Next-Gen Sailors Take the Helm in GMSC's Junior Learn to Sail Program
A full week of skills, smiles, and sailing spirit on Lake Maumelle...
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The Grande Maumelle Sailing Club’s July Junior Learn to Sail program brought together young sailors, passionate instructors, and committed volunteers for a high-energy week of learning and laughter on the lake. Held each summer as a members-only benefit for children and grandchildren, the program continues to be a key part of GMSC’s mission to promote lifelong sailing and community involvement in Central Arkansas.
This year’s session drew a diverse mix of first-timers and returning skippers. Campers worked in teams, switching between Optis and Sunfish as they built comfort and confidence in light air and warm summer water. With daily sessions covering rigging, tacking, sailing upwind, and righting a capsized boat, the curriculum offered both challenge and fun—emphasizing safety, seamanship, and teamwork.
Teaching the Sport, Building the Community
Junior Learn to Sail is more than a summer camp—it’s how GMSC helps shape the next generation of sailors. It provides a welcoming, structured space for young people to learn foundational skills while forming friendships and building confidence. For the club, it’s also a way to share the values of responsibility, resilience, and sportsmanship that sailing uniquely teaches.
This year’s program was led by Head Coach Gillian “Lou” Shapley, a GMSC alum and newly certified U.S. Sailing Small Boat Instructor. “Lou did a tremendous job managing the week and inspiring the kids,” noted one board member. “It’s incredible to see someone who came up through this very program now leading it.”
From Sponge Relays to Tiller Time: Fun on and off the Water
Of course, no sailing camp is complete without a little fun—and this year didn’t disappoint. Kids raced boats across the cove, practiced precision docking, and cooled off with capsize drills that often ended in joyful splashes. Sponge relays added a playful twist to teamwork, and an onshore scavenger hunt gave everyone a chance to catch their breath between sails. Every activity—from rigging races to knot-tying games—was designed to build skill while keeping spirits high. By the end of the week, even the quietest sailors were confidently steering, trimming sails, and encouraging their crewmates.
Shout-Out to Our Volunteers
A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who made this program possible:
- Head Coach: Gillian “Lou” Shapley
- Assistant Coaches: Caroline Brockinton, Emerson Shapley, Mary Mays, Amelia Manatt, Samuel Manatt, Thomas Eoff
- Safety Boat Support: Rachel Eoff and Jessica Manatt
- Parent Volunteers: April Eoff and Mary Mays (snacks), along with many others who helped with drop-offs, equipment, and moral support
Club Volunteer Spotlight
We had tremendous support from our GMSC volunteer base this year—including parents, grandparents, and dedicated club members who stepped up in meaningful ways throughout the week.
Special thanks to Nicole Claas Moore, GMSC’s Junior Learn to Sail Program Chair, who took the lead on organizing this year’s camp. Nicole oversaw registration, curriculum development, and volunteer coordination, and provided steady on-site leadership throughout the week. From classroom prep to daily check-ins, she made sure everything ran smoothly—and did it all with warmth and professionalism. Her vision and effort were central to the program’s success.
We’re also deeply grateful to:
In addition to the instructional team and parent helpers, several GMSC members stepped up throughout the week to lend their time, tools, and encouragement. Whether assisting at the dock, helping launch boats, or simply stopping by to cheer on the kids, these behind-the-scenes contributions made a big difference. A big thank to:
- Jeremy Shapley, for dedicating countless hours to boat repairs and making sure our fleet was water-ready.
- Lou Shapley, who not only led the instructional team but also worked behind the scenes preparing curriculum, cleaning boats, and mentoring assistant coaches.
- Jon Claas and his helpers, who cleaned and prepped the Sunfish fleet for the campers.
- Jeff Olm and Werner Schwarz, our skilled motorboat operators.
- Yong Chung and JonAnn Chiles, who provided instructor lunches.
- Parent volunteers: Yong Chung, Erika Warriner, Karren Rinehart, and Justin Wittenburg.
Support from the GMSC Community
Staying Involved and looking ahead.
Junior sailors and their families are encouraged to continue their sailing journey by participating in club activities such as Tiller Time, crewing on boats, and volunteering at regattas or events.Need help getting started? Reach out to Tracy Sykes, GMSC Membership Chairperson, for suggestions on how to stay involved and grow in the sport.
Stay tuned for more youth and adult sailing opportunities at gmsc.org. Watch for next summer’s registration in the spring!