Issue date
We talked to Volvo Sailing… Have a Go! Instructor Paul Moriarty about how he got into coaching, highlights, and his tips and advice for other coaches around New Zealand.
So Paul, are you excited about the Volvo Sailing Have a Go season?
Yes, this will be my third season as a Volvo Sailing... Have a G! Instructor. I will be the first person to do all three regions. This year I will be in the South Island and I’m looking forward to some amazing sailing venues and the outgoing “give anything a go” nature of South Island Kids.
Why did you come back for another season?
The programme is a really good way of seeing the country. It is such a fun job. Each day is different and a new experience for the kids as they are going sailing for the first time. It is really rewarding seeing the enjoyment they take from sailing. After you’ve been sailing for a few years you forget what it was like when you first started. In the programme I get to see the kids enjoyment and pure thrill of learning to sailing every day! It is very rewarding.
How did you get into coaching?
I started sailing at New Plymouth and Waitara yacht clubs. After progressing through the junior classes I started coaching the classes I had recently moved out of. I started coaching at a club level and moved onto the Volvo Sailing Have a Go programme.
Favourite sailing venue?
Opua, the people and kids are awesome, the friendliest I have come across.
Biggest challenges you face in the role?
The weather. We try our best not to cancel a sailing session. This provides a challenge when it’s blowing, trying to get kids out sailing for the first time in 20+ knots! Some kids aren’t confident around water. I try and get them to relax and give it a go. Driving the massive trailer has its own challenges and I am sure the South Island roads will provide a few surprises.
How do you change your coaching style for different school ages?
The sailors involved in the Volvo Sailing Have a Go programme range from 8-12 years. The younger kids listen to everything; they will follow instructions and want to impress the Instructor. During intermediate, as they are becoming teenagers, there can be a few rebels/trouble makers! It is best trying to relate to them. Develop sessions so they think they are playing games the whole time while really they are developing boat handling skills. Allow them a bit of time to muck around on the water and be dorks.
What's the most important advice you give a sailor who has never been out?
The worst thing that will happen is you get wet.
Remember a flappy sail is an unhappy sail!
Favourite drill to run?
Climbing to the top of the mast! Closely followed by The Titanic.
Most random or funniest thing you have seen while coaching?
In Gisborne. We had dolphins playing on the bows of the opti’s as we sailed.
What do you never go on the water without?
Whistle, snacks and a positive attitude.
Any advice for coaches dealing with school groups?
Never have a dull moment or the kid’s loose interest. You need to make the session relevant and fun for everyone.
What would you be doing if not coaching?
Hate to think. Travelling or Boat building I’d say.
All the best for the coming season.
The Volvo Sailing... Have A Go! programme will start back up on the 14th October for term 4. Bookings in all three regions are filling up fast, if your school or club would like to book some days during term 4 2013 or term 1 2014 contact Yachting New Zealand stuart@yachtingnz.org.nz
