Forged by wind, driven by purpose. Since 2004, the Colby's Sailing Team has pursued excellence both on the water and in the classroom.
Our History
Originally founded in 2004, the Colby College sailing team actively competed in the New England Intercollegiate Sailing Association (NEISA), a part of the national Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association (ICSA). However, in the early 2010s, the team fell into disrepair and was eventually suspended due to lack of interest and funding. Fortunately, this is no longer the case. With over a hundred Colby sailors registering interest in a competitive sailing program, our leadership team hopes to start a new legacy for the Colby Sailing Team.
Mission
The Colby Sailing Team aims to bring together students with a shared love for sailing through competition, recreation, and community. We welcome everyone, whether they are eager to race or simply want to spend time on the water with friends after class. For those interested in competing, we plan to provide opportunities to compete in team and fleet races across New England. Our goal is to create an inclusive and fun environment where sailors of all skill levels can learn, grow, and enjoy the sport.
Facilities
Our team benefits from Colby College's commitment to athletics and recreation. While we hope to practice on both the nearby Belgrade lakes and coastal waters, we also utilize the state-of-the-art Harold Alfond Athletics and Recreation Center for fitness training and team meetings. The 350,000-square-foot facility, opened in 2020, is the most comprehensive Division III facility in the country.
Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At Colby Sailing, we believe the water belongs to everyone, and we are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and equitable environment where students – regardless of background, experience level, or identity – can explore the joys of sailing and grow as a part of our community. We recognize that sailing has traditionally been a sport with limited access for many, and we are dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels valued and supported. Our goal is to break down barriers to entry through access to training and sailing resources, and we strive to ensure that anyone interested in sailing feels welcome.
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment and discrimination based on race, culture, sexual identity, religious identity, ability, age, socioeconomic status, or any other social dimensions. To further advance these principles, a member of the Club Sailing Executive Board will represent Colby Club Sailing on The Intercollegiate Sailing Association’s Task Force on Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equity (ICSA TIDE), working to strengthen connections within the sailing world, develop infrastructure, and create informational resources that promote inclusion at all levels of the sport.
