Ralf brings to the foundation his 15 years professional experience as director of offshore sailing activities at US Merchant Marine Academy, and a combination of over 40 years of combined sailing and boat handling experience. He is active and well known throughout the sailing world, having participated in such events as the America’s Cup, Transatlantic/Transpacific ocean races, Maxi worlds, Farr 40 Worlds.

He brings the same passion that made him a great sailor to the teaching and training of people of all ages about sailing and seamanship. Ralf has always been a strong supporter of the sailing foundation, and has been actively involved with the program since its creation in 1995.

Ralf is also active as a member on the Safety at Sea Committee for the Storm Trysail Club in Larchmont, member of US Sailing and Storm Trysail Club. Ralf has been the recipient of numerous awards for his efforts to promote the sport of sailing including the OWEN C. TORREY award for outstanding service, Timothea LARR award for his lifelong contribution towards the advancement of sailor education, training, and safety.

Mobile: 516.423.6422

Office: 516.204.7860

ralfsteitz@gmail.com

Skype: rsteitz.usmmasf

Ben Poucher currently works as the Warrior Sailing Program’s director and as the assistant director of the USMMA Sailing Foundation. His role within the not-for-profit foundation is vessel acquisition and program management. Ben Poucher brings a decade of experience from the marine industry; professional racing program management, professional level racing, private yacht management, and coaching Paralympic campaigns. Ben worked extensively with boat modifications and coaching throughout his eight years working with disabled sailors. Originally from Michigan, Ben graduated from the College of Charleston in 2005, and now resides in Tavernier, FL.