How do you define what makes a good diver

[Thalassamania]

You know, this was such a nice positive thread, (one which I can't really add more too!)

Then I see these and think such not nice thoughts.....

To me, the essense of a good diver is much more than skills. It's entirely the attitude of the person combined with the passion they have for the sport and generousity they offer other divers. Many hear have done justice to describing this. That said, some of the 'Great Divers' may not meet the criterea of good divers IMHO.

They may not even be good people, but they are a damn site better than most in the water and I thought that was what we were discussing.

 

[ArcticDiver]

So now George Irvine III and Bret Gilliam are no good divers?

A Good Diver is a professional. Mastering a skill set is not the same as being a professional. Being a professional has nothing to do with income. It has everything to do with the whole person, some of whose characteristics I mentioned in my post and that have been mentioned in some others.

Having never met either of these people nor had any discussions with either of them it would be irresponsible of me to classify either.

 

[Thalassamania]

A Good Diver is a professional. Mastering a skill set is not the same as being a professional. Being a professional has nothing to do with income. It has everything to do with the whole person, some of whose characteristics I mentioned in my post and that have been mentioned in some others.

Having never met either of these people nor had any discussions with either of them it would be irresponsible of me to classify either.

Let me assure you that without a humble bone between them, either will dive circles around both of us.

 

[spectrum]

*Diving with a spirit of continuous improvement.
*Being a considerate reliable buddy
*Being true to your inner self when you want to dive but know it may not be the right time or place.

I guess I have some room for growth.... I can live with that.

Pete

 

[Rick Murchison]

... young, gorgeous ...

HA!
There's a lot to be said for old fat & ugly, my young friend!
Rick

 

[Rick Murchison]

Sure, a diver that has great buoyancy and trim, and strong skills are something that is desired in any diver. But, I'm always looking for the determined student. The student that has a true zest for learning more. If a diver has a proper attitude, then the skills will fall into place. I've had many a student that came into the class and looked like a manatee on crack in the water. But, they kept on trying. Those are usually the divers that end up going from OW to DM with me.

Now here's a point I think is worth it's own elucidation...
A good diver is a perpetual student, who enthusiastically seeks lessons in every dive... lessons in technique, in skill, in physics, biology, wonder...
Another of my little mantras is "When I surface from the dive I think I didn't learn anything on, it's time to quit, for I am missing something, and I am dangerous."
Rick

 

[Cacia]

Let me assure you that without a humble bone between them, either will dive circles around both of us.

yea...I'll buy that.

And you could extend the analogy to Michael Debakey...

Michael Ellis DeBakey is an internationally recognized and respected physician and surgeon, noted for his pioneering work in the field of cardiovascular surgery, as well as for his innovative research into this and other fields of medicine. He is credited with inventing and perfecting scores of medical devices, techniques and procedures which have led to healthy hearts and productive lives for millions throughout the world.

.

he is not humble or a warm fuzzy.
In fact, I have noticed some of the biggest egos are the best surgeons.
I kind of like the point that you don't have to be humble. You rule out a lot of talent by requiring them to be nice in order to be counted.

 

[HowDidIGetIntoThis?]

3 core skills
Good judgement.
Good bouyancy.
Good fin work.

Prerequisite to those points would be good technical knowledge and lots of practice?

 

[Minipinny]

A good diver to me is someone who dives within his or her limits and is always looking to improve and update their skills

 

[Diver0001]

HA!
There's a lot to be said for old fat & ugly, my young friend!
Rick

I'm sure there is but I just can't remember what...

R..