katzurki 0 #1 August 30, 2006 My niece, who has recently turned 15, is adamant she wants to start AFF. She jumped tandem when she was 13, and pretty much right after landing asked what the minimum age was, and was told 15. Well, she turned 15 a month ago. Money is not a problem for her (since it comes out of my pocket Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lisamariewillbe 1 #2 August 30, 2006 Can she buy a house ? Join the Army? If not I dont think they should be able to skydive. No one should have to give consent to someone else to put their life on the line. Thats what her parents would be doing, personally I wouldnt do it. Granted alot have without problems. As far as maturity, Id trust a 15 yr old girl over the 19 yr old boys who start AFF. My issue is just that she cant solely make the choice to jump yet. If her parents say yes and the DZ says yes then have fun and post pics .... but make her buy her own gear... let her pack Sudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites riddler 0 #3 August 30, 2006 If you have a 15 year-old girl, keep her a LONG way from any dropzone.Trapped on the surface of a sphere. XKCD Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites katzurki 0 #4 August 30, 2006 QuoteCan she buy a house ? Join the Army? Hello? 15-year-old? Quote If her parents say yes and the DZ says yes then have fun and post pics The DZ has 15 as the minimum age. Her one remaining parent will make the decision, and I strongly assume it may be a yes. Her choice is that she does want to jump. The ultimate decision, as the one to pay for all of it, will be up to me. I'm torn between an obvious yes (skydiving family member, free packer, someone to share the fun with? hell yeah!) and a reluctant no (too young). Let's word it this way, why should I not let her start AFF? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SkymonkeyONE 4 #5 August 30, 2006 Is it legal there? If so, and she is mature enough in your, and her parents' eyes, then go for it. It has been authorized by our governing body here in the USA (USPA) for 16 year olds to learn to skydive since way before I was born. There are tons of places here where we routinely train 16 year olds without hesitation. By the way, I am not interested in hearing anybody's "you can't sign away a minor child's rights" rants either. It's fine in a lot of places and if you are not cool with it then don't let your kid do it. Mike Mullins' kids have all proven what's possible at younger-than-normal ages. Once again: if it's legal there, her parents are cool with it, and you know she is going to get decent instruction, then I say let her do it. Chuck Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites pilotdave 0 #6 August 30, 2006 I think you and her parents are the only people that can make the decision based on what you know of her. In the US, you can solo a glider at 14. I soloed a plane at 16, before I soloed a car. I don't think 15 is unreasonable to skydive if she has the right attitude and can handle that kind of pressure. I don't think it's crazy for SOME 15 year olds to skydive, but I don't know her. It'd be a big responsibility on you though. Do you want that? Dave Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites frynsky 0 #7 August 30, 2006 Yeah, I know a girl who started that early, but she is a dropzone owner's kid. She had no problem with it, she obviously had been around it all her life. I think she would be able to handle the skydiving. But what would concern me is the way some girls/women, especially if they are attractive, are rushed into certain things by other skydivers. SCR's, first twenty ways, etc. If you were there to see her along safely, I think it would be ok. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites matt1215 0 #8 August 30, 2006 <<>> Why's that? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites chrissylicious 0 #9 August 30, 2006 I have only jumped in Washington and Hawaii, I thought that a parent could not sign consent for something like skydiving for a child under the age of 18. If it where my daughter I think I would want them to wait untill they are as mature as possible before making such a big choice. Im sure she would be a great skydiver, but what kind of skydiver would she be when she is faced with a life or death situation?"I will stick you with a rope"- ME Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Deuce 1 #10 August 30, 2006 QuoteIs it legal there? If so, and she is mature enough in your, and her parents' eyes, then go for it. It has been authorized by our governing body here in the USA (USPA) for 16 year olds to learn to skydive since way before I was born. There are tons of places here where we routinely train 16 year olds without hesitation. By the way, I am not interested in hearing anybody's "you can't sign away a minor child's rights" rants either. It's fine in a lot of places and if you are not cool with it then don't let your kid do it. Mike Mullins' kids have all proven what's possible at younger-than-normal ages. Once again: if it's legal there, her parents are cool with it, and you know she is going to get decent instruction, then I say let her do it. Chuck Yeah, I solo'd a glider at that age and a couple Cessna variants before I was 18. I think the same rules still apply. The biggest danger to her is the dropzone, not the droppers. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites livendive 8 #11 August 30, 2006 QuoteMy niece, who has recently turned 15, is adamant she wants to start AFF. She jumped tandem when she was 13, and pretty much right after landing asked what the minimum age was, and was told 15. Well, she turned 15 a month ago. Money is not a problem for her (since it comes out of my pocket USPA wouldn't approve of it until she turns 16 but it doesn't appear you fall under USPA's domain so that's simply a reference for you, not a requirement. Personally, I think it really depends on the kid. If she's willing to approach it with a mature attitude and listen to what she's taught, I think it's entirely possible for her to jump safely. On the flip side of that coin, would you be able to handle the guilty conscience you'd likely have if things went poorly? Blues, Dave"I AM A PROFESSIONAL EXTREME ATHLETE!" (drink Mountain Dew) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #12 August 30, 2006 If you're confident in your niece and don't mind signing the consent and footing the bill, then I see no issues. It's nobody's judgement call but yours and her parents. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites katzurki 0 #13 August 30, 2006 Luckily not a parent. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #14 August 30, 2006 I edited that first sentence just as you responded, apparently.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites katzurki 0 #15 August 30, 2006 I guess when I posted, I was really looking for evidence this has been done before and is not unheard of. I'll get video. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites guppie01 0 #16 August 30, 2006 QuoteI guess when I posted, I was really looking for evidence this has been done before and is not unheard of. I'll get video. I believe all of Mullins kids were jumping at or before 15... As stated before - more of a personal decision if you all believe she is ready for it. g"Let's do something romantic this Saturday... how bout we bust out the restraints?" Raddest Ho this side of Jersey #1 - MISS YOU OMG, is she okay? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #17 August 30, 2006 It's been done before right here in the U.S. As far as I know there were no immaturity issues with saving one's life. And that's all I have to say about that.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lisamariewillbe 1 #18 August 30, 2006 Quote As far as I know there were no immaturity issues with saving one's life. Except that video of the kid whose parents put him out of the plane and he was a complete no pull Sudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #19 August 30, 2006 Haven't seen the video. Haven't read the story. Was only referring to the case in which I'm familiar, as was asked for by the original poster. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #20 August 30, 2006 Egg-cellent addition.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Scoop 0 #21 August 30, 2006 Yeah, man that sucked. I did my first AFF at 18 but I consider myself an old head on young shoulders adn having a healthy fear of death and injury is always a good way of keeping yourself from doing stupid things. If the 15yr old 100% understands the risk and that its down to her, noone else is responsible for her (regardless of what law says), is physically fit enough, copes well under stress then go for it. I think at that age it really is on an individual basis, some 15 yr olds I wouldnt want near a road let alone jumping out of an aircraft. Others, however are great, just think of all your favourite racing drivers, they were all youngesters when they started, much younger than 15. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lisamariewillbe 1 #22 August 30, 2006 Yes and I was just reiderating that there has been a fatality of a child being taught to skydive. The videos out there and its horrible to watch. Dont have to be immature to die in this sport as a kid or a adult. Edit to add.... I hear kids are better at body positions and listening to their instructors because of their age and their ability to do as told where as adults try to sometimes re-invent the wheelSudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites NWFlyer 2 #23 August 30, 2006 QuoteEgg-cellent addition. Too bad I deleted it when I saw your response had already cleared up where you were coming from. "There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences." -P.J. O'Rourke Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites simplyputsi 0 #24 August 30, 2006 If I had tasted the air up there at such an age I would have surely not done near as well as I did in school since I would constantly be distracted. I say let her, but there still has to be that well you did bad on your homework, or test so no you can't go this weekend because you need to study. And ummmm I watched mullins boy struggle to figure out how to work a 4 wheeler, that was scary.Skymama's #2 stalker - Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #25 August 30, 2006 QuoteToo bad I deleted it when I saw your response had already cleared up where you were coming from. My new 'puter is faaaaast. I like to go fast. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Prev 1 2 Next Page 1 of 2 Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. 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lisamariewillbe 1 #2 August 30, 2006 Can she buy a house ? Join the Army? If not I dont think they should be able to skydive. No one should have to give consent to someone else to put their life on the line. Thats what her parents would be doing, personally I wouldnt do it. Granted alot have without problems. As far as maturity, Id trust a 15 yr old girl over the 19 yr old boys who start AFF. My issue is just that she cant solely make the choice to jump yet. If her parents say yes and the DZ says yes then have fun and post pics .... but make her buy her own gear... let her pack Sudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
riddler 0 #3 August 30, 2006 If you have a 15 year-old girl, keep her a LONG way from any dropzone.Trapped on the surface of a sphere. XKCD Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
katzurki 0 #4 August 30, 2006 QuoteCan she buy a house ? Join the Army? Hello? 15-year-old? Quote If her parents say yes and the DZ says yes then have fun and post pics The DZ has 15 as the minimum age. Her one remaining parent will make the decision, and I strongly assume it may be a yes. Her choice is that she does want to jump. The ultimate decision, as the one to pay for all of it, will be up to me. I'm torn between an obvious yes (skydiving family member, free packer, someone to share the fun with? hell yeah!) and a reluctant no (too young). Let's word it this way, why should I not let her start AFF? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkymonkeyONE 4 #5 August 30, 2006 Is it legal there? If so, and she is mature enough in your, and her parents' eyes, then go for it. It has been authorized by our governing body here in the USA (USPA) for 16 year olds to learn to skydive since way before I was born. There are tons of places here where we routinely train 16 year olds without hesitation. By the way, I am not interested in hearing anybody's "you can't sign away a minor child's rights" rants either. It's fine in a lot of places and if you are not cool with it then don't let your kid do it. Mike Mullins' kids have all proven what's possible at younger-than-normal ages. Once again: if it's legal there, her parents are cool with it, and you know she is going to get decent instruction, then I say let her do it. Chuck Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
pilotdave 0 #6 August 30, 2006 I think you and her parents are the only people that can make the decision based on what you know of her. In the US, you can solo a glider at 14. I soloed a plane at 16, before I soloed a car. I don't think 15 is unreasonable to skydive if she has the right attitude and can handle that kind of pressure. I don't think it's crazy for SOME 15 year olds to skydive, but I don't know her. It'd be a big responsibility on you though. Do you want that? Dave Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
frynsky 0 #7 August 30, 2006 Yeah, I know a girl who started that early, but she is a dropzone owner's kid. She had no problem with it, she obviously had been around it all her life. I think she would be able to handle the skydiving. But what would concern me is the way some girls/women, especially if they are attractive, are rushed into certain things by other skydivers. SCR's, first twenty ways, etc. If you were there to see her along safely, I think it would be ok. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
matt1215 0 #8 August 30, 2006 <<>> Why's that? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
chrissylicious 0 #9 August 30, 2006 I have only jumped in Washington and Hawaii, I thought that a parent could not sign consent for something like skydiving for a child under the age of 18. If it where my daughter I think I would want them to wait untill they are as mature as possible before making such a big choice. Im sure she would be a great skydiver, but what kind of skydiver would she be when she is faced with a life or death situation?"I will stick you with a rope"- ME Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Deuce 1 #10 August 30, 2006 QuoteIs it legal there? If so, and she is mature enough in your, and her parents' eyes, then go for it. It has been authorized by our governing body here in the USA (USPA) for 16 year olds to learn to skydive since way before I was born. There are tons of places here where we routinely train 16 year olds without hesitation. By the way, I am not interested in hearing anybody's "you can't sign away a minor child's rights" rants either. It's fine in a lot of places and if you are not cool with it then don't let your kid do it. Mike Mullins' kids have all proven what's possible at younger-than-normal ages. Once again: if it's legal there, her parents are cool with it, and you know she is going to get decent instruction, then I say let her do it. Chuck Yeah, I solo'd a glider at that age and a couple Cessna variants before I was 18. I think the same rules still apply. The biggest danger to her is the dropzone, not the droppers. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
livendive 8 #11 August 30, 2006 QuoteMy niece, who has recently turned 15, is adamant she wants to start AFF. She jumped tandem when she was 13, and pretty much right after landing asked what the minimum age was, and was told 15. Well, she turned 15 a month ago. Money is not a problem for her (since it comes out of my pocket USPA wouldn't approve of it until she turns 16 but it doesn't appear you fall under USPA's domain so that's simply a reference for you, not a requirement. Personally, I think it really depends on the kid. If she's willing to approach it with a mature attitude and listen to what she's taught, I think it's entirely possible for her to jump safely. On the flip side of that coin, would you be able to handle the guilty conscience you'd likely have if things went poorly? Blues, Dave"I AM A PROFESSIONAL EXTREME ATHLETE!" (drink Mountain Dew) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #12 August 30, 2006 If you're confident in your niece and don't mind signing the consent and footing the bill, then I see no issues. It's nobody's judgement call but yours and her parents. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
katzurki 0 #13 August 30, 2006 Luckily not a parent. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #14 August 30, 2006 I edited that first sentence just as you responded, apparently.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
katzurki 0 #15 August 30, 2006 I guess when I posted, I was really looking for evidence this has been done before and is not unheard of. I'll get video. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites guppie01 0 #16 August 30, 2006 QuoteI guess when I posted, I was really looking for evidence this has been done before and is not unheard of. I'll get video. I believe all of Mullins kids were jumping at or before 15... As stated before - more of a personal decision if you all believe she is ready for it. g"Let's do something romantic this Saturday... how bout we bust out the restraints?" Raddest Ho this side of Jersey #1 - MISS YOU OMG, is she okay? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #17 August 30, 2006 It's been done before right here in the U.S. As far as I know there were no immaturity issues with saving one's life. And that's all I have to say about that.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lisamariewillbe 1 #18 August 30, 2006 Quote As far as I know there were no immaturity issues with saving one's life. Except that video of the kid whose parents put him out of the plane and he was a complete no pull Sudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #19 August 30, 2006 Haven't seen the video. Haven't read the story. Was only referring to the case in which I'm familiar, as was asked for by the original poster. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #20 August 30, 2006 Egg-cellent addition.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Scoop 0 #21 August 30, 2006 Yeah, man that sucked. I did my first AFF at 18 but I consider myself an old head on young shoulders adn having a healthy fear of death and injury is always a good way of keeping yourself from doing stupid things. If the 15yr old 100% understands the risk and that its down to her, noone else is responsible for her (regardless of what law says), is physically fit enough, copes well under stress then go for it. I think at that age it really is on an individual basis, some 15 yr olds I wouldnt want near a road let alone jumping out of an aircraft. Others, however are great, just think of all your favourite racing drivers, they were all youngesters when they started, much younger than 15. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites lisamariewillbe 1 #22 August 30, 2006 Yes and I was just reiderating that there has been a fatality of a child being taught to skydive. The videos out there and its horrible to watch. Dont have to be immature to die in this sport as a kid or a adult. Edit to add.... I hear kids are better at body positions and listening to their instructors because of their age and their ability to do as told where as adults try to sometimes re-invent the wheelSudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites NWFlyer 2 #23 August 30, 2006 QuoteEgg-cellent addition. Too bad I deleted it when I saw your response had already cleared up where you were coming from. "There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences." -P.J. O'Rourke Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites simplyputsi 0 #24 August 30, 2006 If I had tasted the air up there at such an age I would have surely not done near as well as I did in school since I would constantly be distracted. I say let her, but there still has to be that well you did bad on your homework, or test so no you can't go this weekend because you need to study. And ummmm I watched mullins boy struggle to figure out how to work a 4 wheeler, that was scary.Skymama's #2 stalker - Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites PLFXpert 0 #25 August 30, 2006 QuoteToo bad I deleted it when I saw your response had already cleared up where you were coming from. My new 'puter is faaaaast. I like to go fast. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Prev 1 2 Next Page 1 of 2 Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. Display as a link instead × Your previous content has been restored. Clear editor × You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL. Insert image from URL × Desktop Tablet Phone Submit Reply 0
guppie01 0 #16 August 30, 2006 QuoteI guess when I posted, I was really looking for evidence this has been done before and is not unheard of. I'll get video. I believe all of Mullins kids were jumping at or before 15... As stated before - more of a personal decision if you all believe she is ready for it. g"Let's do something romantic this Saturday... how bout we bust out the restraints?" Raddest Ho this side of Jersey #1 - MISS YOU OMG, is she okay? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #17 August 30, 2006 It's been done before right here in the U.S. As far as I know there were no immaturity issues with saving one's life. And that's all I have to say about that.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lisamariewillbe 1 #18 August 30, 2006 Quote As far as I know there were no immaturity issues with saving one's life. Except that video of the kid whose parents put him out of the plane and he was a complete no pull Sudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #19 August 30, 2006 Haven't seen the video. Haven't read the story. Was only referring to the case in which I'm familiar, as was asked for by the original poster. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #20 August 30, 2006 Egg-cellent addition.Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Scoop 0 #21 August 30, 2006 Yeah, man that sucked. I did my first AFF at 18 but I consider myself an old head on young shoulders adn having a healthy fear of death and injury is always a good way of keeping yourself from doing stupid things. If the 15yr old 100% understands the risk and that its down to her, noone else is responsible for her (regardless of what law says), is physically fit enough, copes well under stress then go for it. I think at that age it really is on an individual basis, some 15 yr olds I wouldnt want near a road let alone jumping out of an aircraft. Others, however are great, just think of all your favourite racing drivers, they were all youngesters when they started, much younger than 15. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lisamariewillbe 1 #22 August 30, 2006 Yes and I was just reiderating that there has been a fatality of a child being taught to skydive. The videos out there and its horrible to watch. Dont have to be immature to die in this sport as a kid or a adult. Edit to add.... I hear kids are better at body positions and listening to their instructors because of their age and their ability to do as told where as adults try to sometimes re-invent the wheelSudsy Fist: i don't think i'd ever say this Sudsy Fist: but you're looking damn sudsydoable in this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NWFlyer 2 #23 August 30, 2006 QuoteEgg-cellent addition. Too bad I deleted it when I saw your response had already cleared up where you were coming from. "There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences." -P.J. O'Rourke Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
simplyputsi 0 #24 August 30, 2006 If I had tasted the air up there at such an age I would have surely not done near as well as I did in school since I would constantly be distracted. I say let her, but there still has to be that well you did bad on your homework, or test so no you can't go this weekend because you need to study. And ummmm I watched mullins boy struggle to figure out how to work a 4 wheeler, that was scary.Skymama's #2 stalker - Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
PLFXpert 0 #25 August 30, 2006 QuoteToo bad I deleted it when I saw your response had already cleared up where you were coming from. My new 'puter is faaaaast. I like to go fast. Paint me in a corner, but my color comes back. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
