How To Secure A Scholarship in Men’s Rowing: What Do Men’s College Rowing Coaches Look for in Recruits?

When it comes to men’s college rowing, understanding what coaches prioritize can significantly improve your recruitment chances. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors coaches consider:

2k Erg Times

The 2k erg time is the most critical metric in rowing recruitment. These times provide a reliable measure of an athlete’s endurance and power. While technique can be refined over time, raw speed and stamina are essential. Think of it as similar to the NFL combine—athletes with the best times often have a competitive edge.

High School or Club Experience

Rowing experience from high school or clubs is highly valued, especially if you’ve trained with notable teams like Oakland Strokes or Marin Rowing Association. International recruits with top club experience also tend to stand out, as do recommendations from reputable coaches.

Academics

Many college rowing teams are found at schools with rigorous academic standards, so strong grades and test scores are often required. Coaches seek recruits who demonstrate excellence both on the water and in the classroom.

Size

Height and weight are crucial, especially for heavyweight rowers. Taller rowers have an advantage due to longer reach, but excessive weight can be a drawback, as it may slow down the boat.

Technique

While erg times and size are priorities, technique still matters. Coaches know that technique can improve with practice, but core physical strength and endurance are more challenging to develop.

Recruiting Video

Video is less crucial in rowing than in other sports, especially for rowers in larger boats. However, a video showing technique, particularly in single sculls or smaller boats, can still be helpful, especially if filmed from a coach’s launch to capture detailed technical elements.

Men’s Heavyweight Rowing Recruiting 2k Times

2k Erg Times for Men’s Rowing (Heavyweight):

• Tier 1: 6:10s and under (Top-tier programs like California-Berkeley, Washington, Yale)
• Tier 2: 6:10s to mid 6:20s (Programs like Wisconsin, Navy, Syracuse)
• Tier 3: mid 6:20s to 6:40s (Competitive programs like Colgate, Drexel, Hobart)
• Tier 4: 6:30s to 6:40s (Varsity and club programs like Jacksonville, Michigan)

These times are general guidelines, and many athletes improve after starting college training. International recruits usually face stricter time standards.

Men’s Lightweight Rowing Recruiting 2k Times

2k Erg Times for Men’s Rowing (Lightweight):

• Tier 1: 6:30s and under (Top programs like Cornell, Columbia, Princeton)
• Tier 2: 6:40s and under (Programs like MIT, California, Temple)

Lightweight programs tend to be highly competitive, though weight limits (no rower over 160 pounds, average boat weight of 155 pounds) make recruitment challenging.

Rowing Scholarship Erg Times

While there isn’t a set 2k erg time that guarantees a scholarship, the threshold for consideration usually starts in the 6:40s. Alongside erg times, academics and character are essential factors for scholarship offers. Note that NCAA Division 3 and Ivy League schools do not provide athletic scholarships, so financial aid in these institutions will be based on other forms.

Recruiting Video for Men’s College Rowing

A strong rowing recruiting video is less critical but still beneficial for showcasing technique, particularly in smaller boats. Filming from a coach’s launch helps capture the technical details, offering coaches valuable insights.

Conclusion

Coaches for men’s college rowing teams evaluate a combination of 2k erg times, academic performance, rowing experience, size, and technique. By focusing on these areas, student-athletes can position themselves effectively in the recruiting process and increase their chances of joining a college team.