Question
speakmon 2010
Im a Junior in high school and started rowing 2 years ago. i want to row in college but im not sure if i have the height(im 5'5),weight(160), or the 2k(7:22.3) to be successful. I row bow in the JV 8 and i believe I have a good and relatively long stroke in the boat. i'm also dropping my 2K time as much as i can. Im hoping for sub 7 by the time i enter college. Im looking at crews like purdue, dayton, and RIT for college. based on all this information, what would you say i should do to be succesful in college rowing?
AnswerHi Adam: Here is a breakdown of your prospects for rowing in college:
Experience: Big + -- Most people who join crew in their freshman year are rank novices. Unlike other college sports, most crews actively recruit walk-ons to fill out boats and to identify prospects.
Height: At 5'-5", you are shorter than average. While that might preclude you from making an elite crew, I'd say you can still row bow or 2-seat in a varsity boat for many competitive programs.
Weight: That's a plus. You could row lightweight if you stay around 160 in college. However, I never tell people to diet just to make weight. Let nature decide.
Technique: Seems like you have that. People who row bow tend to have better technique than the middle seats.
2K: Mean time for rowers your age is 7:03. If you achieve your goal of sub-7, then you'll be there. While some coaches focus on erg above all else, other coaches look at the big picture (i.e., experience, technique and conditioning).
Choice of colleges: Seems like the schools you picked are Dad Vail schools. They are typically smaller crews who compete in the Dad Vail Regatta in Philadelphia in May. I know Purdue is a very strong crew. I don't know much about the other schools. Some of the schools you mention may even be club programs, which don't offer scholarships, thus live and die by their walk-ons. That's good for you.
Good Luck AP
