LOWER & MIDDLE SCHOOL | Grades K-7

This spring, 47 kindergarten to seventh-grade students signed up for an exciting and unique opportunity: learning to sail. The sailing program, hosted by Charleston Community Sailing (CCS) and supported by volunteers from Ashley Hall and the Charleston Yacht Club, brought together a group of enthusiastic girls eager to develop skills on the water. From overcoming fears to learning new sailing techniques, these young sailors experienced growth, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment that will stay with them for years. 

Confidence on the Water

One of the program’s most inspiring outcomes has been the participants’ development of confidence. Sailing was a new challenge for many of the younger sailors, especially those in the “guppy” class (kindergarten and first grade). At the beginning of the sessions, some were hesitant to get on the boats, unsure of what to expect. However, as the weeks passed, those same children were eager to hop aboard each week, smiles wide as they sailed confidently on the water.

Experienced sailors also played a significant role in helping their peers. The older and more experienced participants took on leadership roles, assisting the younger sailors with everything from rigging the boats to showing them how to steer. This peer-to-peer support created a positive, encouraging environment where everyone could learn together.

Overcoming the Water Comfort Test

A critical aspect of the program involved a “water comfort test,” designed to help students feel at ease in the water. The girls had to get into the water, which was colder than expected for the program’s start. There was some initial concern among parents about the frigid temperatures, but the instructors assured everyone they had experience managing these situations. The girls showed remarkable resilience, with many facing the chilly water without hesitation.

Throughout this challenge, the instructors emphasized the importance of staying calm and composed, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Learning to take deep breaths and remain steady in the water became an important lesson that translated into increased confidence both on the water and in their everyday lives.

The Life Skills Gained from Sailing

While sailing is undoubtedly fun, the lessons learned extend beyond just how to handle a boat. Independence and perseverance were key themes of the program. Sailing requires participants to leave their comfort zones, deal with wet clothes, and manage unpredictable weather conditions. For many, these were new and challenging experiences. But as the weeks passed, the girls learned to embrace these challenges, pushing themselves in ways they never thought possible.

By the end of the program, the young sailors had not only learned the technical skills of sailing, like how to steer the boat and adjust the sails, but also developed valuable life skills. They became more independent, learning to take responsibility for their actions on the water. This independence, combined with the ability to overcome adversity, is something they will carry with them long after the sailing sessions are over.

Acknowledging Volunteers and Support

The success of this program wouldn’t have been possible without the support of many dedicated volunteers. Special thanks to Windy Key and Caroline Main from CCS, and to Jeffrey Stasz, an Ashley Hall parent, who all played pivotal roles in organizing the program. Also, thanks to Ashley Hall faculty member Mia Smith, who has been instrumental in helping the younger sailors. Smith’s sailing experience and familiarity with the students made her an invaluable resource in guiding them through each lesson. Additionally, Walker Ewing ’32, a junior instructor and Ashley Hall student, was invaluable with the youngest group, demonstrating key techniques to the girls and serving as a role model for leadership and teamwork.

Parent volunteers also played an essential role in the program’s success. They supported the program in various ways, from helping with logistics to cheering on the kids from the Burgie Bar at the Charleston Yacht Club. Their involvement made the program more enjoyable and created a supportive community around the sailing experience.

A Bright Future for the Program

Looking ahead, the sailing program’s future is promising. There are discussions about expanding it to a twice-yearly offering—both in the spring and fall—which could provide more opportunities for young sailors to gain exposure to the sport. With the recent hiring of a new executive director at CCS, there are high hopes for the program’s continued growth and development. Sailing is not only about the technical aspects of the sport but also about the personal growth and life lessons that come along with it.

Overall, the spring sailing program was a huge success. The confidence, independence, and sailing skills growth have been remarkable, and the feedback from participants, volunteers, and parents has been overwhelmingly positive. As the program expands and grows, the hope is that even more children will have the chance to experience the life-changing benefits of sailing. Whether they go on to pursue sailing further or carry the lessons they’ve learned into the future, these young sailors are already equipped with valuable skills that will serve them well in life.

Looking ahead, there’s hope for a fall program as well. This would provide another chance for students to return to the water and build upon what they’ve already learned. Expanding the program to two seasons—spring and fall—would allow even more kids to enjoy the benefits of sailing and develop key life skills in a fun, supportive environment.

To all the volunteers, parents, and participants, thank you for making this experience so special. We look forward to seeing what’s next for this incredible program!