Foiling is one of the fastest growing sailing disciplines we have recently seen, becoming commonplace in all aspects of sailing participation, from club environments and activities to professional and Olympic sailing.

Australian Sailing has developed programs and supporting resources to assist clubs and their coaches to activate, deliver and grow foiling initiatives around the country.

In early 2023 Australian Sailing will be launching its full set of foiling programs and resources for clubs and their coaches. 

The programs are designed to encourage entry, ongoing, and lifelong participation across the 4 foiling disciplines of, Wingfoil, Kitefoil, Windfoil and Sailfoil. The programs create an identifiable pathway and curriculums support the progressive skill development of participants, from their first experience, through to advanced racing techniques and knowledge.  

The Australian Sailing foiling programs will include the following: 

1. Foil-Labs - A one day course designed to give the opportunity to try foiling in a controlled and safe way, enabling participants to understand the bodies roll in controlling the foil in an unstable environment. 
2. Coaching curriculums - Discipline specific (Wingfoil, Kitefoil, Windfoil, Sailfoil) Green, Intermediate and advanced level program curriculums, providing participants with progressive skill development and racing knowledge in their chosen class. 
3. Foiling safety resources – Safety and risk management resources for clubs and coaches, enabling them to deliver foiling in a safe and manageable manner.
4. Foiling Pathways – information to assist clubs, coaches, and sailors to make an informed choice about the best way to progress in a foiling class, no matter what the sailors’ goals are.

All of the above will be housed in a new Foiling Hub on the Australian sailing resources website for ease of access.

Foiling equipment has progressed enormously in the last few years. The cost of entry level equipment now makes foiling an accessible and attractive activity for recreational and performance sailors alike.

Suitable equipment for clubs to deliver foiling programs, is available now, through the recently announced partnership with North Action Group. We would encourage all clubs and coaches looking to grow foiling to make use of this fantastic offer which provides equipment at 55% off retail prices.

Foiling classes are already attracting new groups to sailing clubs, including people who have participated recreationally in the past, and are now joining clubs to take part in racing and training programs. In addition, foiling opportunities at clubs are creating more retention opportunities for younger members to stay involved with sailing for life. 

With a positive impact on club participation and retention, is foiling something your club is considering?

The development of the Australian Sailing Foiling Program is proudly supported by the Queensland Government.