by Sabrina Castro, Row New York student-athlete
Who knew that in less than a month I would face the challenges of a rowing coach?
This summer I was a Summer Leader in the Queens Summer Camp program. I worked with a wide range of people: people with cerebral palsy, Veterans, people who are visually impaired, and able-bodied middle schoolers. Although the visitors may be different, they all came for one reason, to row. In the program, I worked with two coaches and a volunteer. It was our job to make the camp a fun experience. Being a Summer Leader was fun and challenging work.
The Leaders wanted to make sure all of our participants had a safe and awesome experience.
Before our visitors came to the Queens Boathouse, we would spend one full hour setting up, sometimes even longer! This includes cleaning bird poop off the dock, bailing water out of the barges (barges are training boats used by middle schoolers or new participants learning how to row), and setting up oars and adaptive seats.
Depending on the different needs of the different groups, certain equipment was needed. For example, some participants with a limited range of motion needed a fixed adaptive seat while others needed Active Hands. Active Hands are gripping aids that help people with hand function disabilities have a more comfortable row.
Some days we had equipment malfunctions. With an awesome, efficient team we were able to quickly repair the equipment. Most days were spent out on Meadow Lake, but other days the weather didn’t cooperate and we moved the fun inside the boathouse. Whenever there was wind or rain our visitors erged (rowing machine) indoors. We had erg relay races that got the participants pumped. I enjoyed seeing the determination and excitement each participant had.
I learned that everything may not go as planned, but you have to make the most of the situation.
This job made me step out of my comfort zone. I was given tasks, such as calling out the pick drill, getting everyone’s attention, and even tying the barges to the cleats. I even steered the barge which was something I have never done before. It was an exciting experience.
Aside from working in the boathouse I even made the game plan, the schedule made in advance, for the Helen Keller Center for the Blind. A lot of work is put into ‘ Learn to Row’ programs. It made me realize how many tasks a Coach has.
In the end it was all worth it. I was given the chance to teach others how to row, a sport that I love.
