Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the questions we see a lot from potential rowers and coxswains. If you have a question that is not addressed below, feel free to email our recruiting chairman.

• I've never rowed before, does this present a problem?
  Not at all, the vast majority (95%) of Clemson Crew members had no prior rowing experience. We have a dedicated staff of coaches to help get the novice rower oriented and competing with the best.
   
• I'm not very big and/or tall, does this put me at a disadvantage?
  Depending on your goals, you may compete as a lightweight rower (165 lbs and lower for men, 130 lbs and lower for women), or as a coxswain (135 lbs and lower recommended), which steers, directs practices, and acts as the in-boat coach. Again, no experience is necessary here.
   
• I'm not sure if I have enough time for crew.
  Practice times may vary from boat to boat, and we will do our best to work with your schedule. If in doubt, it would be worth giving the team a try. As mentioned earlier, many members have jobs, are involved in other organizations, and have full course loads.
   
• I'm not in good enough shape for crew.
  Rowing often gets an unduely brutal reputation as being something that is unreasonably hard and demanding. While it is most certainly challenging, with enough work and training, rowers get to where they need to be in terms of conditioning eventually. We have people of every level of competitiveness, ranging from just along for the social aspect, to the ultra-competitive, national caliber types.