North York Mirror

Police are trying to navigate a new course for youth from the Jane Street corridor.

About a dozen teens are participating in SAIL for Kicks, a police initiative that introduces young people to boating.

SAIL stands for “self-awareness in life” while Kicks is a police sports program for youth in North York’s 31 Division.

SAIL for Kicks began Monday, July 30 and ends next Thursday, when the youth could qualify for their pleasure craft operator’s card, allowing them to operate small watercrafts.

Ademola Adewusi, 18, said he’s never been sailing before.

“I hope to increase my leadership skills and expose myself to other experiences and basically have fun,” he said. “I hope to pass on my sailing experience to others.”

The program was created by the 31 Division neighbourhood TAVIS initiative, the marine unit, Broad Reach Foundation, HMCS York and the National Yacht Club.

“It’s teaching them a different aspect of life,” marine unit Const. Scott Cornett said. “This is opening up a new world to them.”

The program uses two 40-foot sailboats and volunteer instructors.

SAIL for Kicks co-ordinator Const. Robert Griffin said the program emphasizes team building.

“When you’re sailing, it takes a lot of people to come together and work as a team to make the boat go the right way,” he said. “Everyone is going to learn how to work together.”