You do not need to arrive as an experienced racer—but you should arrive with recent dinghy experience, prepared to listen, learn, and perform the coach's instructions.
A sailing camp, clinic, or similar course can help build the boat-handling skills expected at evaluations. If you are completely new to sailing, ask StFYC which learn-to-sail or beginner pathway is appropriate before registering for an evaluation.
Explore StFYC youth sailing programs ↗01Use the official channelsStart with Riordan Athletics and StFYC, introduce yourself, and ask which current pathway fits your experience now that the fall season is underway.
02Confirm evaluation eligibilityAsk StFYC to confirm current eligibility and scheduling. New sailors should expect recent, relevant dinghy experience to be part of the participation requirements.
03Prepare before you arriveOn-water experience matters, and preparation helps you make the most of it. Learn sailing terms, boat parts, rigging, knots, points of sail, tacking, and basic race concepts. Watch high-school sailing videos and be ready to listen and perform the coach's instructions.
04Bring the right mindsetBe focused, coachable, mentally prepared, and a good sport. Complete each task, show genuine interest, and support the sailors around you.
Where does the team train?+
St. Francis Yacht Club is the primary base. Depending on the practice plan, the team may also use Golden Gate Yacht Club or Coyote Point. Confirm the location for every session through official team communications.
What boats does the team race?+
Flying Juniors, commonly called FJs. They are double-handed dinghies with a skipper and crew, widely used in high school and college racing.
Do I need prior racing experience?+
No prior racing or high-school sailing experience is required to express interest. However, StFYC currently requires new sailors to have recent, relevant dinghy sailing experience before participating in evaluations. Preparation, determination, coachability, and learning the terminology are important, but they do not replace the on-water experience requirement.
What happens after evaluations?+
StFYC communicates outcomes directly to participants. Possible placements may include Varsity, Junior Varsity, Beginning or Learn to Race weekend courses, or a combination of a team and weekend course.
What if I am not placed on the fall roster?+
Keep sailing. StFYC may recommend Beginning or Learn to Race weekend courses, clinics, or another combination that builds experience for a future evaluation. A roster decision can be a starting point rather than the end of a sailor’s journey.
What does the team expect from sailors?+
Attendance, accountability, sportsmanship, careful boat handling, and a team-first attitude. Sailors are expected to listen to coaches, respect teammates and family volunteers, help rig and de-rig efficiently, support substitutions, and contribute to a welcoming team.
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