Coach Development in Action
One of NJYSF’s core pillars is coach development – strengthening youth sailing across New Jersey by investing in the instructors and mentors who shape junior sailors. This commitment was on full display throughout May and June.
Expanding the Instructor Pipeline
Over the past month, NJYSF organized two US Sailing Small Boat Instructor Level 1 courses in Ocean County, providing 30 aspiring instructors with the opportunity to earn sailing’s foundational teaching certification.
These courses equip instructors with the skills to teach sailing safely and effectively through classroom learning, on-the-water instruction, risk management, lesson planning, and coaching best practices.
By bringing more certification opportunities closer to home, NJYSF is helping local clubs build a stronger pipeline of qualified instructors while creating leadership opportunities for experienced youth sailors ready to give back to the sport.
Supporting Instructor Preparation at BBYRA Clubs
NJYSF continued its coach development efforts by organizing instructional content for the BBYRA Instructors Prep Day on June 17. The event brought together more than 50 new and returning instructors and junior coordinators from sailing programs across the upper Barnegat Bay as they prepared for the summer season.
Focused on knowledge-sharing and coaching excellence, the day featured sessions on rigging fundamentals, instructional best practices, sailor engagement, and on-the-water safety led by coaching all-stars Clay Johnson, Jamie Wasco Wright, and Jeff Bonanni. Participants also exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and strengthened connections with fellow instructors.
Investing in People, Strengthening Programs
Strong youth sailing programs start with strong instructors. Through certification courses and regional training opportunities, NJYSF is committed to developing skilled, knowledgeable coaches who inspire the next generation of sailors.
As summer programs get underway across New Jersey, the impact of these efforts will be felt both at the whiteboard and on the water, where well-prepared instructors help young sailors build confidence, skills, and a lifelong love of sailing.
To learn information on coach development opportunities and other Foundation initiatives, visit New Jersey Youth Sailing Foundation website and follow @newjerseyyouthsailing on Instagram.