Coxswains

responsibility

Quick story. Dartmouth qualifies for the first Women’s NCAA Rowing Championship. When I shoved my crews for practice, my administrator asked what she could do for us while I was out coaching. “Nothing,” I said. “I’m not allowed to go out.” “What?" She paused before asking, “Who is going to run practice?” “The coxswains,” I said. A longer pause before she asked, “So, the coxswain is you in the boat?” “Yes.” “And the coxswain has full responsibility for the safety of the crew and the equipment?” “Yes.” “And that’s true of all of the other teams?” “Yes.” “Well, if you ever need help recruiting coxswains in the future, you be sure to let me know. They have an incredible responsibility.” ~ Barb Grudt, Director

knowledge

At camp, the coxswains are guided by our designated Coxswain Coach. Coxswains will rotate between coxing eights and riding in the launch with our professional coaches to improve skills and gain a better understanding of their role from different perspectives. Between water practices, coxswains participate in daily on-land clinics, which cover topics like:

• Technique & Drills

• Technology

• Race Strategy

• Psychology, Physiology & Motivation

• Rigging

• Role on the team

leadership & fun

The coxswains put everything together on the water. There, they have the opportunity to work directly with at least two expert collegiate rowing coaches throughout the week. The week ends with an intra-camp scrimmage and a fun Coxswain Quiz.

We engage Athlete Assessments to provide Athlete DISC Profiles for interested campers age 16 and up. Coxswains who elect to participate in the DISC Profile learn self awareness and communication skills that help them lead their crews more effectively.