The Sarasota Youth Sailing Program (SYSP) initially started with a Summer Camp Program. Since its beginning days the summer program has grown with approximately 300 youths ages 8-18 attending each summer and over 75 sailors participating in it's year round program. In the late 80’s, the SYSP Race Team was formed with sailors competing locally, regionally, and nationally sailing in Optimist, 420’s and Laser boats. There is also a year round Recreational Program allowing sailor to chart their course on Sarasota Bay and enjoy sailing on Sunday afternoons in Optimist sail boats. The High School Sailing Program, which will allow youths the opportunity to sail both on a High School Team, the Youth Sailing Program Team and recreationally is sailed in the 420 sailboats.

The program is designed to encourage youth sailors of Sarasota and Manatee Counties to experience the joy of sailing and to teach the essential elements of boat handling, seamanship, water safety skills and racing in a safe and fun environment. The SYSP promotes ethical behavior among its sailors and encourages the teaching of life-long lessons, which seek to build character, foster teamwork, and strengthen respect for self, others and the marine environment. Through its programs and policies, the SYSP seeks to support both serious competitors and recreational sailors at all levels of skill to create sailors who will enjoy and contribute to the sport of sailing for their entire lives. An appreciation and love of nature and the outdoors is a by product of the program.