RYA NI support boosts volunteer engagement at County Antrim Yacht Club

As the 2025 sailing season gathers momentum, County Antrim Yacht Club has celebrated the success of its early-season volunteer and membership engagement events, supported by RYA Northern Ireland’s ‘We’re All In’ funding.

We’re All In is an initiative whereby clubs can apply for up to £400 of funding to support and engage volunteering projects.

At County Antrim Yacht Club, We’re All In funding supported running a first aid course, helped organise an evening dedicated to building an engaging sailing programme for the season ahead and assisted hosting a boardgame night to help build a sense of community within the club.

At the boardgame night, approximately 30 members, families, volunteers and sailors gathered for an evening of information, food, and fun. The session began with a whistle-stop presentation of the season ahead, outlining plans for racing, training, and inclusive events for both adults and children.

This was followed by a club supper and board games, providing the perfect informal setting for reconnecting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones. Volunteers old and new had the opportunity to find out how they could get involved in the upcoming season, with many already stepping into regular roles as safety boat crew and race officers.

Club organisers were delighted with the response. Sailing Secretary and Training Captain, Sheela Lewis said: “We set out to re-engage our members and support our volunteers, and we achieved that.

“The turnout and enthusiasm were fantastic, and many of those who came are now actively helping to deliver this season’s activities.”

The club plans to repeat the format in future, keeping the friendly, relaxed atmosphere that proved so effective. With no charges for club boat use or training this year (outside of summer courses), accessibility remains a key priority.

Looking ahead, the club is working to support volunteers in three key areas:

• Ongoing volunteer recognition
• Visible financial support for training
• Freely available resources to keep participation high (e.g. no cost for boat hire)

With the season now in full swing and feedback from members overwhelmingly positive, it’s clear that County Antrim Yacht Club has successfully charted a course for a vibrant, community-driven year on the water.

Like County Antrim Yacht Club, RYA Northern Ireland recognises that volunteers are the backbone of the sailing community in Northern Ireland.