What is it like rowing in college?

Question

I row for a high school team now. It's my 3rd season and I plan on rowing during college. What kind of things do the colleges look for?

Answer 1

College/university rowing is a lot more intense than high school. You will likely have to be on the water 4-6 days out of the week, as well as doing land-based training (in the gym, etc). The crews definitely get very tight and you'll spend a lot of time with them on and off the water - it's a great culture! The amount of training you do will really depend on the school, but you will bond with your crew-mates right away!

Depending on the college, mainly will let anyone join - there's no try-out procedure. The coaches will watch your technique and put you where they think you will do the best job. They will be looking for strength and technique. Before the season starts, try creating and sticking to a workout schedule (run three times a week and go to the gym three times a week). This will help to increase your strength and stamina.

During the last few months of high school rowing, try to get your coach to point out even the smallest issues in your technique. College coaches will be a lot pickier.

Also, once the season starts, commitment and dedication are really important. Make sure you show up for every single practice (on water or land) and be on time - actually be 10 minutes early. I've rowed with people who've been kicked off the crew because of persistent lateness.

Good luck! You'll have a great time.

Answer 2

being a girl your in luck because most female rowing teams are part of a devision in the school and are paid for by the school.  which means free food, travel, money!, and respect from the school...

i'm a coxswain on a mens team, I just strarted freshman year and it's a fantastic time.  There is alot of compitition at college regattas, and there is a great sense of teamwork and just a great bond.  I know at our school alot of people consider the rowing team much like a frat/sor just because we are so close, throw so many partys, and do so many things together.

Be excited cause it only gets better in college!

(also in my schools case, if you rowed in highschool you go straight to varsity, novice is only for new comers)

unless you go 2 a school with will give you a schlorship like marinetta, or mercyhurst