Credibility for College rowing

Question
HI Dave, I am currently a senior in high school. I am 6'3 and 190 lbs. My best 2k from last spring was 6:40 and I was on my competitive private school's varsity. I am just wondering what type of chance I have of rowing in a top rowing program in college.

Answer
Hi Dave: Your 2K is very good and puts you in the Top-30% of heavyweight rowers your age.  That and the fact you row varsity will give you a look for the Freshman Varsity by any major program as a walk-on.

Based on what colleges you plan to apply for, you should write or e-mail their crew coach and introduce yourself and discuss your interest of rowing for him.  Be sure to mention the following:

- On-water experience, including major regattas your crew won or medaled in
- Types of boats you row in (eights, fours, singles), ability to row port and/or starboard
- Erg scores
- Height and weight
- Other athletic achievements
- Academic profile.

You can even include a video clip of yourself doing an erg piece or out on the water.

Good Luck/AP