An Update from Head Coach Kara McPhillips
It’s been a great start to the school year for W-L Crew! We kicked off the fall with a successful Interest Meeting and Open House in September, welcoming many new faces and families to our program. If you missed that one, don’t worry—our next Open House is coming up on October 25, and we hope to see even more future rowers and coxswains there. Don’t forget that our swim test will take place the day before, October 24 at 3:15 p.m. at the W-L pool. The swim test consists of swimming three lengths of the pool (any stroke, untimed), treading water for 1 minute, and putting a life jacket on while in the water.
I’m happy to report that our summer learn-to-row camps, and a fall program we’ve led through One Arlington Rowing, have brought many new athletes to our sport, and it’s been exciting to see their enthusiasm and teamwork already taking shape. Several plan to join our team, and we can’t wait to watch these new rowers and coxswains develop throughout the year.
Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for winter conditioning—a key time to build a cardio, strength, and technical base for the spring racing season.
- Returning rowers will start on Monday, November 17, meeting in the cafeteria.
- New rowers will begin on Monday, December 1, meeting in the Little Theater.
Winter training is optional but highly encouraged. It’s a great way to prepare for the water and get to know your teammates. Of course, participating in another winter sport is also a fantastic way to stay active and build fitness—it doesn’t have to be rowing that keeps you in shape!
And finally, please mark your calendars: the annual W-L Crew Triathlon is coming up on Saturday, February 7. This is a fun and important team event, and all team members are expected to participate.
It’s shaping up to be another exciting year for W-L Crew. Let’s keep the momentum going and make this season one to remember—on and off the water!