World Sailing has opened applications for the Women in Sport High Performance Pathway (WISH) Programme, aimed at increasing female representation in elite sport coaching at the Olympic, World Championship, and other major event levels. First launched as a pilot in 2019, the WISH Programme has been developed in cooperation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is supported by Olympic Solidarity. It equips women coaches with necessary skills, confidence, and leadership competencies to excel in high-performance sport.
The programme targets female coaches who are currently part of, or have the potential to be part of, national delegations for Regional and Continental Games, World Championships, Youth Olympic Games, or Olympic Games, across Summer or Winter sports. Despite achieving gender parity among athletes, women remain underrepresented in coaching positions, comprising only 13% of coaches at the Olympic level.
To date, over 125 women from 22 sports and 60 countries have benefitted from the WISH initiative, gaining access to leadership development, sport-specific mentoring, and a network to advance their coaching careers. World Sailing has supported five coaches in previous cohorts.
The 2026 WISH Programme invites nominations for eligible women coaches already positioned for national team roles in various competitions. The 21-month programme encompasses residential leadership sessions, online modules, sport-specific mentorship, and experiential learning to refine coaching expertise. It focuses on developing values, success planning, and effective communication.
Fiona Kidd, World Sailing’s Head of International Development, stated, “This year’s opportunity is more than training; it is a chance for the next generation of women leaders in sport who require access, opportunity, and support. WISH provides that necessary framework. The programme aims to create a pipeline of talented women ready to lead and empower athletes globally. MNA’s and aspiring coaches are encouraged to explore the programme and submit applications.”
For more information about the WISH Programme, visit the link here.
How to apply
To apply for the WISH Programme, send your coaching CV along with a one-page cover letter outlining:
- Why you want to apply for the WISH Programme,
- What the WISH Programme can do for you,
- What you aim to achieve through the WISH Programme.
Submit your CV and cover letter to training@sailing.org by Thursday 12 March.
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