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Sail, Paddle, Power!

 

SPIRIT OF AMERICA YOUTH BOATING EDUCATION COURSE​

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Chippewa Yacht Club is pleased to partner with the Spirit of America Foundation National Premier Youth Boating Education Program and Medina County Park District to bring a youth boating education course to Chippewa Lake for middle-schoolers aged 12-15 years old.

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Offering a unique, safe, and comprehensive water-based educational and recreational program, the Spirit of America Foundation instills confidence and fosters the Spirit of teamwork in our nation's youth. Our underlying goals also include developing self-esteem while nurturing responsible behavior and positive, lifelong ambitions.

 

Students will have the opportunity to obtain their Ohio Boating Education Course (OBEC) license, learn how to operate different types of watercraft including sailboats, paddle craft, and motorboats, and participate in water-based activities that provide the opportunity to develop lifelong skills.  Based on a “learn by doing” program, students develop self-esteem, exercise teamwork, safe seamanship, boating and water safety practices, and demonstrate responsibility.

 

The course includes the following dates:

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Student/Parent Orientation (immediately before OBEC)
Mon, July 13, 2026
9-10:00 am at Chippewa Yacht Club
Mandatory for all participating students and their parents. Program synopsis (dates, timing, locations, activities), Q & A, and informational materials presented in preparation for upcoming sessions.

 

Ohio Boating Education Course (OBEC)
Mon & Tues, July 13-14, 2026
9 am-3 pm at Chippewa Yacht Club
Students will earn their state boating license in a classroom-like setting. Parents are also welcome to attend and earn their boating license for FREE. To earn the Ohio Boaters Education Certification, students must achieve 70% or higher on a 60-question multiple-choice test. Accommodations such as test readers or extra time will be provided upon request. Passing this class (70% or above) is mandatory for further participation in the program.

 

Drowning Prevention Pool Class

Wed, July 15, 2026
6:30-8 pm at Medina Rec Center
Students will be properly fitted for a life jacket and be introduced to drowning prevention techniques, equipment awareness, proper use of PFD, and learn capsize recoveries. 
 

On The Water Days

Thurs-Sun, July 16-19*, 2026
9 am-3 pm daily at Chippewa Yacht Club 
Daily hands-on, on-the-water opportunities and on-shore instruction in canoes, kayaks, sailboats, motorboats, and stand-up paddleboards. Parents are invited to attend the graduation program on the final day of the course from 2-3 pm. 

*July 19 will be used as a rain make-up date only and may not be needed.

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To secure your spot, complete the Online Registration Form below and submit all required materials by May 31, 2026.

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Registration Requirements:

• Age: The course is open to 12-15-year-olds.

• A 50-Word Essay: Tell us about yourself! Why do you want to join the program? Share your interests and get creative. This can be included in your online form or emailed to ChippewaSOA@gmail.com.

• Forms & Fees: Your $100* registration fee, essay, and emergency form must be submitted by the deadline to confirm enrollment.

 

What’s Included: The $100* fee covers all course materials and a life jacket. 

 

Important Details:

• Gear: Students must wear closed-toed water shoes during all sessions and bring their own lunch.

• Attendance: Space is limited and in high demand. Daily attendance is expected and mandatory for successful course completion.

• Communication: All communications will be sent to your provided email. Please note that dates and times may shift based on lake and weather conditions.

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Have questions? Reach out to us at ChippewaSOA@gmail.com

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*Need-based scholarships are available upon request. Contact us for more information.

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For more information about the Spirit of America Foundation, visit their website.