A traditional image of sailing might be big yachts, fast boats and the wind in their hair. But to senior Eli Erling, sailing is so much more — it’s miles-long races, frigid practice in drysuits, spending late hours rigging, docking, undocking and derigging, or corralling a group of children who share his love for the sport. 

From the dramatic moments of exhilaration and adrenaline to the drudgery of preparation and clean-up behind the scenes, Eli is an ambitious, committed member of the sailing community. What sets Eli apart from his teammates at U-High is his unwavering enthusiasm and contagious optimism. Whether he is the skipper or crew, Eli insists on doing everything to the best of his ability and with a smile. 

“Eli has to be the most spirited person on the team,” said senior Benjamin Luu, the varsity sailing captain. “He’s very enthusiastic about everything, and is very good at motivating people. When Eli and I sail together, we do very well.”

Eli joined the U-High sailing team in ninth grade, but he’s been on boats in one way or another since he was in fifth grade. He started out as a camper at the Chicago Park District and the Jackson Park Yacht Club, and he eventually worked his way up to being a full-time sailing instructor for the Jackson Park Yacht Club. 

“Teaching sailing has been really interesting for me,” Eli said. “I had to learn how to manage a bunch of kids. When I was doing the course I was like, ‘Yeah! I get to teach kids sailing!’ What you don’t realize is that the teaching part is a lot bigger than the sailing part.”

While Eli admits that teaching other kids sailing wasn’t what he expected, he is grateful for the opportunity it gives him to improve himself and others. 

“I think I’m doing my part in showing other children my love for sailing,” Eli said, “and I think it has really taught me a lot about how to push through adversity and stay independent running my group.”