Irish Sailing announces the next edition of the Junior Topper and ILCA4 squads, which will run from October until the Youth Nationals in April. The squads are tailored to curious and competitive sailors who are eager to perform on the international stage.
The squad programs will be led by Irish Sailing coach Liam Glynn, but a holistic approach is taken with input from strength and conditioning, psychology and nutrition supports furthering both athletic and personal development.
The Topper squad program: will consist of seven weekend camps of domestic training, with an estimated squad size of twelve.
The ILCA 4 squad program: will consist of both domestic and international camps with one weekend camp, four extended camps over school holidays and one international competition. The estimated squad size will be six.
Selection for both squads have been pushed back compared to previous years giving more time for sailors to prepare especially those transitioning between classes. It is very important that sailors consider classes appropriate to their size, weight and learning opportunities. It is often beneficial to try different classes at the 15 and under level (optimist, topper, feva etc.) whilst specialisation is more important when the sailor is over 15, especially for those seeking to enter the Academy programs in the ILCA6 and 29er. It is encouraged that sailors reach out to club or Irish Sailing coaches for advice on class progression. The ILCA4 squad in particular may not be appropriate for sailors more suited to double handed classes.
Selection will be based on evaluation of sailing skillset, physical capabilities, and important mental skills such as resilience, competitiveness and openness to new ideas. Selection will be based off the following indicator events in addition to relevant high profile event results in pathway classes;
Selection Events
Topper:
- 14-15 September – Irish Sailing Selection Training (Venue tbc)
- 22 September – Topper Ireland Traveller (RSTGYC)
- 6 October – Topper Ireland Traveller (LDYC)
ILCA 4
- 21-22 September – Irish Sailing Selection Training (RIYC)
- 28-29 September – ILCA Ireland End of Season (MYC)
Further details on squad programs and applications will be detailed in the coming weeks. Please do not hesitate to contact our development manager Sean Evans (sean.evans@sailing.ie) or junior coach Liam Glynn (liam.glynn@sailing.ie) if you have any questions.