RYA Scotland and Scottish Student Sport Announce New Partnership to Support Student Sailing

RYA Scotland is thrilled to have agreed a new two-year partnership with Scottish Student Sport (SSS), aimed at strengthening opportunities for student sailors across Scotland.

The collaboration will focus on key areas including event delivery and volunteer support, ensuring that sailing remains accessible and welcoming for all participants.

As part of the agreement, the volunteer-led Scottish Student Sailing Sports Group will continue to play a vital role in supporting events and creating development opportunities for students. Both organisations share a common ambition: to make sailing inclusive and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The competitive student sailing programme is already underway, with an upcoming League Weekend scheduled for 31 January – 1 February.

Commenting on the new Partnership, RYA Scotland CEO Finlo Cottier said: 

“Student sailing plays a vital role in helping young people continue their passion for our sport beyond school, and provides an opportunity for many to discover sailing for the first time.

RYA Scotland is delighted to strengthen our partnership with Scottish Student Sailing and Scottish Student Sport, working together to deliver the highest quality instruction, racing, and leisure opportunities for university students across Scotland.

Our strategy is built around People, Places, and Communities, and the student community brings incredible diversity and opportunity to those wishing to sail in Scotland.”

Sailing Lead at Scottish Student Sport Julia Stenhouse added:

“We are delighted to sign a new partnership with RYA Scotland, strengthening our shared commitment to creating a more visible, collaborative and engaging sailing environment for students.

This agreement will help grow participation, enhance workforce development and raise the profile of student sailing through closer collaboration on events, club development and communication.

We look forward to working closely with RYA Scotland to deliver meaningful opportunities and impact for student sailors across Scotland.”