World Champion visit for windsurfing Allstars 

Francisco Goya visits the Academy Allstars

It was a training session with a difference for local young windsurfing team, the Academy Allstars when PWA Wave World Champion (2000) Francisco Goya paid a special visit to their club last Sunday (10 July 2011).   

 The Allstars, who windsurf with Team15 (the RYA’s grassroots windsurfing programme) at the Watersports Academy, Sandbanks, were delighted to meet a world champion in their favourite sport.  

“The youngsters really enjoyed their visit from Francisco. It was fantastic opportunity to chat to him about how he got into the sport, his experiences and the boards he designs. They all left with autographs and big smiles on their faces” said Team15 coach Phil Merrison.  

Francisco said: “It was really cool to visit the Academy Allstars. It’s great to meet kids who are excited and enjoy taking part in the sport. Team15 is a fantastic programme and I hope it continues to introduce even more youngsters to windsurfing.”  

 Team15 sessions run at the Watersports Academy in Sandbanks Poole Harbour on Saturday and Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings.  Kit is included in the cost of the session fee.  

 Supported by industry leaders Tushingham/Starboard, Boards magazine and Neil Pryde. T15 was set up by the RYA to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grass roots level.  

 Fun and informal training sessions take place at T15 clubs all over the country for kids up to the age of 15, which are run weekly by specialist RYA coaches.  

The T15 inter-club championship takes place regionally over the summer adding a competitive edge and race training for those keen to hone their skills. Kit can be borrowed from the clubs and the cost of sessions is kept low.    

To get involved with Team15 and locate your nearest local club visit www.team15.org.uk or contact the RYA 0845 345 0400.