Australian Sailing has announced the launch of the new Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.G. Award, a values-based recognition program that will be presented at all Zhik Youth Sail events.
The Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.G. Award celebrates youth sailors who demonstrate outstanding character both on and off the water, recognising not just how they race, but how they treat others, respond to challenges, and contribute to the sailing community.
The award is built around seven core values represented by the acronym S.A.I.L.I.N.G.:
S – Sportsmanship
A – Attitude
I – Integrity
L – Learning
I – Inclusion
N – Never Give Up
G – Gratitude
Together, these values highlight the behaviours that define positive youth development in sailing; respect, resilience, fairness, curiosity, belonging and appreciation.
“The Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.G. Award is about recognising the behaviours that truly define our sport,” said Ben Callard, Australian Sailing Head of Community Support and Events. “While results matter, character matters more. We want our Zhik Youth Sail events to be environments where young sailors learn respect, resilience and integrity and this award shines a light on those who lead by example.”
Up to two awards may be presented at each Zhik Youth Sail event. Any registered participant who displays one or more of the S.A.I.L.I.N.G. values is eligible for nomination. Nominations can be submitted by fellow competitors, parents, coaches, officials, volunteers or spectators via the online Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.G. Nomination Form which will be available during the events.
Recipients will be selected by the event Organising Authority and Australian Sailing, with presentations taking place at any time during the regatta. This year we thank our long standing sponsor in Ronstan for providing their Clearstart watches as prizes across the events.
By introducing the Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.G. Award, Australian Sailing reinforces its commitment to creating safe, welcoming and values-driven environments where young sailors can thrive, developing not only as competitors, but as people. The Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.G values align with the Australian Sports sector Play Well Strategy where we believe “Everyone has a place in sport”.
For more information, visit www.sailing.org.au
