Virginia Tech Crew was founded in 1992, and has grown to be one of the largest and most successful collegiate club rowing programs in the mid-Atlantic region. We have a strong tradition of success competing against crews from across the country.

Below are questions and answers covering most of the basic information about our program. If you have additional questions, please address them to our President John Taylor.

This document assumes that you already know about the sport of rowing, and is intended to answer questions about how the program at Virginia Tech is run.

Is crew a Varsity or Club sport?

Crew is a club sport at Virginia Tech. This means that we only receive partial funding from the school. However, since we are the only rowing opportunity at Virginia Tech, we train and compete as though we are a varsity program.

How much experience is needed?

Absolutely NO experience is needed. We welcome all students with an interest in athletics to try out for the team.

Do you offer scholarships?

No, since we are a club sport, we cannot.

What size is the team?

The team usually averages about 100 members each year. We have a men's and a women's team, and we generally have both lightweight and heavyweight boats.

What is the difference between lightweight and heavyweight?

For men, lightweight is generally under 160-165 pounds, and for women, it is under 130-135 pounds. Anyone can race as a heavyweight.

Can graduate students row?

No, graduate students may not row for Virginia Tech competitively, due to eligibility restrictions. However, any graduate student wishing to participate in our program is invited to do so in other ways, such as coaching and administration.

Do I need a sports physical to participate?

No, a physical is not required. You are, however, required to provide proof of health insurance, so be sure to know your policy name and number when you come to the first meeting. We will also ask a few basic questions about your health status and physical limitations. This information is for the coach's knowledge only, and will be kept strictly confidential.

How much does it cost?

The team is funded in 3 ways: annual funding from the school, membership dues, and fundraising. With an immense operating budget, and thousands of dollars worth of equipment in our inventory, it takes excellent planning and budgeting to maintain this club sport. In 2006-2007, dues were $225/semester. In addition, each team member is required to raise an additional $200/semester through participation in additional fundraising events. These three sources cover our operating expenses, travel costs, and new equipment purchases. Racing uniforms, other clothing items, and food while at races are also the responsibility of each athlete.

What regattas do you compete in?

In the fall, we have attended the Head of the Hooch, Head of the Tennessee, the Occoquan Chase and Head of the South.

In the spring, we have raced at Southern Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championships (SIRA's), the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Crew Championships, Dad Vail, Champion International Collegiate Regatta, West Virginia Governor's Cup, the John Hunter Regatta and a variety of regional dual and tri-meets.
For the team's current regatta schedule, click the schedule link in the menu on the left hand side

What teams do we compete against?

In the fall semester, regattas can be a mix of college level and club level crews. Races may involve over 30 boats in one category.
In the spring semester, we only compete against collegiate crews.

What facilities and equipment does the team have access to?

We currently row out of a boat shed at Claytor Lake State Park. The team practices and competes in late-model Dirigo and Wintech racing shells with Concept II hatchet blades. For land training, the team has an erg and weight facility in War Memorial Hall, along with access to additional cardiovascular and weight training equipment.

When and how often do you practice?

Practice runs from September through mid-May, and is generally held 5-6 days a week, and may be a combination of both land and on-the-water training. Practice may be scheduled morning or afternoon depending on conflicts.

How do I join the team?

The recruiting meeting is usually held during the first two weeks of the fall semester. Check the web page for the latest update of the time and place.