Learn2Row Camp Launches Another Season

There is something special about the first day of summer rowing camp. The excitement, the nervous energy, the laughter, and that moment when a group of athletes realizes they're about to learn something completely new.

This week we kicked off our first Learn2Row Camp of the summer, and thanks to the incredible volunteers who joined us for our recent Boatyard Cleanup Day, campers arrived to a boatyard that was looking better than ever. Freshly trimmed trees, cleared pathways, organized equipment, and a cleaner workspace created the perfect environment to start the season.

Before anyone touched the water, our campers learned the fundamentals of rowing. They spent time on the ergs learning proper technique and how rowing power comes from the legs, core, and body working together. They learned how to safely carry a boat as a team, identified the parts of a racing shell, and discovered just how much teamwork is required before a boat ever leaves the dock.

Next came one of our favorite training tools—the land boat dry tank. This gives new rowers a chance to work on their stroke sequence and timing while building confidence before getting on the water. It is often where everything starts to click.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: launching the boats and getting on the water.

Under the guidance of Coach Alex Morris and Assistant Coach Jessica Buzzard, campers took their first strokes on Lake Jesup and began turning classroom lessons into real rowing experience. Helping make the week even more special were several of our Varsity athletes, who volunteered their time to mentor campers, answer questions, demonstrate skills, and share what makes rowing such an incredible sport.

One of the best parts of SCAR is seeing experienced athletes give back to the next generation. Not long ago, many of our varsity rowers were sitting in those same seats, learning how to hold an oar and wondering if they could do this sport. Now they're helping others discover the same passion for rowing.

The first week is only the beginning, but already we've seen new friendships forming, confidence growing, and plenty of smiles both on and off the water.

A huge thank you to Coach Alex, Coach Jessica, our varsity volunteers, and everyone who helped prepare the boatyard for camp season. We can't wait to see what these new rowers accomplish as the summer continues.

Welcome to the crew!