Whatcom Rowing Association’s Junior Program introduces youth ages 12 to 17 to the sport of rowing in a safe, supportive, and challenging environment. We offer coached classes for athletes of all skill levels, led by experienced coaches dedicated to helping each rower build confidence, develop technique, and succeed—both on and off the water.
Our program focuses on teaching proper rowing techniques while building overall strength and conditioning. In addition to time on the water, athletes participate in land-based strength and cross-training sessions to enhance fitness and prevent injury. Winter training is primarily land-based.
No prior rowing experience is required—new rowers are welcome to join at any time.
Questions? Visit our Junior Parent Handbook. or email juniors@whatcomrowing.org for more information.
REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 1st
First time users need to create a “Parent of Rower” account and then add a “Youth Rower”.
If you are between the ages of 12 and 17 and have completed a Learn-to-Row course, you are eligible to join our Junior Team sessions. These sessions offer the opportunity to build experience, improve rowing technique and continue to grow as an athlete.
During the winter, we offer two different sessions following the calendar and school breaks. These sessions will be on land with a focus on erg training and strength and conditioning. We are so excited to announce our partnership with Ryze Gym this year! It will allow us use of an amazing indoor space as well as equipment for other forms of conditioning!
WINTER SESSION 1
12/1 – 12/19
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
4:00 – 5:30pm
WINTER SESSION 2
1/5 – 2/27
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
4:00 – 5:30pm
Weather permitting, February will be mixed with land and water training
This year we are partnering with Ryze Gym!
It will allow us use of a heated indoor space, as well as gym equipment. To participate at Ryze athletes will need to download their app and purchase the three month high school membership, $175 for unlimited classes. Below is the link to their website.
Our Junior Novice program aims to teach the fundamentals of rowing with an emphasis on fun and race preparation! This program is designed to instruct athletes on the basics of rowing, foster a positive social environment, and prepare athletes to compete. On-water rowing time will be balanced with land training and team building.
Athletes in this program are welcome to race with us in Fall Regattas.
Open to new athletes in Grades 7-12, no experience necessary.
3/2 – 6/5
Monday through Friday:
4:00 – 6:00 pm.
Our Middle School program aims to teach the fundamentals of rowing with an emphasis on fun! This program is designed to instruct young athletes on the basics of rowing and foster a positive social environment. On-water rowing time will be balanced with land training and team building.
Open to new athletes in Grades 6-8, no experience necessary.
4/6 – 5/27
Mondays and Wednesdays
4:00 – 6:00 pm
Our Junior Experienced program aims to build the fundamentals of rowing with an emphasis on fun and race preparation! This program is designed to continue bettering athletes on the basics of rowing and foster a positive social environment. There will be a clear focus on training, race preparation, and goal-setting. On-water rowing time will be balanced with land training and team building.
Athletes in this program are encouraged to race with us in Fall Regattas.
Open to athletes in Grades 7-12 with prior rowing experience.
3/2 – 6/5
Monday through Friday:
4:00 – 6:00 pm.
Experienced rowers are ENCOURAGED to join us in spring racing! Our schedule is yet to be determined, but below is a list of some of our likely fall regattas and their dates. Additionally, there are plans to incorporate a couple scrimmages, the dates of those are TBD.
Questions? Email juniors@whatcomrowing.org
REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 1st
First time users need to create a “Parent of Rower” account and then add a “Youth Rower”.
Whatcom Rowing Association provides need-based youth and adult financial support. Financial Aid funds are awarded based on financial AND the participant’s ability to meet attendance and participation expectations. If awarded financial aid, athletes must:
With the help of our donors, we set aside thousands of dollars for financial aid every season to ensure that no one is turned away from rowing regardless of income. WRA has provided over $13K in scholarship assistance to rowers in need.
Partial and full aid is available. The information you provide will be treated confidentially, and will be used only for eligibility determination. Funding awarded on a case by case basis.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Please fill out the program information form to learn more and connect with us at WRA.