FWBC Sailing Staff
Juan Carlos Romero - Sailing Director
Juan Carlos Romero, originally from Ecuador, has over 30 years of experience as a sailor, coach, and program leader. He began sailing at age 13 and quickly found success in competitive regattas before shifting his focus to coaching. By 1994, he became head coach of the Ecuadorian National Sailing Team, guiding athletes to strong results at regional and international events.
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After moving to the U.S., Juan Carlos managed programs at top yacht clubs, including Annapolis Yacht Club, and served as North Sails Optimist Head Coach for North America. He has also played a major role with the U.S. Optimist Sailing Team, leading national clinics, international training camps, and mentoring athletes who went on to compete at the highest levels. Today, Juan Carlos continues to share his expertise and passion for the sport, inspiring the next generation of sailors to succeed both on and off the water.
Val Herrscher - Head Coach/Camp Director
Val grew up sailing at Lakewood Yacht Club in Houston, beginning at age 6 and eventually becoming a camp counselor and high school sailing team founder. Her love for teaching others carried into her college years at TCU, where she studied Kinesiology and Psychology while also founding the TCU Sailing Team to introduce more students to the sport.
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Val began coaching at Fort Worth Boat Club in 2018, where she quickly discovered her passion for mentoring young sailors. In 2022, she transitioned into a full-time coaching role, taking on the position of Summer Camp Director. In this role, she leads programs that balance skill development with fun on the water. Whether introducing beginners to the basics or guiding sailors on the racecourse, Val is dedicated to helping every sailor grow in confidence, ability, and love for the sport.