SEASTR is a nonprofit offering solutions, pathways, and accessibility to recreational and commercial maritime programs
SELKIE
sel·kie, noun SCOTTISH: a mythical creature that looks like a seal in water but assumes human form on land
Selkie, in partnership with Kenmore, WA’s ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park, empowers youth who identify as female in our community by offering a paddle program that serves as a unique platform for self-discovery and confidence building. We will also offer ‘all paddles’ open to anyone interested in the sport.
For more info please go to our website https://www.seastrpnw.com/paddling-1
Practice Schedule:
Two yearly ‘sessions’ (Spring – Fall / Summer ) will begin with an entry level paddle experience reviewing gear, water safety and PSUPA instructor guidelines. Eight well-maintained recreation SUP boards with adjustable paddles, leashes and PFDs are supplied.
All Paddle: Ages 14+ (all welcome) – June 15th thru September 15th
Team Selkie: Youth 14-18 who identify as female: – April 16th thru November 1st
*** SWIM TESTS ARE REQUIRED FOR PARTICIPATION – please email for locations nearest you
Once you are a member, you will RSVP via Team Cowboy. Cancellations are posted to Team Cowboy. Practices may be cancelled due to weather or safety issues.
SELKIE is a program that is accessible, inclusive and anti-discriminatory. The demographic that is in need of these resources the most are the under represented, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), Women & LGBTQIA+
The 1st 4 ‘sessions’ will cover the following:
- Gear & Equipment
- Basic Elements of SUP
- Safety
- Goals for the season
Creating a space where we can focus on our strengths and feel respected and expand on water skills, environmentalism and dreams
For the rest of the season each program will discover the following:
- Stand Up Paddling to your ability – this is a dynamic sport
- Types of Stand Up Paddling
- Guest speakers
- River cleanups
- Community Racing
- Voyage planning
- Adventure racing
- Land & water workouts (exercise equipment supplied)
Membership Fees:
Monthly dues for Selkie are as follows:
- $50.00 Selkie ‘All Paddle’ one X week (Sundays *Summer June 15th – September 15th)
- $75.00 Team Selkie up to three X week (Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday *Summer)
The City of Kenmore has funds available for scholarships which let’s SEASTR focus their fundraising efforts on gear, events and compensation to coaches and vendors.
Please email info@seastrpnw.com for any information on scholarships or to sign up (SUBJECT: Selkie).
Upon joining our program you will be given information of payments, sign up and waivers.
* prices include coaching, race jerseys, discounts on swag, race fees, clinics, access to all SEASTR programming, speakers and discounts with partner companies and local maritime vents
* All paid memberships include an additional annual KWAC membership fee – $20. This fee covers the use of any/all of the clubs/facilities associated with KWAC (i.e. you do not have to pay the $20.00 more than once annually, regardless of how many KWAC clubs you join).
Meet Your Instructor, Erica Lichty:
Erica Lichty is PSUPA certified, Professional Stand Up Paddle Association , and is 3rd generation Lake Forest Park. She is the founder of SEASTR, a 501 (c)(3) here in Seattle. She has a maritime background from tug boats to interior yacht design, is a mentor at the Maritime High School in DeMoines and has a 100 Ton Masters License.