As the sailing preseason gets underway, the team is already hard at work sharpening their skills and setting ambitious goals
for the months ahead. Practices not only focus on handling the boats and adjusting to unpredictable wind conditions, but also on strengthening communication and trust within the crew, two elements that can make or break a race.

Success in sailing is rarely about one sailor’s ability alone; it depends on the team’s ability to respond quickly to sudden shifts in weather, currents, and competitors’ tactics. With greater success comes greater goals as well.

“For me, the biggest goal this season is for our team to move up in the state rankings,” said Kaia Burris ’27. Competing in regattas against schools with top programs who field highly experienced sailors is challenging. Still, Burris remains optimistic.

“We sail against schools from all over California, and the competition is definitely pretty tough, but I think we’re in a good place to take that next step,” she added, highlighting the team’s steady progress over the past year.

That progress comes from rigorous preparation. According to Nolan Balocki ’27, the team trains multiple times a week to stay sharp.
“Two practices a week with occasional team meetings and focused practices,” Balocki explained. A typical practice day requires full commitment, often stretching long past the school day. “Pack bag, get to school, school ends, drive to StFYC, rig boats, sail, de-rig, shower, drive home, homework, go to bed,” he said, capturing the demanding rhythm of a sailor’s routine.

The St. Francis Yacht Club (StFYC), where the team trains, provides direct exposure to the challenging waters of San Francisco Bay conditions that test both skill and endurance. For Balocki, the goals this year are ambitious, but within reach.

“Personal goal: get top three at most State Championships regattas,” he said.The team is striving for consistent top-five finishes, with particular attention on the Rose Bowl Regatta, one of the most prestigious high school sailing competitions in the country. “I’m excited for the Rose Bowl regatta as it is always competitive and the last one I got top five with my partner,” Balocki shared.

Beyond results, sailing offers valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability. Balocki said, “Always have a plan B. Try one thing, and if it doesn’t work you can always bail.” In a sport where wind shifts in seconds and strategies change just as fast, the ability to adjust can be the difference between victory and defeat. With teamwork, preparation, and dedication, the sailors are determined to continue improving and make this year their strongest yet.