The program was centralized and began employing a full-time director in 1975, when it also changed its name to the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service.
Should an applicant be hired, s/he must successfully complete a four-day NSLS training camp with all new and returning lifeguards immediately prior to the start of the supervision season, during which there are further evaluations of skills based on performance during mock emergency scenarios.
[citation needed] The format of the series was modeled after an Australian professional lifesaving circuit called the Nutri-Grain Surf League.
It has aimed to focus on increasing the level of participation among in the sport of lifesaving among Nova Scotia lifeguards, mainly through providing regular access to competition.
Prior to the existence of Surf League, Nova Scotians would often travel to competitions in Ontario, Quebec and the United States.