Crew Erg Test Score Analysis: Is 9:13 Competitive for a Freshman?

Question
I am a freshman girl and just tried out for crew.  Having never ergged before my 2000k score was 9:13 is this a competitive score?

Do you think I could make the novice team?

Answer
Hi Ann: Congratulations on completing your first erg test.  I bet you were pretty tired when you were done.  For women your age, the average time is 8:38.  The good news is your time will generally go down with more practice and conditioning.  

Most crews tend not to cut their rosters as the sport has a high attrition rate anyway.  So if you stick with it, you should find a boat and a seat to compete in.

For your next erg piece, try to keep your 500 pace at 2:15 or better.  If you see yourself going over 2:15, try to do a "Power 10" where you kick the stroke up a couple of beats and emphasize a more powerful stroke for 10 (or 20 strokes).

Good Luck/AP