Intro to Cadets & Getting Started

Cadet curious? If you’re reading this, it means your child is interested in being a Cadet sailor. Lucky you – Cadet sailing provides incredible experiences both on and off the water. Whether your child is sailing for fun or to compete at the highest international level, this is a sport that builds fitness, skills, independence and teamwork not to mention lifelong friendships. 

Now, if you’re new to Cadets, or sailing itself, you might be feeling a mix of pride, excitement and perhaps a bit (maybe even a lot) of confusion. We’ve all been where you are now and understand what it’s like to get started.  The information here should help you understand the basics of Cadets and what it takes to get moving with confidence. And, of course, we have a large, friendly, highly supportive community to help you and your child have a great time. If you’re down at the club, feel free to ask us any questions – we’re more than happy to help!

The Two Roles in the Cadet: Helm and Crew

In a Cadet, teamwork is crucial, and the boat is operated by two young sailors, each fulfilling a distinct and vital role: the Helm and the Crew.

The Helm

Typically 13-17 years of age, the Helm, or skipper, will usually be an experienced sailor. The Helm is responsible for steering the boat and making strategic decisions during a race or training session. Positioned at the back of the boat, the Helm uses the tiller to control the rudder, directing the boat’s course. In addition to steering, the Helm also manages the mainsail, adjusting its trim to optimise speed and balance. This role requires a strong understanding of wind patterns, tactical awareness, and the ability to make quick, decisive actions. The Helm’s leadership and decision-making are pivotal to the boat’s overall performance.

The Crew

Typically 13 years of age or younger, the Crew does not need to have prior sailing experience. The Crew is stationed at the front of the boat and plays a crucial role in maintaining the boat’s balance and speed. The Crew’s primary responsibilities include managing the jib sail and assisting with sail trim to ensure the boat is moving efficiently. Additionally, the Crew is responsible for keeping an eye on the water conditions, as well as other boats, adjusting the sails and providing feedback to the Helm. Effective communication between the Helm and the Crew is essential for smooth manoeuvres and successful races. The Crew must be agile and attentive, constantly working to keep the boat optimised for the prevailing conditions.

The Relationship Between the Helm and the Crew

Together, the Helm and the Crew form a cohesive unit, each complementing the other’s strengths. This partnership fosters a deep sense of teamwork and camaraderie, as both sailors must work in unison to navigate the course and achieve their racing goals. Here’s what makes a solid team on the boat:

• Similar Ambition: It’s important that both the Helm and the Crew have the same level of ambition for their sailing. Is it just for fun? To get results in races? To go to the National Championships or perform at the World Championships? Agreeing on goals and objectives will help ensure that the level of commitment between both sailors is established and understood.
• Teaching and Coaching: The Helm, often being the more experienced sailor, should help the Crew learn about sail handling, boat balance, and racing tactics. They should patiently explain what needs to be done and why, providing guidance and support as the Crew gains more experience.
• Respect and Encouragement: The Helm should treat the Crew with respect, valuing their contributions and encouraging their efforts. Positive reinforcement and constructive feedback help build confidence and improve skills. Likewise, the Crew should support the Helm and provide feedback.
• Communication: The Helm and Crew should maintain open and clear communication with each other. Discussing plans, tactics, and any issues before, during and after sailing sessions ensures that both sailors are on the same page and can work effectively together.
• Responsibility Sharing: The Helm should involve the Crew in decision-making processes and share responsibilities. The Crew should share the workload in getting the boat ready for the water and de-rigging afterwards. This not only helps both learn but also fosters a sense of ownership and teamwork.

Pathway from Crew to Helm

Many young sailors start as crew members, learning the ropes (quite literally!) before progressing to the helm position. Here’s how that journey typically unfolds:

1. Learning the Basics: As crew, your child will gain a solid understanding of boat handling, sail trim, and the fundamentals of racing. This phase can take a few weeks.
2. Gaining Experience: With time and experience, your child will develop the skills and confidence needed to handle more responsibilities. This phase can take a few months.
3. Training and Coaching: Participation in sailing camps, coaching sessions, and regattas will provide valuable learning opportunities and exposure to different sailing conditions. Depending on age, at least one and usually two seasons as crew will get them ready to become a Helm.
4. Transition to Helm: When your child is ready, the Helm will give them the chance to take charge of the boat from time to time. We also work with the coaching team to help support crews who are ready to transition to Helm.
5. Continued Growth: As a Helm, sailors continue to learn and improve more advanced sailing strategies and techniques, refining their skills and leadership through practice, competition, and feedback from coaches and mentors.

The Relationship Between Parents/Carers of the Crew and the Helm

Just as the Crew and Helm must work together, so too must the parents of these young sailors. A successful sailing experience often depends on the collaboration and support of both sets of parents/carers. Here’s what we’ve found helps keep the ship sailing smoothly:

• Similar ambition: As with the kids, it’s helpful if both sets of parents have similar ambitions. If, for example, one set wants to go to the National Championships, but the other do not, this can cause issues. Likewise when it comes to frequency of training and/or coaching engagement. Discuss objectives early and openly.
• Communication: Keep open lines of communication. Discuss schedules, training sessions, and any logistical details. Clear communication helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that any issues are addressed promptly.
• Organisation: There’s a lot to stay on top of. Creating a shared calendar or using a group messaging app can be very helpful in staying organised.
• Costs: Typically, the Helm is responsible for the boat and all boat-related equipment and costs. Other than that, expenses are usually split between the Helm and the Crew. This includes training, coaching and race fees. It’s useful for both families to have a discussion to make clear from the start how expenses will be handled.

Equipment for your Sailor

Heading out with the right equipment will ensure your child is safe, comfortable and will enjoy their time sailing. Here’s a basic list of what they’ll need:

• Wetsuit. Sailors need a full-length wetsuit. Wetsuits come in different weights for summer and winter and if your child will sail year-round, you’ll want to get one for spring/winter and one for summer/autumn. 
• Life jacket. All sailors need a life jacket with a whistle attached. 
• Splash vest. These go over the wetsuit and under the life jacket. They keep the wind and water out and provide another layer of insulation (we recommend the fleece-lined ones). Rooster and Musto are a couple of popular brands.
• Base Layers. Worn under a wetsuit, these range from rashies to thermals. Your child should wear layers depending on the temperature to ensure they stay warm out on the water. You should have at least one set of good thermals in your wardrobe.
• Gloves. Essential in summer to protect hands from ropes and in winter to keep fingers warm. You’ll likely need a pair of long-fingered thermal gloves as well as a pair of short fingered ones. 
• Wetsuit boots. Important for ensuring a solid grip on the wet deck of the boat, these also help keep feet warm. In winter, you’ll want to combine these with a set of neoprene socks. 
• Head Gear. In summer, a visor or cap with bill will be sufficient to keep the sun off and out of the eyes of your sailor. In winter, a waterproof/thermal beanie is a must-have. 
• Neck gaitor. A lightweight, tubular piece of fabric, these help keep the sun off as well as keep your sailor warm.
• Sunglasses. A must-have. There can be extreme levels of glare out on the water, even on overcast days, and a good pair of sunglasses ensure your sailor can see well and they protect eyes from wind and water.
• Sailing Watch. A good sailing watch helps your sailor know exactly when the start of the race as well as when it’s time to get back to shore for lunch. 😉
• Kit bag. Constant exposure to wet, sandy and salty gear – coupled with the rough handling of young kids – can wear down everyday backpacks and bags. A solid, well constructed bag that can handle these elements will last well into your child’s sailing journey.
• Water bottle and wet-bag. Out on the water, your child will get both thirsty and hungry. Having a good bottle and a wet-bag that will keep food dry will keep them hydrated and fueled.

Before heading out to the shops to get stocked up, be sure to check the Sandy Bay Sailing Club Buy & Sell page.  Once you’re part of the Fleet, you can also message everyone on our Fleet V WhatsApp group and see if anyone is selling what you’re after. And, of course, if you have any questions about brands, models, etc. just ask any of the kids or parents/carers down at the club.

Want to get started?

If your child is keen, here are the best ways to get started.

• Come & Try: If your child has never tried a Cadet before, we run regular Come & Try sessions across the year. The 3-hour session provides an introduction to the boat, overview of the Helm & Crew roles and on-water experience. You can see the full calendar here.
• Cadets for Beginners: No experience necessary! Think of it like Tackers for 2-person boats. This programme teaches kids from 9-17 how to sail as a Crew or Helm and learn the basics for joining our fleet. We typically run these sessions in October & November each year. You can see the full calendar here.
• Casual try-out: If there aren’t any dates that are convenient, just get in touch with us to arrange a casual sail with one of our experienced Cadet sailors. They’ll take your child out on a short sail, show them the basics and answer any questions they may have. Just email us on FleetVPresident@gmail.com and we can work with you to get your child out on the water.
• Cadet Green Fleet: For those who want to go a bit further, we offer a Cadet Green Fleet training programme in Terms 1 and 4 to help orient those new to Cadets, teach the basics and get them ready to sail in our main fleet. You can see the full calendar here.

Ready to join the Cadet fleet?

Once your child feels comfortable, there are a couple of things they need to join the fleet and participate in our regular training sessions and regattas.

• Someone to sail with: Finding an available Helm or Crew, depending on which your child needs, to sail with can take a little time. As soon as we know your child wants to begin, we’ll do our best to help you look for a suitable partner. 
• A boat: If your child is crewing, you don’t need to worry about a boat as that is the Helm’s responsibility. If your child is going to helm, you’ll either need to rent a boat or purchase one. More details about those options here.
• Take a look at the SBSC New Parents/Sailors Guidebook which has a lot more information about getting started in sailing at SBSC.