Youth Sailing...what it is & what it isn't

The Hillsboro Inlet Sailing Club’s Youth Program is a volunteer-led, non-profit introduction to sailing for children ages 8 to 18 years old. It is conducted only twice a year, one session in the Spring, and the next in the Fall. Sessions are only 4 consecutive Saturdays.

Over the years we have handled many questions from parents who are seeking private lessons, summer camps, and competitive regattas. What sets us apart from other Sailing Clubs that offer these things?

1. Volunteer led: We are fortunate to have many club members who are willing to contribute their time and talents to our youth program. But club members are also involved in their own participation in sailing.

2. Non-profit: We don’t make any money off this program, in fact, with the rising cost of insurance, it is becoming ever difficult to even justify.

We are also asked about giving the children trophies or hosting an end of season party.

We are not conducting a full semester or yearly program. Again, a session is simply 4 lessons.

We have chosen instead to focus on enjoyment, development, and increased participation. We worry less about childhood achievement and more about developing lifelong sailors.

Here are four core values:

1. Inclusivity: regardless of your skill or background, there is a place for you here.

2. Intentional Skill Development: accomplished through structured lesson planning, coach training, and frequent feedback.

3. Family Balance: Reasonable time commitments that allow kids to be kids.

4. Promoting Lifelong Enjoyment of Sports: we want the experience to be so positive, so encouraging, that every child will want to make this activity a part of their life, long-term…. regardless of whether they pursue the activity competitively or not.