Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crew?
Crew is the sport of competitive rowing. We row in eight and four person shells (boats) with each person using one oar. Crew is also the process of learning to work as a team both on and off the water. Team unity is emphasized at our Friday night pre-race dinners and on Saturdays at the team tent.
What is the Crew schedule?
Crew is a spring sport with a winter conditioning program open to all Mount Vernon High School students. The conditioning program is designed to build endurance and practice rowing technique. Students not involved in a winter sport are encouraged to attend winter conditioning. The season usually begins at the end of February when the team gets on the water for practices, Monday through Friday. Regattas (races) are every Saturday, beginning the last Saturday of March and go through May.
Where does Crew take place?
Winter conditioning will be held at the high school. Once the season begins, the team will row out of the Ft. Belvoir Marina to practice on the Potomac River. Local regattas are held in several locations including Sandy Run Regional Park, Anacostia, and Georgetown. The team may also travel outside the local area to compete in other regattas.
What do you need to join Crew?
You need the desire to be part of a competitive team and a willingness to learn. We will teach you proper rowing technique - No Experience is necessary!! You will need to pass a basic swim test (which we will schedule) and have a current physical on file at the school. We'll provide other necessary forms. Team members will also participate in various fund raising activities during the off-season.
What does it cost to join Crew?
Because the team is not funded by the school or county, there is a fee to join crew. This helps pay for regatta entry fees, fuel, coaches, and equipment. This does not include the uniform which costs about $90.00. This year's fee has not yet been set but the boosters anticipate that it will not be more than last year ($450). A partial payment of $100 is due by November 30. The remaining portion of the fees are due in installments with full payment due by the first day of the Spring season. There are a limited number of scholarships available. For information, see Mrs. Jones, one of the other coaches or the MV Crew Booster President. In addition to the season fees, the team also travels to Philadelphia for the Stotesbury Regatta. This trip costs approximately $250 and is optional.
What is an Erg?
An Erg is an ergometer, also know as a rowing machine. The team prepares for the competition season during Winter conditioning using ergs. The team continues to use the ergs for conditioning and refining rowing form throughout the competition season.
Where can you get more information about Crew?
For additional information contact the booster president, president@mvcrew.com
WELCOME TO MV CREW !!!!!