FAQs

What is ERC?

Eugene Rowing Club is a collection of 40+ teen athletes who row at picturesque Dexter Lake, comprising the area’s only junior rowing program. ERC teaches students how to “pull together” and have fun while working hard. Crew does not have tryouts and interested athletes do not need prior experience to join. First year “novice” rowers learn the basics of rowing in eight-and four-person boats. Varsity rowers also row eights and fours as well as a variety of smaller rowing shells. For additional information please read about our mission and vision.

Can I try rowing?

Yes! We offer a free trial at the beginning of each season. Just register online and come to a few practices. Please contact our head coach at headcoach@eugenerowing.org to get more details on practice times and what to expect.

Who can participate?

Eugene Rowing Club is open to all 8th-12th grade students within the greater Eugene/Springfield area, including students from private, alternative and home schools.

What are the benefits of joining crew?

We strive to build a team-oriented program. Our student athletes develop personal character, time management skills, an ethic of cooperation, and physical fitness within the ultimate team culture of crew. Athletes learn how to train, race, and work together as a team. In rowing, more than any other sport, no one individual stands out. To succeed, everyone in the boat must work together. Through daily workouts and travel to regattas, the athletes build strong friendships, respect, and bonds with each other. Rowing is both an anaerobic and aerobic sport, that provides a maximum, full-body workout. Rowing is a low impact, non-contact sport, that builds muscle and endurance while being easy on the body.

How long is the season?

The crew season consists of fall and spring water practices and regattas as well as “dry land” training during the winter months. The team uses Ridgeline Rowing, a rowing gym, for dryland training. Water practices take place in a beautiful natural setting at Dexter Lake. Winter training is an essential time for athlete strength and conditioning and workouts on “erg” rowing machines. Athletes are strongly encouraged to continue aerobic and strength conditioning throughout the year. Competitive racing events (regattas) occur throughout the Northwest. Athletes do not need to participate on both fall and spring seasons. They can choose to participate in each season individually.

When do athletes practice?

Our practices include both on-the-water and land sessions. Practices are after school from 4:30-6:30pm. Our water practices are held at Dexter Lake with; land practice is held at Ridgeline Rowing, next to REI. Depending on which group you join, you’ll practice anywhere from 2 to 6 days/week. Winter training is held at SEHS from 4-6, five days a week. Specific practice times and events for each season are determined by the coaches. Bus transportation is typically available to Dexter Lake for weekday practices.

Who coaches the ERC team?

Our coaches are professionals with a deep passion and commitment to the sport, chosen in large part for their ability to communicate with young people. In addition to their extensive rowing and competitive experience, our coaches hold U.S. Rowing coach certification and are trained in boat safety, boat rigging and repairs, trailer towing, first aid, nutrition, and injury prevention. For additional information see our Coaches page.

How much does it cost?

Club dues are paid twice a year at the start of fall and spring seasons. Dues for the fall and spring seasons typically run between $600-$900 per season, plus regatta entry fees. Winter-only season dues (for those that don't participate in the fall water season) are around $300.

Families also incur additional out-of-pocket costs for USRowing membership ($45 in Fall 2021), uniform costs ($90 in Fall 2021), regatta entry fees, and their own transportation costs when travelling to team events.

How are parents involved?

Parent involvement is a vital part of sustaining and growing the club which helps keep dues as low as possible. Volunteering is an integral aspect of crew. Parents prepare and serve food during regattas, assist with fundraising projects and recruiting efforts, and manage the operations of the club. Many bonds are shared among athletes and families in the community of this family-friendly sport.