AMYA News - 2/3/2026
A Quick Note About the Future of AMYA — and How You Can Help
Subject A Quick Note About the Future of AMYA — and How You Can Help Hey Everyone, I wanted to take a moment to reach out directly to our AMYA membership and say thank you. By being a member, you’re supporting the national organization that works to grow and support model sailing across the United States — and we truly appreciate it. I also want to share a bit of optimism and vision for where I believe AMYA can go. I have big dreams for the future of model sailing in the U.S. I envision a time when we’ve built dedicated model sailing ponds — venues designed specifically for radio sailing, where we have full control over conditions. These ponds could support teaching, training, regional events, National Championships, and even World Championships right here in the United States. Long-term, I imagine these facilities spread across the country — eventually in every state, and maybe even every major city. Right now, we’re at roughly 1,900 members. We all know there are far more model sailors than that. One of our challenges — and opportunities — is doing a better job of providing value and giving sailors a reason to connect with AMYA. At the heart of it all are local clubs. Clubs are where new sailors are introduced to the sport, where friendships form, and where most people simply enjoy sailing with friends. Some sailors go on to travel and race nationally; many are perfectly happy sailing only at their home club — and that’s great. Local clubs are the foundation of model sailing, and always will be. AMYA exists to support those clubs, the classes they sail, and the sailors who make it all happen. But like most organizations in our hobby, we are 100% volunteer-run — and right now, we need some help. A few people have recently stepped down from leadership roles, and we currently have openings including: Executive Secretary Treasurer Region 6 Director Associate Regional Directors State Ambassadors And volunteers interested in helping start or support new clubs If you’ve ever thought about giving back, this is a great time. Even an hour a week can make a meaningful difference. Being involved lets you help shape the future of model sailing, connect with sailors across the country, and be part of something bigger than your local pond. I also want to say thank you to the clubs that host regular sailing, and to the regatta organizers who make events happen. Without clubs and regattas, none of us would have a reason to sail — and we all know it’s a lot more fun to sail together than alone. If you’re interested in helping out or just want to learn more, please reach out to an AMYA officer or board member. We’d love to hear from you. Thanks again for your support — and for being part of this great community. Fair winds, Dan Shier