Introduction to the RYA National Junior Squad Programme 

Aiming to give young sailors the best start in their racing careers.

Introduction

The RYA National Junior Squad programme supports around 170 of the most talented British sailors between 11 and 16 years of age. It offers the sailors access to a highly subsidised world class national training programme designed to help them go on to achieve international success in the future. The RYA employs a specific National Class Coach (in each class), who is directed and managed by the RYA Junior Racing Manager, to oversee the development of the sailors.

The Training Programme

The training programme usually commences in October or November and consists of a comprehensive range of national squad training weekends, off-water workshops and international competition support to nurture the sailors towards achieving success at key international regattas the following summer. The programme takes place at a number of venues nationwide in order to develop each sailor s ability to compete successfully both on inland and coastal waters.

What support is available?

The RYA National Junior Squad programme supports around 170 of the most talented British sailors between 11 and 16 years of age. It offers the sailors access to a highly subsidised world class national training programme designed to help them go on to achieve international success in the future. The RYA employs a specific National Class Coach (in each class), who is directed and managed by the RYA Junior Racing Manager, to oversee the development of the sailors.The training programme usually commences in October or November and consists of a comprehensive range of national squad training weekends, off-water workshops and international competition support to nurture the sailors towards achieving success at key international regattas the following summer. The programme takes place at a number of venues nationwide in order to develop each sailor s ability to compete successfully both on inland and coastal waters.

• As part of the National Junior Squad programme sailors will normally:
• Attend all National Junior Squad training sessions at coastal and inland venues.
• Benefit from a specific needs based training programme.
• Have the opportunity to access remote support from the National Squad Coach.
• Receive sports science support including fitness testing and information and advice on psychology, fitness, meteorology, nutrition, hydration, growth and maturation.
• Receive 2 x fitness tests per annum, and receive specific advice from RYA Youth & Junior Programme Physiologist
• Access international competition grants to international regattas.
• Access discounted Musto National Junior Squad jackets.
• Receive transitional advice from a National Junior Squad Coach and RYA Junior Racing Manager to help progression into a Recognised Youth Class.

Classes

• Optimist
• Topper
• Cadet
• Mirror
• RS Feva
• Laser 4.7 
• Bic Techno 293OD

How to qualify?

In order to gain selection sailors must normally meet the eligibility criteria and compete in the National Junior Squad selection series detailed on the class specific pages and the relevant class association websites.

Whats next?

Following participation in the National Junior Squad programme sailors are encouraged to progress into one of the RYA recognised Youth classes. Once they have got their boat sailors will go straight into the Open Training programme organised by the relevant Class Association/ RYA. A number of sailors will also be invited to receive additional RYA Volvo Transition Training throughout the winter in order to assist them in making the jump into the demanding Youth Classes. Further details regarding RYA Volvo Transition Training can be found on the RYA Volvo Transition Training specific pages.