FAQs
Thinking about joining the crew? Great! Whether you're curious about practices, competitions, equipment, summer camps, or even the alligators in the lake, we've got answers. Explore our frequently asked questions below and discover why so many athletes and families call SCAR their second family.
What about alligators?
Short answer: Yes, there are alligators. No, they are not interested in rowing with us.
It's one of the first questions we get—and the answer is yes, there are alligators in Florida lakes, including Lake Jesup. However, rowers, paddlers, fishermen, and other recreational users safely share Florida waterways every day.
Alligators naturally avoid boats and human activity. SCAR athletes are taught water safety procedures from day one, and all practices are supervised by coaches in safety launches. Rowers remain in their boats, follow coach instructions, and learn how to safely operate around wildlife.
After thousands of practices and countless miles on the water, encountering an alligator is usually no more exciting than spotting a turtle, osprey, or other local wildlife. In fact, many athletes enjoy seeing Florida's natural ecosystem up close while training.
"The gators stay in their lane, and we stay in ours." 😉
Do I need rowing experience to join SCAR?
No. Most athletes start with no rowing experience. Our Learn2Row camps, Development Squad, and Varsity programs are designed to teach athletes the fundamentals and help them progress at their own pace.
What grades can participate?
SCAR welcomes middle and high school students in grades 6–12.
Is rowing a team sport or an individual sport?
Both. Rowing combines individual effort with teamwork. Every athlete contributes to the success of the boat, making teamwork and communication essential.
How physically demanding is rowing?
Rowing is a full-body, low-impact sport that builds strength, endurance, coordination, and mental toughness. Athletes of many different athletic backgrounds can be successful rowers.
What equipment do I need?
New athletes only need comfortable athletic clothing, a water bottle, and athletic shoes to get started. SCAR provides all rowing equipment, including boats, oars, and training equipment.
Once an athlete joins the team, they will be required to purchase the appropriate SCAR uniform kit for either the Development or Varsity program. Uniform requirements vary by team and include race-day and practice apparel designed for rowing performance and comfort
Can my athlete try rowing before joining?
Absolutely. We offer free trial practices throughout the year so athletes can experience rowing before committing to a season.
Where does SCAR practice?
SCAR trains on beautiful Lake Jesup and utilizes both on-water and land-based training to develop athletes.
Lake Jesup? Isn't that where the alligators are?
Yes—it is! And it's one of the first questions we hear from new families.
Like many Florida lakes, Lake Jesup is home to alligators and a variety of other wildlife. The good news is that rowers, fishermen, paddlers, and other recreational users safely enjoy Florida waterways every day. Alligators naturally avoid boats and human activity, and SCAR athletes are taught water safety procedures from their very first practice.
All practices are supervised by experienced coaches in safety launches, and athletes learn how to safely operate around wildlife and respect the natural environment. For most rowers, seeing a gator from a distance becomes about as routine as spotting an osprey, turtle, or great blue heron.
After a few practices, you'll discover that the biggest thing you'll need to worry about on Lake Jesup isn't the alligators—it's whether Coach is about to call for another sprint piece.
What about lightning and storms?
Living and rowing in Florida means keeping a close eye on the weather. Athlete safety is always our top priority, and coaches continuously monitor weather conditions before and during every practice.
If lightning is detected nearby or conditions become unsafe due to storms, high winds, or other severe weather, athletes are immediately brought off the water. Depending on the conditions, practice may move to land-based training, technique work, conditioning, or be shortened or canceled altogether.
SCAR follows established safety protocols and never takes unnecessary risks when it comes to weather. We'd much rather miss a few minutes of practice than compromise the safety of our athletes.
What if a boat flips?
It's rare, but it can happen—especially when athletes are learning new skills. That's why capsize (boat flip) safety is part of rowing instruction.
From their first days on the water, athletes are taught what to do if a boat overturns. The most important rule is simple: stay with the boat. Rowing shells are designed to float, even when full of water, and provide a stable object for athletes to hold onto.
All SCAR practices are supervised by coaches in safety launches who are trained to respond quickly and assist athletes if needed. Before rowers progress to more advanced boats, they must demonstrate the skills and confidence needed to safely handle themselves on the water.
Most athletes never experience a capsize, but if they do, they'll know exactly what to do—and coaches will be there to help every step of the way.
How often do athletes practice?
Development Squad (Grades 6–8):
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3 practices per week
Varsity Squad (Grades 9–12):
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5 practices per week
Practice schedules vary slightly throughout the year based on daylight hours and racing schedules.
Does rowing help with college recruitment?
Yes. Rowing offers collegiate opportunities at many universities across the country, including NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, and club programs.
SCAR athletes receive guidance throughout the recruiting process, from understanding what college coaches look for to developing athletic and academic profiles, creating recruiting videos, and communicating with prospective programs. Head Coach Michelle Hill has extensive experience helping athletes navigate the college recruiting process and has successfully guided multiple SCAR rowers who have gone on to receive Division I rowing opportunities.
While recruitment is never guaranteed, rowing can open doors to competitive collegiate programs, scholarships, and unique educational opportunities for dedicated student-athletes.
What is the difference between Development and Varsity rowing?
Development Squad focuses on learning fundamentals, teamwork, and confidence while introducing athletes to racing.
Varsity Squad is designed for athletes seeking higher levels of competition, including local, state, regional, and national regattas.
What are regattas?
Regattas are rowing races and competitions where athletes have the opportunity to test their skills, compete against other teams, and experience the excitement of racing. SCAR athletes participate in several regattas throughout the season, building confidence, teamwork, and race experience while representing their crew.
Our athletes compete at a variety of venues throughout Florida and beyond, including the world-class Nathan Benderson Park, a premier rowing venue where national and international competitions are held and where members of the U.S. National Team regularly train. From local races to championship events, regattas are often the highlight of the rowing season and create memories that last a lifetime.
Is rowing safe?
Safety is our highest priority. Athletes receive instruction on water safety, boat handling, and rowing technique. Practices are supervised by trained coaches and supported by safety launches on the water.
What should my athlete wear to practice?
Athletes should wear:
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Athletic clothing
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Fitted shorts or leggings
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Athletic shoes
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Hat or visor (recommended)
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Sunscreen
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Plenty of water
Avoid loose clothing that may get caught in rowing equipment.
How can parents get involved?
SCAR is supported by an active volunteer parent community. Families can help with regattas, fundraising, boatyard projects, events, transportation, and team activities throughout the year.
How do I get started?
The best way to begin is by signing up for a free trial practice or one of our Learn2Row camps. No experience is required—just bring a positive attitude and be ready to have fun on the water.
Ready to Join the Crew?
Discover why so many athletes say rowing becomes their second family. Sign up for a free trial practice and experience SCAR for yourself.