F.A.Q.'s
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 (and only) students who are currently enrolled at Georgia State are eligible to join.
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?
The Chattahoochee River in Roswell, GA is the home of GaState Crew. The boathouse is about 25 miles from campus and the team meets at the University Commons/Village to carpool. Rowers also do individual erg (rowing machine) workouts at the Rec Center on the GaState campus.
How often do you practice?
GaState rowers practice 5-6 days per week. There is one team water practice scheduled for each day: In the morning (4:50AM-6:30). Rowers have 3-4 water practices per week and the remaining practices are erg/land workouts.
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 $350 per semester and cover regatta entry fees, equipment use (our racing shells cost between $10,000 and $24,000 each, so it's a good deal!), boathouse fees and maintenance, and coaching stipends. 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 $350 seems unmanageable, 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 encourage you to come to tryouts. There is no commitment required for your first few days of tryouts. Tryouts are a great way to meet other new rowers, talk to Varsity members about their experiences, and get a feel for the time involved. Tryouts typically occur the first 2 weeks of each semester.
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 of a smaller build (120lbs or less). If you are interested in coxing we would love to teach you about it! Come to tryouts and let us know.If you would like to talk with someone about coxing, feel free to call or email Megan Davidson. Megan has 4+ years of coxing experience and is also a coach for GaState Crew.
