What kind of people are you looking for?
We are looking for people with good attitudes, a willingness to learn, and a desire to be part of a unique and close-knit team. Athletic ability is very helpful but not absolutely necessary. Rowing is an extremely physically demanding sport, but the team is here to help you learn and develop your skills. NO PREVIOUS ROWING EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED. We'll teach you everything you need to know! All students who are currently enrolled at Auburn are eligible to join, and we are in the process of forming a Masters program for older rowers, so faculty are eligible too.
Is it tough to fit crew into a busy college schedule?
Rowing is a time consuming sport, but with proper management it is possible to add crew to your college life. We work hard but we play hard too! Some of our rowers hold part-time jobs, many are honor students, and all would be happy to talk to you about how they balance rowing with college life. The rewards of rowing are, in the team's opinion, well worth the time commitment.
Where do you practice?
Lake Harding, in the outskirts of Opelika is the home of Auburn crew. The lake is about 20 miles from campus and the team meets by the Auburn coliesum to carpool. Our land training meets at the Auburn Coliseum as well, under the Eagle statue.
How often do you practice?
We practice 5-6 days per week. There are water practices almost every morning during the week (4:30 am - 7:00 am), but they are split between women's and men's teams; for example, the women's team may go out on Monday and Wednesday, while the men's team will practice Tuesday and Thursday. We make sure we are back for anyone who has possible 8 o'clock classes. This is supplemented by daily land training at 4:50 pm, which consists of running, calisthenics, and other cardiovascular workouts to enhance fitness closer to home.
What sizes and builds are good for rowing?
Our team is open to all shapes and sizes. Your attitude is more important than your body shape!
How much does it cost?
Dues are $245 per semester and cover equipment use (boats cost between $10,000 and $24,000 each, so it's a good deal!), insurance, maintenance expenses, and all race fees. We do several fundraisers throughout the season to raise money for the team as well. Since we are a club team we do not offer scholarships. If money is a problem, don't worry! Our treasurer would be happy to discuss setting up a payment plan with you.
I'm sitting on the fence about crew. What should I do?
If you are worried about the physical demands, time requirements, or you're just not sure what this is all about, we would encourage you to come to a land practice. There is no commitment whatsoever by coming to land training, it just gives you a chance to meet some of the people on the team, workout with us, and ask us about questions you have.
What is a coxswain? Can I be one?
A coxswain is the person who steers the boat, encourages the rowers, and acts as an on the water coach. Coxswains are usually smaller (120lbs or less). We have a coxswain coach that specifically works with them to teach them everything they need to know.
