Our middle school sessions facilitate both an introduction to the sport and an opportunity to prepare for high school rowing. We have adopted the Long Term Athlete Development Model (LTAD), which always strives to look at the whole child in a developmentally appropriate manner.
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Most people aren't introduced to rowing at an early age, giving those who start in middle school a completely level playing field. Learn, excel, and try something new without competing against others with years of experience.
Rowing is fundamentally centered around commitment to teamwork. Crew members learn to trust and work with one another on a deep level, often forging strong and meaningful friendships in the process.
Rowing combines both sprint and endurance training in a varied, challenging regimen. With growing concerns about head injuries in contact sports, rowing presents an incredible athletic challenge with minimal physical risk.
Rowing continues to grow at the collegiate level, with scholarship opportunities for talented rowers at Division I, II, and III schools. Many athletes from the Ann Arbor area have earned rowing scholarships in recent years.
Rowing combines both sprint and endurance training in a varied, challenging regimen. With growing concerns about head injuries in contact sports, rowing presents an incredible athletic challenge with minimal physical risk.
We focus on developing rowers who have a genuine love for the sport in a safe environment, both physically and emotionally. Middle schoolers are exposed to all three disciplines of rowing: sweep (one larger oar with two hands on the handle), sculling (two smaller oars with one hand on each handle), and erging (the rowing machine). Using a developmentally appropriate approach, we work to improve overall fitness, motor skills, and technique through core work, stretching, and cross-training exercises. Throughout the season, athletes gain a strong understanding of the work ethic and camaraderie that lies at the heart of rowing.
Our on-water program is open to all students in grades 6-8, including rising 6th and 9th graders during the summer. No prior rowing knowledge or experience is necessary. Sessions are divided into 6th/7th grade and 8th grade groups. Within each session, groups are split internally to allow newcomers to learn the basics before joining the rest of their grade level. All middle school sessions maintain a coach-to-boat ratio of 1:1, ensuring high-quality instruction and a safe experience on the water.
Interested in partnering with us to expand rowing opportunities in Washtenaw County? Contact our Executive Director, Kit Bennett, at kit.d.bennett@gmail.com or 734-882-9300.
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For general inquiries: admin@washtenawrowingcenter.com or 734-882-9300.
