Frequently Asked Questions

At this time, our squads only accept 8th-12th graders. 

There is no experience necessary to try rowing! Many athletes don't find the sport until they are 16 or 17. A great way to start is with a learn-to-row camp during the summer months. But 8th-12th graders join our novice team in the fall or spring with no previous rowing experience. 

No, you do not have to participate in both the fall and spring seasons. We have many dual-sport athletes who choose to row during their off-season. It's a great way to stay in shape during that time! 

Athletic clothing, sneakers, and a water bottle are all you need! We have all the equipment necessary to get you out on the water. 

Registration and payment for all athletes is completed online through our website. Click the REGISTRATION link at the top of the page, or visit our Programs page. The policies outlined below are a part of registration. By completing the registration process, the rower and parents agree to comply with these policies.

The first week of practice is free and payment is due by the beginning of week 2 of practice. There are no refunds after the second Monday of the season. Please email questions or requests to coaches@olentangyrowing.org.

The success of ORC and each of its boats depends on the dedication of every rower.  When any single athlete misses practice, the absence affects the entire team. An absence may cause a boat to spend the entire practice on land, cutting into valuable water time.

• Athletes must communicate all absences directly with their squad coaches in advance.

• Excessive excused absences will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis​

ORC exists to promote health, athletics, and a competitive environment, instilling an appreciation for teamwork, discipline, fitness, and self-worth. The ORC Board of Directors endorses the following Code of Conduct for its members: 

BEHAVIOR 

I understand … 

1. The possession, use, or tolerance of illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco is not consistent with conditioning my body and team for competition. I understand ORC's policy of “zero tolerance” regarding substance abuse.  

2. Intentional physical abuse is not allowed, and I understand ORC's policy of “zero tolerance” regarding physical abuse. 

3. Inappropriate public displays of affection, sexual activity or harassment will not be tolerated. 

4. Improper driving or excessive speed in the boatyard parking lot will not be tolerated.

5. That media (including movies, printed material, and music) in my possession during all club functions should reflect well on the club and myself. 

6. I understand that the name “Olentangy Rowing Club” -- and other uses of the club’s name such as ORC, Olentangy Rowing, etc. – belongs to the club, and may not be used in the creation and establishment of personal social media accounts without the express written consent of the ORC coaches. 

7. I will assist the team and parent volunteers with the team equipment, food, and supplies for club functions. I will assist in the breakdown and cleanup of the regatta site(s) occupied by ORC as requested. I understand that these activities are a full team responsibility and not solely the responsibility of the parent volunteers. 

8. I will clean up after myself while at the boatyard, erg room, at a rowing competition (i.e., our restroom, en route, at the hotel, at the race site.) 

9. I understand ORC's policy of “zero tolerance” of bullying. Any deliberate forms of bullying or cyberbullying may result in the loss of regatta privileges or removal from the team.

10. ​I understand that ORC is committed to fostering a culture of respect by strictly prohibiting racism, discrimination, intimidation, and harassment.

11. I will show respect to my coaches, my teammates, and myself. Consistent issues of disrespectful behavior towards teammates, coaches, regatta volunteers, and parents may result in the loss of regatta privileges or removal from the team

EFFORT 

I understand that…

• To grow both physically and mentally I need to put forth my best efforts at practices and in races. I understand that team and boat assignments are made by the coaching staff in the interests of the whole team, and they may not always be consistent with my own personal interests. While objective measurements such as erg times and practice attendance are available, subjective observations such as athleticism, attitude, and personal effort are also considered. 

• To grow both physically and mentally I need to be at practice every day. 3+ unexcused absences may result in not being able to race at the next regatta. An excused absence is defined as being sick (flu, covid-19, strep throat, fevers, throwing up, pneumonia), college visits, SAT/ ACT, and family emergencies.

EQUIPMENT

I understand that … 

• It is my personal responsibility to put the launch in the water, rig, and de-rig boats for regattas, and place boats on and off trailer and in the boathouse after practice. I will be responsible not only for the equipment that I use, but for all equipment used by the team.  This means in part, securing and maintaining the boathouse at all times. 

• All ORC rowing equipment (including shells, oars, cox boxes, ergs, the boatyard, ergs and weights) are club property. I agree to treat all equipment with proper and due respect in an effort to not cause avoidable damage and wear. 

• If I cause or notice any damage to any equipment, I will report that damage to my coach.

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Violations of any of the above will be handled at the coaches’ discretion and may result in exclusion from the next regatta or dismissal from ORC.