ETYSA Sailing Program
- Elaine Berberich
- Apr 27
- 2 min read
Fairfield Harbour has many treasures, but one of the best during the summer is ETYSA (Edward Teach Youth Sailing Association) located out of Blackbeard Sailing Club in your backyard.
At the April 11 Yacht Club meeting, Clare Brock gave an informational program to members.
Clare has been with ETYSA since it was founded in 2010 and has seen the camp grow through the efforts of many dedicated volunteers. Many Fairfield Harbour residents have had grandchildren spend the week with them while attending this sailing camp.
When the organization was founded, one of the goals was to provide a sailing camp for youth 8-18 that was high quality but affordable. One of their goals has been to try to teach kids sailing who might not be able to afford this sport, and scholarships are offered based on need.
The camps last a week and campers are encouraged to attend more than one camp to perfect their skills. The goal is to get out on the water on Day One. But—there is more to the camp than sailing. Campers learn to work as part of a team, understand the mechanics of sailing, and how to take care of their sailing vessel—all while making new friends and developing cooperative skills. Many campers not only come back as campers, but go on to be volunteers at summer sailing camps with ETYSA.
Clare said that one of the things she and the other volunteers are most proud of is how sailing here during the summer program has resulted in youth using their sailing to be part of high school and college teams including University of Charleston, University of Southern California, UNC, NC State, and other high ranking sailing schools. West Craven, New Bern, and Epiphany High Schools all have sailing programs and use Blackbeard Sailing Club. One team member who was a camper the first year ETYSA started has sailed in many national high-ranking competitions, was a member of the US National team, and almost made the US Olympic team.
For those interested in recommending this camp to a grandchild, friend, or family member, the best way is to go to https://etysa.org/. There is also an ETYSA Facebook page, which has up-to-date information. Information on donating to this very worthy cause is also available on the website.
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