World Sailing has launched a new Inclusive Development Program aimed at transforming participation and creating fully inclusive pathways within the sport.
The first edition of the new Inclusive Development Program was held in Singapore where 32 participants from 12 countries completed sessions on and off the water to improve their coaching credentials and lay the groundwork for further growth.
The World Sailing Inclusive Development Program replaces and improves upon the Para Sailing Development Program (PDP) and has three levels:
- IDP-F (Foundation) – Aims to increase inclusive grassroot participation.
- IDP-C (Coaching) - Aims to develop existing coaches and create more coaches with an understanding of inclusion.
- IDP-P (Performance) - Aims to develop an inclusive athlete performance pathway.
Hannah Stodel, Para World Sailing Manager, said, “The new Inclusive Development Program will have a long-lasting and wide-reaching positive impact on the Para World Sailing community and provide new opportunities to develop the sport worldwide. We are committed to supporting the growth of the sport and the professional development of sailors, coaches and program administrators, and the three levels offered by the IDP are key pillars in helping inclusive sailing to thrive.”
The programme in Singapore followed the Foundation level, with attendees setting their focus on creating inclusive programmes for beginners. The course saw attendees first complete the IDP over three days from 24–26 October, with sessions both in the classroom and on the water, rounding off with an inclusive regatta organised by the participants.
Hosted at PAssion WaVe @ Marina Bay, a community club operated by the People’s Association, where the extensive facilities proved a great location for sailing experiences and showcasing inclusive sailing.
Participants from sailing programs in Saudi Arabia, Brunei and Vietnam were all looking to take on new-found knowledge to develop inclusive sailing upon their return. Other countries attending including India, Korea and Japan have already experienced inclusive sailing and the course was able to build upon this foundation to further enhance activities, while building an understanding between the Asian nations through sailing.
Following the conclusion of the IDP, participants joined an outward-bound experience in Palau Ubin from 27–29 October hosted by Metazone. Here they were joined by local participants to put inclusion in action with school sailing sessions.
The latest edition of Inclusive Development Program took place in Italy in November 2023, where the focus was on the IDP-C Coaching course.
