Summer 2026
Learn to Row
7th-12th Grade
Camper Requirements
- Campers must be proficient swimmers.
- In accordance with California law, all campers under the age of 13 are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device (PFD) while rowing.
Scheduling & Financial Assistance
- Session rescheduling must be requested by the Friday prior to your first day of camp. Please refer to our cancellation policy for full details.
- Norcal Crew is committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent participation. Financial assistance requests are reviewed on a rolling basis. Please contact Admin@norcalcrew.org for more information.
What to Expect at Camp
Day 1:
Athletes will spend most of the day on land learning foundational skills, including safe equipment handling and rowing technique on ergometers (rowing machines). Athletes will also practice in boats on the dock, and most groups will have the opportunity to get on the water.
Days 2–4:
Each day will begin on the rowing machines to reinforce proper technique. Athletes will then spend the majority of the day on the water, applying their skills and learning how to move the boat effectively as a team.
Day 5:
The day will begin with a brief erg session, followed by on-the-water activities, including friendly competition. Athletes will showcase their progress, and parents are invited to watch from the fishing pier at Redwood Landing off Seaport Blvd.
Competitive Learn to Row
15-18years
Camper Requirements
- Campers must be proficient swimmers.
What to Expect at Camp
Competitive Learn to Row
Athletes will learning the foundational skills, including safe equipment handling and rowing technique on ergometers (rowing machines). Athletes will begin rowing with current team members mixed in.
Athletes will then spend the majority of the day on the water, applying their skills and learning how to move the boat effectively as a team.
Important Notes
All on-water activities are weather dependent. If conditions such as high wind create safety concerns, training may be conducted on land or in coastal rowing boats at the coaches’ discretion.
Rowing is a physically demanding sport. Participants should be prepared to lift and carry boats, oars, and other equipment.
Important Notes
All on-water activities are weather dependent. If conditions such as high wind create safety concerns, training may be conducted on land or in coastal rowing boats at the coaches’ discretion.
Rowing is a physically demanding sport. Participants should be prepared to lift and carry boats, oars, and other equipment.
Session Descriptions
Our camp sessions are designed to build progressively, supporting both rowers and aspiring coxswains as they develop skills and confidence on and off the water.
Step One: Learn to Row
No prior experience is required for this co-ed introductory session.
Campers will learn how to safely handle equipment, develop the fundamentals of the rowing stroke, and train on rowing machines (ergometers). Each day includes a mix of land-based instruction and on-the-water experience, giving athletes exposure to all aspects of rowing in a supportive and engaging environment.
Step Two: Continuing Skills Camp
Completion of one week of Learn to Row (or equivalent experience from another program) is required.
This session focuses on skill development and time on the water. Athletes will refine their technique, build a deeper understanding of how to move a boat efficiently, and continue developing rowing fitness. Emphasis is placed on teamwork, consistency, and confidence in the boat.
This camp may be repeated and is ideal for athletes looking to continue improving their skills.
Step Three: Competitive Learn to Row
This session is designed for athletes ages 16+ who are considering rowing competitively in the upcoming year. One session of Learn to row is suggested, but not required.
Athletes will train at a higher level, with increased focus on technique, fitness, and teamwork in a more competitive setting. This camp serves as a bridge to Norcal Crew’s year-round racing program.
Racing Team Opportunity
Ready to take the next step? Join Norcal Crew’s competitive program.
Our racing teams train five to six days per week from August through May and compete at local, state, regional, and national regattas. We offer men’s and women’s teams across all junior categories: U15, U16, U17, and U19.
What to Bring to Camp:
- Athletic clothing
- Reusable water bottle (full of water)
- Running shoes & socks
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Snack
- Windbreaker/fleece, in case of wind or foul weather
