About
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can join Rice Crew?
Anyone and everyone. There are few requirements to join the team other than being a full-time Rice University student and possessing a strong sense of responsibility and commitment. Our team is composed of men, women, undergrads, and graduate students.
Is Rice Crew a NCAA program?
Unfortunately, we are not. NCAA status would require Rice University fully funding the team. Few rowing teams are NCAA — those that are, generally only cater to women. As such, we cannot offer scholarships or assistance in being admit to Rice University at this time.
What are the current COVID policies?
We follow Rice Club Sports COVID policies, according to which masks are no longer required for vaccinated students. All our current members are fully vaccinated and are getting tested weekly.
I've never rowed before - is that a problem?
The vast majority of Olympic rowers were walk-ons in college. Our coaches will teach you everything from basic fitness, nutrition, and weightlifting to moving a boat effectively on the water. Mastering rowing can take a few months to nearly a decade depending on how far you want to go, so the faster you get to us, the sooner your journey can begin.
What time is practice?
Monday & Tuesday (water practice): 6:00-8:30 PM
Wednesday & Thursday (land workout): 5:30-7:00 PM w/ Optional Team Dinner
Saturday (water practice): 8:30-11:00 AM
Land practices will be held in our room at Tudor Fieldhouse and we will carpool to water practices from the Sallyport. Occasionally, the team will travel to regattas, which require overnight stays. Attending early classes, holding a part-time job, and maintaining a social life are all possible while being on the team.
How will this affect my grades?
Rowers are highly disciplined athletes. Most team members report that their grades tend to be higher, as successful training means good time management. Additionally, many graduate programs and employers recognize how challenging rowing can be; consequently, they often give special favor to collegiate rowers given the qualities they know oarsmen and oarswomen possess.
What is a coxswain?
Rowers are supported by their coxswains. Coxswains are secondary coaches who are indispensable members of the boat. They steer the boat in practice and down the racecourse, provide technique feedback, and motivates the rowers as they push their limits.
Where does the team practice?
The team currently holds water practices out of a shared boathouse belonging to Greater Houston Rowing Club. Team members share rides to get to and from the boathouse. Land practices are held on campus in our own erg room in Tudor Fieldhouse.
We also own a boathouse on the Buffalo Bayou, located just 10 min from campus. The Bayou, however, is being cleaned at the moment, so we have relocated temporarily.
How is the team run?
Rice Crew currently has a dedicated coach in addition to a student-run executive board that makes decisions regarding team budget, purchases, travel, apparel, training, and more. Positions are elected yearly.
How much does rowing cost?
Semester membership fees ($200) include the majority to travel, training, equipment maintenance, and apparel. There is an additional $10 fee for annual US Rowing membership. Although rowing is an expensive sport (our 8+ hulls cost $30-35K alone), we will never turn down anyone because of financial issues. The team is committed to providing payment plans and fundraising opportunities to lower dues. Discounts are available for coxswains and registered team drivers.