never be as old or as experienced as my mentor was back then, but I can only hope to pass on the same knowledge, the same love for diving, and the same sense of calm to the next generation of divers.
The Added Comfort of Owning Your Dive Gear
One significant factor in my comfort level is owning my dive gear. At Sink or Swim Scuba (www.sinkorswimscuba.com), we understand that having your own equipment enhances your dive experience in several ways:
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Familiarity and Fit: Your own gear fits you perfectly, eliminating discomfort and distractions.
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Confidence and Control: Knowing your equipment inside and out builds confidence and allows you to focus on the dive.
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Preparedness: Having your gear readily available ensures you’re always prepared for any dive opportunity.
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Personalization: Your gear reflects your personal style and preferences, making each dive uniquely yours.
Owning your dive gear is an investment in your comfort and safety, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the underwater world.
Passing On the Passion at Sink or Swim Scuba
Just as my mentor shared his wisdom, I strive to pass on my knowledge and passion to the next generation of divers. At Sink or Swim Scuba (www.sinkorswimscuba.com), we believe in building a strong dive community and fostering a love for the underwater world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, we’re here to support your journey.
Join Our Dive Community
Experience the comfort and confidence that comes with owning your dive gear and learning from seasoned instructors. Visit www.sinkorswimscuba.com to explore our dive courses, gear selection, and community events. Dive into your next adventure with us!
