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WYC Junior Sailing Program

Our Mission

The mission of the Wawasee Yacht Club Junior Sailing Program is to teach young people sailing and seamanship in a safe, fun, and structured environment that promotes sportsmanship, self-discipline, self-reliance, and a respect for nature and fellow sailors.

The goal is to develop in each child an appreciation for, and a love of sailing; and confidence in his or her ability.

The program is open to all children ages 8 through 15.

2024 Schedule - Choose a week, then choose a session. Two sessions max per sailor. Class sizes are limited

Week 1 Classes (6/24 - 6/28):

Basic AM: SOLD OUT
Basic PM: SOLD OUT

Week 2 Class (7/1 - 7/5):

Basic AM: SOLD OUT
No Afternoon Session

Week 3 Classes (7/8 - 7/12):

Basic AM: SOLD OUT
Basic PM: SOLD OUT

Week 4 Classes (7/15 - 7/19):

Basic AM: SOLD OUT
Advanced PM: SOLD OUT

Week 5 Classes (7/22 - 7/26):

Basic AM: SOLD OUT
Advanced PM: SOLD OUT

Levels of Instruction

Basic
Recommended for ALL sailors ages 8-13. Sailors will be grouped daily according to experience, size, and ability. New or less-experienced sailors will focus on the more basic elements of sailing, including boat handling, wind awareness, and safety.

Newer, smaller sailors may initially sail with a partner, however, will transition to solo sailing as basic skills are mastered and physical ability is demonstrated.

All sailors will be increasingly and appropriately challenged as skills are developed and proficiency is shown. Destination “voyages” are common. More experienced sailors will be introduced to the fundamentals of racing.

Boat types: Optimist, O’pen Bic, Sunfish, 420

Advanced (Racing)
Recommended for experienced sailors ages 13- 15. Sailors will focus on practicing advanced boat handling techniques, racing skills, and team-work aboard multi-crew boats. A variety of boats will be used.

Advanced sailors must be more physically and emotionally mature, in addition to having completed multiple Basic classes. Advanced sailors will be encouraged to crew aboard Lightnings or E-Scows, and/or to race Sunfish during WYC fleet racing.

Boat types: O’pen Bic, Sunfish, 420, Lightning, Scows

SOLD OUT - Waitlist Below

Frequently Asked Questions

When is WYC Junior Sailing '24?
The Junior Sailing program takes place over 5 weeks beginning June 24th. Each session lasts for one week, Monday through Friday. Classes are held in the morning, or in the afternoon. Schedule details and class availability can be found above.

When do I need to register by?
After record-breaking attendance last year, everyone involved with WYC Junior Sailing expects this year's program to be another outstanding experience for our young sailors and their families. Class sizes are limited primarily by the number of boats we own. We expect that many classes will reach capacity by early February. Please register early to ensure that your junior sailor can participate in this year's program.

Who are the instructors?
Our dedicated and professional instructors will be leading all classes to ensure each participant receives the highest level of attention and instruction possible. Our experienced instructional staff includes junior sailing graduates, senior associate instructors, and WYC volunteers.

What if there is inclement weather or no wind?
Classes meet rain or shine, regardless of wind condition

Junior Sailing Awards

The Wawasee Yacht Club recognizes two Junior Sailing participants each year with awards that have been endowed in memory of former members. These awards are presented at the WYC End-of-Season Awards Banquet on the Sunday evening of Labor Day weekend. Award recipients will be notified in advance and are invited to attend the awards program with their families.

The B. W. Duck Memorial Award is presented annually to the WYC Junior Sailing participant who is considered to be the "best sailor" of the season. The recipient shall have demonstrated excellence in boat handling, seamanship, and conduct upon the water. The honoree shall have his or her name engraved upon the B.W. Duck Award, which shall remain on display at the Yacht Club.
The Alfred Tag Snook Award is presented annually to the WYC Junior Sailing participant who best demonstrates "overall excellence" in the Junior Sailing class. The honoree will have demonstrated the Corinthian Spirit through outstanding classroom work, a high level of sportsmanship, respect for others, and sound sailing skills.