2023 NSYC High School Sailing
Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 11:30 AM (CST)
to Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at 2:30 PM (CST)
(Add to calendar)
NSYC High School Sailing Club
The High School Sailing Club (HSSC) provides sailing instruction and opportunities in a relaxed, safe, fun, and collaborative atmosphere. Any currently enrolled (or rising freshman) high school student, from any school, may join the HSSC.
Previous sailing experience is not required, but you DO need to be a competent swimmer. The club offers sailing instruction for beginners, as well as racing opportunities for experienced sailors. Qualified members may compete in regional regattas, racing against other high schools. We meet and sail at Park Avenue Boating Facility in Highland Park, on Lake Michigan.
Safety is the top priority of the HSSC. Aside from an occasional bump, cut, or bruise, we have a clean safety record. We attribute this to the following:
- Our lead instructors are certified by U.S. Sailing and are certified in First Aid, CPR and AED (on premises).
- Adults supervise all sailing activities off and on the water, using motorized inflatable boats while coaching and assisting sailors.
- Students are not allowed to launch if dangerous conditions such as lightning, high winds, or high waves are present or expected.
- Instructors consider each individual’s skill level in relation to weather conditions before allowing them to sail.
- Adult instructors routinely monitor the weather and carry emergency contact devices.
- Students are required to wear life jackets and dress for cold water protection.
Beginning students learn to sail the Sunfish, a one-person, single sail, centerboard boat, and may progress to the Club 420, a sloop-rigged, multi-person, center board boat—the standard class for high school and college level racing.
A complete list of necessary clothing and equipment is provided by instructors. A limited supply of life jackets, wet suits, and spray tops is available on a first come, first served basis, but sailors are encouraged to purchase their own equipment for the best fit and comfort. Instructors can advise as to what equipment works best and where to find it.
The HSSC is operated by the North Shore Yacht Club which provides boats and equipment, instructors, coaches, and other adult volunteers. Scholarships covering club fees, and personal equipment for students in need can be made available. Parents of club members are encouraged to help on shore during sailing sessions, provide snacks, and assist coaches with other tasks.
The HSSC meets from June to late October (weather permitting). Meeting dates and times are announced at the start of each season. Members are NOT required to attend all meetings but are encouraged to come as often as possible.
How to Join the High School Sailing Club
Please visit the NSYC Website, “Membership” tab for current fees and registration. There are two parts to becoming an official member of the HSSC:
Part One: All members of the HSSC MUST be current members of the North Shore Yacht Club. High school students may obtain NSYC membership in one of two ways:
A. If the student’s family has a full membership in the NSYC, the child already has NSYC member status. Go on to Part Two.
B. Students may apply for an annual Junior Membership in the NSYC. Applicants may select a
calendar year membership (Jan.-Dec.) or an academic year option (Aug – July). Part Two: Once NSYC membership is verified, the student may become a member of the High School Sailing Club by completing an application (co-signed by parent or guardian) and submitting the HSSC fee.
In addition to these fees, students who choose to participate in regattas may incur additional race registration and transportation fees.
Visit www.northshoreyachtclub.com for contact information and up-to-date details about the High School Sailing Club, or email highschooolsail@northshoreyachtclub.com