All programs are taught by US Sailing–certified instructors and junior counselors who create a supportive, hands-on environment where students learn the fundamentals of sailing, safety, and seamanship while building confidence and connection on the water.
Adam Gesner – Head Sailing Instructor
Bio TBD
Charlotte Engin – Sailing Instructor
Charlotte began her sailing career 5 years ago as a camper at RCS where she learned to sail the Sunfish and eventually caught the racing bug, and started to compete. Wanting to expand her skills she learned how to sail JY15s, the Flying Scott, and a Precision Cruiser. She can’t wait to share her love and knowledge of the sport with new and returning sailors.
Mesude Ersoz – Sailing Instructor
Mesude began sailing 6 years ago. She started off in Optimist Dinghies then moved on to 420s. She has been racing 420s both during the school year and in the summer for the past 3 years. Mesude loves being out on the water and helping teach the skills she’s learned throughout her sailing career to others. This is her first year as a junior sailing instructor and she’s excited to share her love for sailing with others.
Lincoln Fien – Sailing Instructor
Lincoln began his sailing journey five years ago in the youth beginner class at RCS, where he learned the basics in an Optimist Dinghy. He went on to sail a Sunfish and eventually started racing JY15s and Sunfish. He now races 420s for his school’s sailing team. Lincoln’s experience with various boats and racing formats has fostered a strong appreciation for the sport, and he’s eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with new sailors.
Max Wiesner – Sailing Instructor
Max began sailing at a young age with his grandparents and quickly developed a passion for being on the water. He’s a ROC City Sailing alum, participating in both beginner and intermediate classes, gaining skills and confidence along the way. He’s excited to share his love of sailing with others and help new sailors get out on the water.
Chris Walsh – Sailing Instructor
Chris has been sailing for their entire life, and grew up at both Rochester Canoe Club and Brockport Yacht club. They spent 3 years racing in high school, and recently acquired their own boat at RCC. They have sailed keel boats, sunfish, JY15s, lasers, and RS Quests. This is their second year as an instructor, and they hope to stay for many more!
Steve Rozella – Sailing Instructor
Steve started his adventure in sailing in 1997 as race crew on an Ensor while working at Canandaigua Yacht Club. Soon after he was adopted into the thistle class by members of Seneca Yacht Club in Geneva NY. He moved to Rochester in 1999 and joined the Rochester Canoe Club. In 2003, through trial and error he learned how to Skipper on the Laser and JY15. Over the years Steven has been taking people of all ages on Irondequoit Bay for adventure, cruising and sport. As a returning instructor with RCS he has developed excellent formal teaching practices that are safe and informative resulting in sailing fun for all.