Australian Sailing is thrilled to announce the first three coaches selected for the Youth Squad camp scheduled to take place from 9 – 13 April 2025 at Sorrento Sailing Couta Boat Club.

Launched in 2023, the Youth Squad camp aims to develop self-reliant sailors, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed at overseas or significant domestic regattas. 

We’re proud to introduce our round one coaching team: 
Int 29er - Jim Colley (OLY) 
Int 420 – Jaime Swavley 
iQFOiL - Dante Olivieri

These coaches will work closely with Youth Squad members, focusing on both on-water and off-water development. This will be complemented by online webinars, ensuring a well-rounded approach to training and preparation. 

Australian Sailing remains committed to enhancing the depth of talent among youth sailors, with the Youth Squad program serving as a guiding opportunity towards the Pre-Emerging Program or securing an athlete scholarship through the State Performance Pathway Program (SSPP) on Olympic equipment.

 Reflecting on his appointment, Olympian Jim Colley, shared, "It feels like only yesterday that I was sailing a 29er. That experience sparked my passion for learning and skill development in the youth class, laying the foundation for my transition to the 49er Olympic equipment. I'm thrilled to coach the sailors at the Youth Squad Camp and support their preparation for success at international or significant domestic regattas.”

As part of their role, Youth Squad coaches will also have the unique opportunity to support sailors at the selected international regattas, working in collaboration with Class Associations to ensure the best outcomes for the Australian teams participating in the regatta. 

The next announcement regarding the Youth Squad coaching team will follow the Class Nationals for the ILCA, Nacra 15, and Kite classes, scheduled for mid-January 2025. The full 2025 Youth Squad will then be announced in February 2025.
 
For more information on the selection criteria for the 2025 Youth Squad can be found on the AS Youth website.