EurILCA is pleased to introduce the women who will lead the sessions at the first Women Sailing Coaches Clinic, bringing together expertise in sailing coaching, racing rules, equipment measurement, physical conditioning, nutrition and athlete psychology.
Taking place in Athens, Greece, from 21 to 22 November 2026, with an optional site visit and networking dinner on 20 November, the clinic aims to support the development of women coaches active in ILCA sailing through knowledge-sharing, practical learning and professional exchange.
The programme brings together an outstanding group of experienced sailors, technical officials and specialists, each contributing valuable knowledge and a different perspective to the development of sailing coaches.
Meet the session leaders
Coaching — Tania Ellias Calles OLY
A distinguished Mexican ILCA sailor, Tania Ellias Calles is a four-time Olympian, World Championship medallist and Pan American Games gold medallist. She has also built experience as an Olympic coach and World Sailing Coach Developer.
Her session will focus on coaching, drawing on her extensive experience as both an elite athlete and a coach to support the development of effective coaching approaches in ILCA sailing.
International Judge — Mirto Antonopoulou
Mirto Antonopoulou is a World Sailing International Judge with experience serving on protest committees and as Chief Judge at sailing competitions.
Her session will address the racing rules and their application in competition, helping coaches strengthen their understanding of the rules and the decisions that shape racing situations.
Measurement & Performance Assessment — Alex Passis
Alex Passis is a World Sailing International Measurer specialising in sailing equipment measurement, technical inspections and compliance with class rules at international sailing events.
This session will explore the technical aspects of equipment measurement and class-rule compliance, providing coaches with valuable insight into the requirements that underpin fair and consistent competition.
Physical Conditioning — Anna Agrafioti OLY
Anna Agrafioti is a Greek Olympian and ILCA 6 sailor who represented Greece at the London 2012 Olympic Games. A graduate of the School of Physical Education and Sport Science, specialising in sailing, she has extensive coaching experience with sailing clubs in Greece and abroad.
Her session will focus on physical conditioning in sailing, highlighting the importance of physical preparation in supporting athletes’ development and performance.
Nutrition — Katy Taveira
Katy Taveira is a clinical dietitian and sports performance nutritionist specialising in sports nutrition, athletic performance and evidence-based nutritional strategies.
She holds a degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, a Diploma in Nutrition Science and a master’s degree from the University of Wales. Through her extensive experience in nutrition counselling, she supports athletes in optimising their performance and overall health.
Her session will explore the role of nutrition in athletic preparation, performance and recovery, providing practical insights that coaches can use to better support their athletes.
Athlete Psychology — Frosso Patsou OLY
Frosso Patsou is a sport psychologist and former Greek Olympic athlete, holding a PhD in Psychology and a master’s degree in Sport Psychology.
She has extensive experience supporting athletes across individual and team sports, including sailing, with a focus on mental preparation, performance optimisation and managing competitive pressure.
Her session will examine the psychological aspects of athletic performance, highlighting the importance of mental preparation and the tools coaches can use to help athletes navigate the demands of competition.
Supporting the Development of Women Sailing Coaches
By bringing together specialists from across the sport, the first Women Sailing Coaches Clinic will provide an opportunity to share knowledge, exchange experiences and strengthen the community of women involved in ILCA coaching.
With expertise spanning coaching methodology, racing rules, equipment measurement, physical conditioning, nutrition and athlete psychology, the programme reflects the wide range of skills needed to support sailors in their development and performance.
The clinic marks an important step in EurILCA’s efforts to encourage professional development and strengthen the presence of women in sailing coaching, creating opportunities for learning, collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
For full details about the Women Sailing Coaches Clinic, visit the official event page.
Stay tuned for more news and updates coming soon!
Keep smiling, keep sailing,
The EurILCA Team