How to Balance a Frosh boat
There was a question that got sent in asking how to help keep a freshman boat balanced…
Q: Do u have any info on how i can help my freshmen boat to keep better balance?
A: When yelling, “Set the boat,” isn’t enough and there is an important fact that simply yelling those words will not work unless you tell your rowers how to set the boat. Right after you think you have to yell, “Set the boat,” think why.
- Why is the boat not set?
- Is there one side lowering their hands more/less?
- Is there one side/person washing out?
- Is there a rower rushing their slide and waiting for everyone at the catch?
- Is there a rower late and not moving their seat with the others?
There are many reasons why a boat is not set, riding to one side more than the other, or simply crashing to one side at the catch or finish. It is your job sitting in the coxswain seat to figure out why and give suggestions to your teammates and more importantly give them an opportunity to implement your suggestions…”on this one.”
Next time you want to yell, “Set the boat!”…take it a step further and choose better words to help make the boat row better.
Good luck and more importantly, Steer Straight! That always helps the set.
Posted at Thursday, March 12th, 2009 in: Novice Coxswain
Our inestimable 9th man, Prof. Stillings of Seattle, believes that without a firm platform – all is lost, and it is not possible to set a boat up – no matter what individuals do. Start with getting the blades out and clear of the water at the same time, and really concentrate on doing that well. Row with a pause – hands away, back still in the bow. Then swing the back. Then roll slowly down the slide, and drop the blade in gently. Don’t lift it in – let it fall in as the natural consequence of getting to the end of the slide. Once the blade is buried – then pull – straight and level. The catch is just the last part of the finish. Force your crew to concentrate during the drills – flopping around is not acceptable. Once you get this drill down, row with your blades square. It cannot be done without a firm platform. Anyone who is rushing becomes obvious. Take a calm day and row for 5 miles with your blades square. These drills improve concentration and ‘delicacy’. if you can do them – the boat will be set up.
Thanks Bill for the extra tips! A junior Frosh boat rowing square blades would be a site to see. They would definitely be ready for their Rookie year!
great website Mary! I can’t wait to forward this to all of my novice coxswains. Keep up the good work.