Founding and Early Years
The Students’ Underwater Club Bergen (SUB) was founded on March 15, 1962, with a modest beginning of 24 paying members in its first year. Despite its small size, the club quickly established a solid foundation by creating laws, safety rules, and guidelines for sport diving training. SUB also developed agreements for mandatory medical examinations and insurance coverage for its members, ensuring that safety was a priority from the very start.
The name “SUB” was chosen for its international resonance, a strategic decision that helped the club gain credibility and facilitated the acquisition of diving equipment from abroad. The original logo featured the inscription “SUB-Marin,” reflecting the club’s connection to underwater exploration.
Scientific Contributions and Community Involvement
During its first year, SUB’s activities extended beyond recreational diving. The club contributed to scientific research, assisting prestigious institutions such as the Bergen Aquarium, the Norwegian Institute for Seaweed Research, the Bergen Maritime Museum, the Institute of Marine Research, and the Biological Station. These early collaborations set the tone for SUB’s ongoing commitment to both scientific and community work.
In 1962, 12 members completed the theory exam, and 4 of them became trained sport divers. This pioneering year laid the groundwork for the club’s activities in the following years, setting a standard for both the quality of training and the level of member involvement.
Growth and Achievements
The club’s popularity soared in the 1960s, with membership numbers rapidly increasing to between 70 and 80. By the mid-1970s, SUB’s membership had grown to over 110 members. The club was highly active during this period, recording an impressive 600 dives annually, with 653 dives logged in 1978 alone.
In 1963, SUB joined the Norwegian Diving Association (NDF) shortly after its formation. This affiliation marked a significant milestone, further integrating SUB into the broader diving community. When NDF became a part of the Norwegian Sports Confederation in 1970, SUB followed suit through its association with Hordaland Dykkekrets. SUB also played a vital role in the establishment of the Diving Council at the University of Bergen (UiB) in 1973, which oversees all diving activities at UiB and advocates for the interests of divers. SUB’s involvement has been instrumental in shaping the council’s work.
Cultural and Sporting Milestones
The Central Bathhouse served as a key meeting point for SUB members in the early years. In 1964, the average attendance at Central Bath was 32, with peak gatherings reaching up to 58 members. The camaraderie and shared passion for diving made these gatherings a highlight for the club, fostering a strong sense of community among members.
Sporting achievements have also been a part of SUB’s legacy. In 1979, the club proudly earned a gold medal in the 4x100m relay and a bronze in the 1500m event at the National Championships in fin swimming, held in Bergen. Additionally, SUB’s underwater photographers achieved notable success in both national and international competitions, showcasing the diverse talents within the club.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
The history of SUB-BSI is a testament to the dedication and passion of its members. From its humble beginnings to its significant role in both the scientific and diving communities, SUB has consistently championed safe diving practices, community engagement, and the promotion of underwater exploration. Today, SUB continues to honor the traditions established in its first year while evolving to meet the needs of a growing and dynamic membership.