Frequently Asked Questions

Crew is a physically demanding sport that works all major muscle groups. Our training helps athletes reach the right level of strength and fitness. To join, you’ll need a sports physical from your doctor. You also need to show basic water safety skills, like floating, treading water, and swimming short distances, which we check with a swim test. If you have controlled allergies or asthma and your doctor approves, you can still participate. Flexibility is helpful, but you can improve it as you train.

All sports carry some risk, especially those involving water and equipment. Safety is our top priority. We carry full insurance, maintain our equipment carefully, and give athletes clear instructions on safety procedures and proper equipment use. Our club also follows a formal safety policy that guides our commitment to protecting every athlete.

Coming to practice regularly helps you improve, but you don’t have to be there every time. Rowing is a team sport that needs practice and commitment. Coaches decide the lineups, and your attendance can affect which boat you’re in.

We have races in both the fall and spring. Fall regattas are from late September or early October to mid-November, with about five or six events. Spring regattas run from early April to mid-May, with six or seven events.

Our practice schedule varies by season, but athletes are active year-round. Fall Five days per week, Monday through Thursday after school, plus Saturday mornings, all on the water. Winter Four days per week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Weekdays are 5-7pm. Saturday morning is 8-10am. Training at the boathouse. Workouts include rowing machines, strength training, calisthenics, and mobility work such as stretching or yoga. Spring On the water Monday through Thursday, 5 to 7pm, and Saturdays, 8 to 10am. Summer Three evenings per week, typically 5 to 7pm.

Rowing needs special equipment and coaching, which is why it can be costly. Club dues are $700 per athlete each season. We offer discounts for siblings and for athletes who join through our summer camp.

We run all year and welcome new athletes anytime. We have a two-week camp in August, but it’s optional. You can join in any season.

New athletes begin using rowing machines to learn the basics. We use these machines and a row box to teach stroke technique and how to handle the oar. Most athletes get on the water after two or three days. Coaches help at every step to build good technique.

Parents are essential to our team. You can help by volunteering at events, helping with equipment, travel, and fundraising. We’ll let you know about opportunities throughout the year.

Attending camp does not require you to join the team. We would love to have you, but rowing is not for everyone. You might be curious, want to try something new, or simply think it sounds fun. Come give it a try and see where it leads.

You do not need to attend Hickory to row with us. Students from any school or home school are welcome at our camp. Athletes must be rising 7th graders and not yet high school graduates. If your school has its own rowing team, you would need to join that team. If not, you are eligible to join Hickory Crew.