By Mariana Echeverri Alvarez, Communications Coordinator
Leading up to the 2025 Canada Summer Games, we are featuring the dedicated coaches who spend countless hours giving back to sport. Let’s get to know sailing coach, Jackie Spear!
How long have you been coaching this sport?
22 years in 2025
Why did you become a coach?
I love the sport of sailing and wanted to pass that on to others.
What is your coaching philosophy?
To create an inclusive and positive environment to cultivate resiliency and to foster development on and off the water.
What are your personal coaching goals beyond the Canada Games?
I aim to become a master learning facilitator in my sport and contribute to Sail Canada’s CANSail subcommittee to improve our sport’s teaching materials.
What has been your biggest accomplishment as a coach?
I enjoy watching young athletes and coaches grow and evolve and come to share my passion for the sport of sailing.
What do you prioritize in your team’s training program?
Commitment.
What do you value most in a Canada Games athlete?
Buy in.
What are the team goals for the 2025 Canada Games?
For everyone to sail their own best event.
Any advice for Team Toba athletes?
Put in the work, and the results will come.
What are you most looking forward to for the 2025 Games?
Wind!
Who is your favourite professional athlete, and why?
Serena Williams for her work ethic, resiliency, and for being a role model to female athletes.
