Dave and Shirley skydiving share a lifelong passion for freefall that began on their first tandem jump years ago. What started as a bucket list dare quickly turned into a shared hobby, with each trip strengthening their teamwork and reshaping how they approach adventure together.
Today they log jumps at multiple dropzones, mentor new skydivers, and carefully track gear, weather, and safety metrics. Their combined experience offers a practical look at what it takes to progress from first jump to regular formation skydiving while keeping fun at the center of every exit.
| Skydiver | Total Jumps | Primary Discipline | Current Gear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dave | 2,850 | Formation Skydiving (FS) | Swoop Vector 3, Rigger Supply Altitude2 |
| Shirley | 2,310 | Relative Work (RW) | Velocity Chest Rig, Sabre 3 Main |
| Combined Years | 18 | Coach & Mentor | Slot Partner since 2012 |
| Fav Altitude Range | 10,000–14,000 ft | Training & Fun Jumps | Main + Reserve Parachutes |
Training Progression and Coaching Approach
From First Flip to Formation Exits
Dave and Shirley built their skills through a structured training path that moved from static-line basics to accelerated freefall and then into coaching others. Early mistakes in body position taught them the value of discipline, while consistent coaching seminars kept their technique sharp.
Shared Learning in the Air and on the Ground
As a pair, they practice timing, altitude awareness, and clear communication on every load. They break down complex routines into drills, using video reviews and post-jump debriefs to refine entries, formations, and parachute turns together.
Equipment, Gear, and Dropzone Logistics
Maintaining High-Performance Parachute Systems
Both jumpers rely on meticulously maintained main and reserve parachutes, with regular repacks and airworthiness checks scheduled around their busiest weekends. They coordinate gear choices based on wind reports, aircraft type, and the experience level of the jump group.
Streamlining the Jump Day Experience
Arriving early, they run through detailed checklists that include altitude calculations, equipment sign-off, and contingency planning for off-landings. This methodical approach helps them manage larger load sizes while keeping safety margins comfortable and predictable.
Performance Highlights and Milestones
Competition Scores, Records, and Formation Sets
Over the years they have competed in several national formation skydiving events, logging hours in back, belly, and head-up configurations. Their most memorable milestone was helping a student run successfully exit 12 of a 24-way formation, a sequence that required precise timing and smooth communication.
Teaching, Mentorship, and Community Impact
By mentoring newer skydivers, they contribute to a safer dropzone culture while expanding their own instructional toolkit. Their joint appearances at local clubs and online channels highlight practical safety checks, tandem tips, and realistic expectations for first-time jumpers.
Getting Started and Long-Term Progression
- Start with a solid AFF or tandem jump to build initial comfort with altitude and freefall orientation.
- Follow a structured coaching timeline that emphasizes body position, altitude management, and clear communication.
- Track your jumps, gear performance, and weather conditions to spot patterns and accelerate improvement.
- Join regular group loads with experienced jumpers to practice entries, formations, and safe break-offs.
- Continue education through seminars, coaching weekends, and community events to stay sharp and enjoy the sport long term.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many jumps does it typically take to feel comfortable in freefall with Dave and Shirley’s guidance?
Most students report solid freefall stability by the end of their eighth to twelfth jumps, especially when following the structured coaching plan Dave and Shirley recommend, with consistent practice and focused body-position drills.
What is the minimum experience level required to join their formation skydiving sessions?
They usually ask for at least 20–30 solo jumps, a stable belly-to-earth posture, and the ability to follow basic altitude and traffic pattern instructions before integrating into more advanced group work.
Can beginners tandem jump with Dave and Shirley to learn the basics before solo training?
Yes, tandem flights with them serve as an accessible introduction to skydiving, allowing beginners to experience freefall while absorbing coaching cues that make subsequent AFF tracks smoother and more confident.
How do Dave and Shirley adapt their coaching when weather or aircraft constraints change the day’s plan?
They use the extra time for theory sessions, video analysis, and detailed debriefs, turning weather holds into opportunities to refine decision-making, risk assessment, and gear handling without adding unnecessary pressure.