How Alina and Eleni pursued their passion for sailing in Greece

For Alina Stratigiou, a national judge, and Eleni Stamkou, a coach, giving back to the sport they love was something that came naturally.

For Alina, after finishing competitive sailing, the natural progression was to become a judge.

Meanwhile, Eleni sought to inspire young people as a coach in the sport.

“Starting from a young age as a sailor, I transitioned to a sailing coach and now I’m a National Judge,” explained Alina.

“I stopped sailing at a competitive level in the 470s in 2014, and decided to shift my focus to the judging aspect of sailing.

“I have been involved in all the major events here in Greece and also in several international events.

“The transition to the role of the judge came naturally. I always wanted the competition to be fair, and when I stopped sailing, it was a way to stay involved in the sport.

“My highlight in the role was being a member of the international jury at the Finn European Championship that was held two years ago here in Athens, which was also an Olympic qualification event.”

“I started sailing at the age of nine and loved it since day one,” said Eleni.

“In 2013, I became a coach at the Nautical Club of Tzitzifies Kallithea, where I started working on the sailing schools for the Optimist and O’Pen BIC classes. Later on, I started organising and managing summer camps.
 
“In 2018, I started working for the Nautical Club of Paleo Faliro on the 420 sailing team, where I am until now.

“Coaching is something that fits my mentality, so for me, it was the best way to continue being in and contributing to the sport.

“If I could pick a highlight from the last eight years, it would be the first time that an athlete of mine held a cup up on the podium.”

Alina believes that although learning the rules of sailing can be difficult, being able to play a part in running an event is certainly worthwhile.

“The biggest challenge is mastering the knowledge that is required for the position – that’s why constant studying is required,” she said.

“The advice I would give to someone who is interested in becoming a judge is to certainly do it because it’s worth doing.

“Although you are not actively put in the spotlight, it’s a crucial element for fair competition.”

As for Eleni, being able to share her passion for sailing and help others progress in the sport helps her to be the best possible role model for others.

“Loving the sport, combined with the satisfaction of passing on your knowledge, and the ability to shape characters through that, is what keeps me going,” she said.

“[My advice would be that] it makes a huge difference when you try different ways to achieve the perfect result.

“Take notes and feedback from anyone more experienced and filter them to better suit your mentality and way of coaching.

“Love what you do, be passionate about it and success is guaranteed.”

Ahead of our global women’s sailing festival, Steering the Course, we’re shining the light on some of the most inspirational women in our sport, like Alina and Eleni.

To find out more about Steering the Course and how your country or sailing club can get involved, click here.