yasailing.org

Young American Sailing Academy (YASA) is a public not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating opportunities and support for youth sailors. Founded in 2017 and recognized as a 501(c)(3), the academy develops young sailors through hands-on experience, coaching, and participation in competitive sailing. Its team is based in western Long Island Sound, with members drawn from across the United States.

YASA grew from a junior big-boat team established in 2013, focused on introducing a new generation to offshore sailing. Starting with day and coastal races on Long Island Sound, sailors gradually took on longer challenges and greater responsibility aboard their boats. The program has competed in major offshore events, including the Newport Bermuda Race, first sailing it in 2016 aboard the Tripp 41 High Noon and returning in 2018 on the R/P ’63 Gambler. Its campaigns have also involved boats such as a J/105 and an M32.

YASA offers campaign-based sailing programs for individual races and specific boat classes.