About High School Sailing

High School Sailing is the fastest growing segment of sailing in the United States. Hoover Sailing Club supports all Central Ohio high school teams and make it our goal to make a place for every sailor that comes to us. Some schools have formed teams, however school sponsorship is not required for participation in our program and independents are always welcome (may have different competition eligibility). We supply boats, coaches, trailers, and more. A growing number of sailors come twice weekly to practice, regattas are scheduled many Saturdays or Sundays, and we run 2 one-week High School Sailing Clinics in the summer.

How much does it cost?

A fee is assessed accounts for professional coaching, safety boats and maintenance to racing boats.

Spring fee: $200
Fall fee: $250
Regatta Entrance Fee: $20 each person per regatta. Paid at the regatta to the host.
Uniform: One time cost of $40 per sailor for a pinnie

ADDITIONAL TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: High School Sailing clinics and summer programs are offered as a way to further enhance sailing skills. Download our Application for more information. 

What do I need?

• Completed Registration Forms and payment
• US Coast Guard Approved Sailing Life Jacket (“PFD” – personal flotation device)
• Closed toe shoes
• Enthusiasm and commitment

What’s the time commitment?

High School Sailing has two seasons: Spring and Fall. Spring season starts early in April and goes till the  middle of May. Fall season starts late August and goes till the end of October. The more time spent in the boat is the best way to grow as a sailor. Read more about practices and regattas.

What do we sail?

Most HS sailing is “fleet” racing. It is done in double-handed one-design dinghies such as the Club 420. All fleets are registered with Midwest Interscholastic Sailing Association (MISSA).

What is MISSA?

MISSA was established as the regional governing body for high school sailing in the Midwest. Our objective is to further the sport of sailing in Midwest secondary schools, and to provide a standardized set of rules and procedures for competition.

What happens at a high school regatta?

Teams, determined by the head coach, are expected arrive at the host regatta by 8:00 AM to check in together. Families are expected to make arrangements for their sailor to get to the regatta either by driving them or carpooling.

Each high school team has at least four members, two skippers and two crew. All boats are entered into a rotation. The A skippers and crew take to the water and sail the first two races. In the meantime the B skippers and crew wait their turn to sail. After two races, the boats are swapped, the A teams jump out allowing the B team to jump in the boat ready to sail two races. This A/B flip-flop continues throughout the regatta. Since only half of the kids are sailing at a time, it allows for a lot of fun interaction between teams while waiting. A team’s score is the total of both their A and B scores added together. Races are generally short, with the goal of both A and B teams completing 6 races each day. Novice crew can also be swapped for alternate crew. This helps with fatigue and to allow all to participate.

Are there opportunities to sail on my team this year?

YES! Both skipper and crew positions are needed in fall and spring. If you are interested in joining the team, however lack the experience, we will teach you. The host club offers a robust Learn to Sail program with a few weeks focused on high school sailing through intensive training and clinics. The information page has a list of participating schools.