Sail Grapevine

 

 

 

 

Program Goals

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What are the primary goals for the sailors?

The Junior Sailing Team program aims to help sailors develop independence and problem-solving skills both on and off the water. Additionally, sailors are encouraged to become confident as captains of their own boats, display sportsmanship, and continuously learn new skills while having fun.  Sailing is one of the unique sports where individuals learn self-reliance, but also team building and participation skills as well.

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Practice Expectations

What does a typical practice look like?
Practices generally follow a three-part structure:

1. On Shore: Meeting to rig the boats and discuss practice objectives.

2. On Water: Engaging in races, games, long sails, and drills to improve boat handling and speed.

3. Debrief: Returning to shore or the classroom to de-rig and discuss the session.

 

What happens if bad weather is forecast ahead of practice?

If storms or unsafe conditions are predicted, a notification will be sent to parents via GroupMe. In these cases, practice will be held in the club room from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM for an abbreviated indoor session.
 

What happens if bad weather occurs during practice?

The coach monitors the weather closely for safety. If conditions become unsafe while sailors are already on the water, the coach will call them back to shore immediately to de-rig and move to the safety of the classroom or club room.
 

What are the expectations for behavior?

All sailors must sign a social contract at the beginning of the season that outlines the behavior expectations. The conduct policy is strict: a sailor receives one warning, and the next infraction results in dismissal.

 

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Parent Responsibilities for Practice

How should I communicate my sailor's attendance?

Parents should RSVP via GroupMe Polls so the coach can plan accordingly, and they must ensure their sailor has the appropriate gear.  The coach sometimes posts recommended gear based on the weather forecast.

 

What items should my sailor bring to every practice?

Sailors are expected to arrive with the appropriate gear to ensure they are prepared for time on the water. This includes:

• Life Jacket (PFD): Must be worn at all times while on the water.

• Water Bottle: To stay hydrated during drills and long sails.

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Including a hat, sun protection, and closed-toe shoes (water shoes or similar).

• Towel and Change of Clothes: For after the debrief and de-rigging process

A helpful Race Team checklist for sailors can be found here.

Some recommended gear can be found here.

How early should my sailor arrive before practice?
Sailors should be “rigged and ready” by practice start time.  Arrival time should be based on how much time your sailor needs to "rig" (set up) their boat. Parents are expected to help with the rigging process and must remain on-site until the boats have officially launched. Or the coach has cleared your sailor as able to efficiently self-rig their own boat. This is the ultimate goal.

How can parents help their sailors at the start of a practice session?

Parents are asked to help their sailors get their boats from the pin, "rig" (put together) their boats and remain at the location until the boats are launched.  Parents can also assist their sailors with launching their boats and parking their dollies.

What time should parents arrive for pickup?
Parents should arrive at approximately 4:30 PM (or 30 min prior to the scheduled end time of practice). This allows time to assist the sailor with "de-rigging" (disassembling) the boat at the conclusion of the session, as well as returning the boats to the pin.

Where is the best place for parents to watch during practice?

The designated practice observation location is Sand Bass Point.  Sometimes parents will be invited to observe from a boat during practice.

What if my sailor needs to arrive late?  

The coach will keep the sailors close by for the first 15 minutes after launching.  After that, parents will be responsible for ensuring that their sailor safely joins up with the coach and the rest of the sailors on the water.  If sailors are not yet comfortable sailing out of the “swamp” on their own, please ensure they are on time for practice.  Please notify the coach in advance if your sailor is will be late.

What if my sailor needs to leave early?  

The coach should be made aware in advance of any need for sailors to leave early.  The coach is unable to leave other sailors in order to escort any sailors in early, therefore sailors should be comfortable sailing in on their own if they need to leave early (generally race team ready). Parents will be responsible for ensuring the safety of their sailors coming in early from practice. 

 

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Parent Responsibilities for “Away” Regattas

What DFW area Regattas does the Junior Sailing Team typically participate in?  

The Junior Sailing team typically participates in all TSA regattas hosted in the DFW Metroplex.  The scheduled can be found here.

 

What is expected of Parents for “Away” Regattas?  

With exception of the Coach, GSC and GCSEF are volunteer lead organizations, and as such relies heavily on volunteers for every event to be successful.  So that the Coach can focus on getting sailors ready for regattas, parents are asked to volunteer as much as needed.  Typical involvement includes:

• tow the trailer for the junior sailor boats

• transport the dollies (if not transported with the junior boats)

• tow the trailer for the coach boat

• help Coach launch and re-trailer the coach boat

• help load and unload the trailers before the Regatta, at the Regatta, and after the fact

• coordinating snacks and and drinks for the Coach to have on the coach boat during the Regatta

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What does a typically “Away” Regatta schedule look like?  

Each Regatta will post a NOR (Notice of Race) with the schedule for each day.  Coach will advise what time to arrive to have time to rig, check in and have a short on shore meeting.  Expect to be at the Regatta from 8 AM to at least 3 PM each day of the Regatta.
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Events and Volunteering

How can I provide feedback or suggestions regarding the program?
The program welcomes your input to help with continuous improvement. You can share your thoughts, suggestions, or ideas directly with The Coach or any member of the GCSEF Board.

How can I help ensure GSCEF is successful?
GCSEF is a volunteer led program and Parent volunteers are needed several times throughout the year.  This includes the annual Winter Regatta, which the Junior Sailors host for the adult sailors as a thank you for all of the support throughout the year, as well as a toy drive for Fort Sill sailors. Also for the annual Grapevine Grand Prix regatta, which Grapevine Sailing club hosts on the TSA circuit every year in May.  Singupgenius are sent out and parents are asked to participate.  There are also events throughout the year that serve as fundraising events for the Junior Sailing program, such as Mayor’s Cup Regatta (with dinner and Auction) and Zest Fest.  It is helpful for the Junior Sailors to have a visible presence at these events.

How can I get more involved with the organization or volunteer?

If you are interested in taking on a larger role, there are opportunities to join the GCSEF Board or serve on a specific committee. Additionally, you can help by sourcing or donating items for the Mayor's Cup Auction, which serves as a fundraiser for the GCSEF program every Spring.  Items such as gift cards, sailing gear, or unique local experiences are beneficial for the auction.. For any of these opportunities, simply reach out to the board or the Coach.