This was shared with me today from Steve Murray of Murray’s Marine (a great guy and a great sailing shop):
Are we focused on FUN . . . first ?
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THE SECRET TO RAISING A PRODIGY (#5095)
In addition to giving kids early and fun access to the water via sailing dinghies, I don’t see almost any kids putting around in prams and skiffs with small outboards.
From the moment I got my “trusty” British Seagull 40+ engine around the age of nine, I was on the water at every opportunity, exploring Santa Cruz Harbor and Sierra lakes, trailed by an unfortunate blue haze of traditional outboard exhaust.
I learned about engine maintenance (thank you, British Seagull!), rules of the road (avoid larger vessels), patience (no planing), and the joy of being in complete control of one’s course and destination. That experience brought out the Tom Sawyer (and occasionally the Huck Finn) in my early boating.
A frequent reason for US Sailing Level 1 instructor candidates to not pass the certification on the first try is a lack of powerboat skills, which are obviously vital for sailing coaches. I can understand why: while most prospective coaches may have had access to Optis, El Toros, and CFJs, they may not have experienced the delight of powered dinks.
Seems like it would be a hell of a popular junior yacht club activity, but perhaps I am trying to re-introduce the buggy whip…
– Chuck Hawley
This was put out a few years ago from a kid’s perspective:
1. To have FUN!
2. To improve skills.
3. To make new friends.
4. To be good at something.
5. For excitement.
6. To get exercise.
7. To play as part of a team.
8. For the challenge.
9. To learn new skills.
10. To win.
Research shows children always put FUN at the top of their list. Let’s remember why our children want to play sports, and we’ll all end up winning!
– Mark Lammens