Academy Teams
Academy Teams are made up of youth aged 7-17 who have recently completed a Learn to Sail program or are competent sailors and are ready for more advanced coaching, training and racing.
Squad Training | Competitive Racing | Regatta Pathway | Athlete Development
Junior Fleet
Junior Fleet is designed for sailors who are ready to move beyond lake sailing and develop confidence in open-water conditions at Hollywell Sailing Squadron.
This program bridges the gap between Learn to Sail and competitive club racing.
Term 2 2026
Price: $440
Ages 7-14
Dates: Sundays February 1st – March 15th (8 sessions)
Time: 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent
OutThere Fleet
After gaining the essential sailing skills from Out There Sailing at Oxenford sailors are invited to join the Out ThereFleet at Hollywell Sailing Squadron
Sailors will learn to sail the Hobie Wave Catamarans and Open Skiff Bics in open water conditions.
Key skills gained here involve navigating stronger winds, tides, channel markings, and other boats.
Term 2 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 12-17yrs
Dates: Saturdays May 2nd – June 13th (7 sessions)
or Sundays May 3rd – June 14th (7 Sessions)
Times:
Morning Session 8:30am- 11am
Race Session: 11am – 1:30pm (SOLD OUT)
Afternoon Session: 2pm-4:30pm
Sunday Session 9am-11:30am
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent
Academy Squad
Race Squad is designed for sailors who have demonstrated competency through prior training or race experience and are ready to train within a competitive team environment.
This program focuses on advanced race training in open-water conditions at Hollywell Sailing Squadron. Sessions are structured around improving boat speed, tactical awareness, start sequences, mark roundings and race execution.
Sailors train alongside other committed athletes, preparing for club racing, interclub events and regattas.
Thursday Term 2 2026
Price: $252
Ages: 7+
Dates: Thursdays April 23rd – June 18th (9 sessions)
Times: 4pm -6pm
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent
Sunday Term 2 2026
Price: $168
Ages: 7+
Dates: Sundays April 26th – June 14th (6 sessions)
Times: 9am-11:30am
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent
Looking to buy a boat?
Our Academy sailing teams sail Optimist and ILCA (Laser) dinghies, depending on age, weight, and experience.
– Under 14 years – Optimist dinghy
– 14+ years or 50kg+ – ILCA (Laser)
For new and used boats, spare parts and regatta charters, we recommend visiting NB Sail Sports, a trusted supplier for many of our sailors.
Families can also find great options through Facebook Marketplace, or by speaking with our Academy coaches and sailing parents for advice and recommendations.
Sailors joining the OutThere Fleet often transition into catamarans, with the Nacra 3 or Nacra 4.5 being popular choices.
new to racing?
1. Getting started with club racing is easier than you think. Here are a few simple steps to help you get on the start line:
2. Click the link for your class of boat: Off the Beach Dinghy Racing or Off the Beach Catamaran Racing.
3. Read the Sailing Instructions for the latest race information.
4. Speak with your coach to confirm you’re ready to start racing.
If you need guidance, contact the Race Officer or your Divisional Representative (details can be found in the Sailing Instructions).
Show up and give it a go — everyone starts somewhere!
Dinghy Racing: Saturdays from 12:00pm
Catamaran Racing: Saturdays from 11:00am
While the Youth Squad schedule follows the school term, club racing runs year-round.
See the Racing Calendar for upcoming race days and events.
FAQ
Who are Academy Teams for?
Academy Teams are designed for youth sailors aged 7–17 who have completed a Learn to Sail program or have demonstrated competency and are ready to progress into structured training and racing.
These programs are ideal for sailors looking to build confidence in open-water conditions, develop race skills and progress along the competitive pathway at Southport Yacht Club.
Please note: Academy Teams are not beginner programs. Sailors must have prior sailing experience or be assessed by our coaching team.
Where does training take place?
Academy Teams train at Hollywell Sailing Squadron, providing sailors with experience in real open-water and race conditions.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety is our priority. If there are any local lightning, hail or gale wind warnings in place, training will not proceed.
Sessions may be postponed or rescheduled where possible. In some cases, land-based theory or tactical sessions may be delivered instead of on-water training, depending on conditions.
We closely monitor local weather updates and will communicate with families if any changes are required.
Do Academy sailors compete in regattas?
Academy sailors have the opportunity to compete in club racing, interclub events and external regattas.
We provide guidance, coaching and support for sailors who wish to take part, and encourage participation as part of their development. However, competition is not compulsory, sailors can progress at a pace that suits their confidence and goals.
Our coaching team ensures every sailor is given the opportunity to experience racing and represent Southport Yacht Club if they choose to.
Not sure which team suits my child?
If you’re unsure which Academy Team is the best fit, our coaching team can assess your child’s experience and recommend the most suitable program.
Contact academy@sycgc.com.au
Placement is based on sailing competency, confidence in open-water conditions and readiness for structured training.
We’re here to support your child’s progression and ensure they are placed in an environment where they can develop, feel challenged and continue building their skills.
