"One of the primary goals of PSA is to provide opportunities for kids on the Seacoast to learn about the exciting sport of sailing. As a results of the great ongoing support of our local sponsors, we are able to create opportunites for the less fortunate youth of our area with this scholarship program. which we plan on continuing for years to come" says Kevin McCoole, PSA Commodore. 

Scholarships will be awarded based on need and an expressed interest in learning to sail or improving their sailing skills. An essay composed by the potential sailor entitled, "Why I want to learn to sail", or "Why I want to improve my sailing skills" is all that is required. Scholarships are open to any youth between the ages of 8 and 18 living in and around the seacoast of NH. Please include in your essay your parent's contact information. 

The aim of The University of New Hampshire Community Sailing Centre is to develop solid sailing skills for the beginner to advanced sailor and racer with emphasis on safety and fun. Sailors are taught in boats commensurate with their age and ability. Last summer over 100 kids participated in the program. The Junior Sailing Program consists of seven one-week sessions from June through August. Lessons are taught in JY Trainers, Sunfish, FJ’s, 420’s and Lasers. The program starts with the Junior Sailing Program, graduating to the Junior Racing Team Program and ultimately to the Northeast Junior Olympics held at the end of the season.  

“PSA has been a great supporter of our program over the years, providing coaching for our kids, and providing the opportunity to participate in PSA weekday racing series and weekend regattas. We are very excited that PSA is further increasing their support thru the PSA Youth Sailing Scholarship Fund!”  Diana Weidenbacker, Director of the UNH Community Sailing Centre.    

Deadline for essay submission is June 15, 2008. Essays should be submitted to: PSA PO Box 4427 Portsmouth, NH 03802-5054 or e-mailed to commodore@sailpsa.org. Winners will be announced on the PSA website by June 31, 2008. 

For questions regarding the UNH Community Sailing Centre, contact Diana Weidenbacker, Director of the UNH Community Sailing Centre at either dianaw46@comcast.net or call the UNH Community Sailing Centre at 603.868.5189.