High School and Middle School Learn to Row Camp

Our summer sessions have filled! Please read this page to find out more, then use the green button at the bottom to join our wait list for openings or a future class.

Summer camps are for students 14-18 (and 12-13 with coach approval). Time will be spent on land and in boats practicing the rowing stroke and how to move a boat effectively. By the end of camp, students will know the basics of rowing. Although not all athletes will be ready to join the competitive program, those who wish to compete should expect to begin their training during the summer Learn to Row program.

Each session will consist of ten 2-hour lessons, which will typically take place Monday-Friday evenings from 5-7pm. Please note that Session 1 will include a Saturday lesson (time TBD) due to the Memorial Day holiday on May 29. Lessons will resume on a normal schedule on Tuesday, May 30.

Camp Details

Coach Joe and others, including some of our experienced junior rowers, will instruct campers. Athletes need attend only one two-week Learn to Row session. 

As part of the camp fee, graduates of the program are encouraged to row from 8-10am on weekdays through August 4, 2023. RCTW does limit the number of rowers at each practice based on safe coaching ratios and equipment limitations, and scheduling changes may be made if needed. The boathouse will be closed for the Fourth of July holiday on or around June 24 through July 7.

Athletes should arrive by 4:45pm to stretch and prepare equipment. Parents should arrive no later than 7:10 pm to pick up their athlete. Coaches will address rowers after practice, and everyone will be dismissed as a group.

Extreme weather can impact the camp schedule. Scheduling changes will be communicated via GroupMe, and make-up days may extend into the next session. Rowers should communicate both expected and unexpected absences to the coaches as soon as possible.

Preparing for Camp

Payment can be made by Zelle, PayPal (with a 2-3% surcharge), and personal check. Payment, a waiver, and a water safety assessment must be completed before the athlete can participate. The water safety assessment includes 10 minutes of treading water or floating, followed by putting on a lifejacket in the water. Options for completing this assessment will be provided after registration. Registration and prompt payment will reserve an athlete’s spot in the Learn to Row program. In the event that an athlete cannot participate, best efforts will be made to reschedule; refunds are not guaranteed.

Rowers are most comfortable in fitted shorts, t-shirts and sneakers – loose clothing can get caught in the equipment. We recommend that rowers also bring extra socks, a hat, sunglasses and a non-glass, unbreakable water bottle. Rowers will not need a bathing suit or gloves, and valuables should be left at home.

Northshore Park has a public bathroom available. Please address any needs before practice begins.

If you are already an RCTW rower, you will want to visit our Summer Program page by clicking here. [RCTW Summer Rowing Program] If you have any questions, please submit a request for more information or email thewoodlandsrowing@gmail.com.