Coaching the Basics is a benefit for those becoming LMSC members.
Also availble to current LMSC members, it is a mentoring partnership with experienced volunteer members dedicated to helping new or developing sailors learn the basic sailing skills necessary for independent sailing.
For the beginning sailor, participating in Coaching the Basics means “Accept the Challenge! Learn to sail with confidence!”
Our mentoring partnerships rely on a dedicated corps of volunteers who are happy to coach basic skills for the new sailor. We assist adults 18 years and older (14 to 17 with parent or guardian on site) to develop the skills necessary for safe, competent and confident sailing here on Lake Murray. Our goal is to help the beginner fully realize the joy and fun of sailing.
We use small boats, primarily the 19 foot Flying Scot (pictured above). Its simplicity, stability, ease of handling and responsivness make it an excellent platform for skill development.
Scheduling Once the new sailor and mentor partner together, they form a team to arrange mutually agreed on schedules. Clinics for select skills, such as capsize recovery, may be scheduled for specific dates on which all new sailors are invited to participate.
Coaching Philosophy Our program employs a “mentoring” model to promote development of basic sailing and boat handling habits. In general, a mentor will partner with a single new sailor. Couples are welcome if desired. More can participate at need. We maintain a library of textbooks outlining fundamental sailing skills. These are available for the new sailor to check out. Our volunteer mentors are happy to help you practice any of the skill sets described.
Registration - To request a mentor partnership and register for up to 16 hours of coaching , email coordinator, Ryan Gaskin.
Important Information follows. Please read before participating in your first on-the-water coaching experience.
1. *Wear soft soled shoes. Boat or “grippy” water shoes are better for wet surface traction, but ordinary sneakers or athletic shoes will be OK. Do not wear open toed sandals or thongs.
2. Bring sunscreen or sunblock. If you normally wear sun protective clothing outdoors, be sure to wear it for these sessions.
3. Wear sun shades. Your eyes need the protection.
4. Layered clothing is best for unexpected weather. A waterproof bag for the extra layers and a light rain jacket (for spray in frisky conditions) are recommended.
5. Bring plenty of water (or your favorite electrolyte beverage). Two 20 oz. bottles should be considered a minimum. Dehydration on the water is much more common that most folks realize.
6. **Bring a properly sized US Coast Guard approved PFD with you.
7. Wear a cap, or better, a hat with 360 degree brim. UV protective clothing is a good option. Use sunscreen even if the day is cloudy. Indirect UV is just as harmful as UV from full sun.
8. Sailing gloves are recommended. Lines used to trim sails can exert a strong pulling force in higher breezes. Handling lines with bare hands in breezy conditions can become uncomfortable. Sailing gloves can be purchased locally from West Marine or online.
* Risk of injury from wearing open toed or hard sole shoes prohibits us carrying students wearing these items.
**Safety requirements prohibit us carrying students not bringing USCG approved Personal Flotation Devices. If you do not have an approved device and cannot borrow a suitable one from a friend, West Marine or your local sports outfitter offers basic models at nominal cost.