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Last Updated: 1 June 2009

Modified Rowers (MODS)

ARC Junior rowers in 6th-8th grade may participate with the ARC Modified Team beginning in the Spring of 2009. No prior rowing experience is required. We intend to focus on the creation of a fun and safe opportunity to learn the sport of rowing and the basics of competition.   Modified Rowing is anticipated to grow, and more opportunities for competition will arise.  Until then this program may be thought of as a gateway for rowing hopefuls.

The Modified Program is a first step into competitive rowing.  Consideration of modified rowers needs and expectations will be given.  Rowers will emerge with a good foundation of skill and knowledge.  Highly competitive Modified Rowers (MODS) may be eligible to row on the High School Team in 8^th grade at the discretion of the Coach. Skill development in MODS will emphasize safety, technique, coordination, synchronization, flexibility, balance and strength.

Because Modified rowing is developing, regatta schedules have not yet been arranged. However, it is anticipated that regattas for modified rowers will be held on Friday afternoon.  These are fun events and will give these young athletes the opportunity to test their skills against their peers.  More information will be available after the season gets under way.

Requirements

• Able to tread water for 10 minutes unsupported
• Able to carry 30 + lbs a total of 200 yards.
• Running shoes
• A bag with spare warm clothing
• Non-disposable water bottle

You will be expected to perform certain duties as part of your learning experience.  If you are unable or unwilling to perform them you will be asked to leave.  You have to be able to swim and, as a minimum, tread water for ten minutes unsupported.  Swim Tests for Spring MODS will be held at Shaker High School Pool on March 29^th at 9AM.  However, by joining this program you are attesting to the fact you are an able swimmer. 

You must have a reasonable amount of strength.  The average weight of 35 pounds will be carried by each rower about 250 yards two times each practice.  Initially this can be difficult but does become easier as you do it more frequently.

Proper clothes and non-disposable water bottles must be brought to each practice.   As a base layer a rower usually wears a t-shirt and a pair of spandex shorts or pants (think Under Armour).  No baggy clothing should be worn.  Running shoes are to be brought every day.  Extra pants, shirts, sweatshirts and socks are needed every day:  Fleece or other synthetic polyesters are best when possible.  In terms of warm clothes, pack extra. You will get wet at least some of the time times by splash or the rare but occasional swamping.  Early spring rowing can get cold when you do not wear the right clothes. You will be fine if you dress appropriately. ARC Rowing trou, tights, uni’s and hoodies are available for purchase, but are not required of MODS. 

Safety

Safety is everyone’s responsibility.  If you do not feel safe for any reason tell the coach.  Also tell your parents.  Please try to make the environment safe for your teammates. 

Life jackets will not be worn.  You cannot row with a life jacket.   We do carry life jackets in our coaching launches at all times.  Should you end up in the water for any reason, you should stay with your rowing shell.  In the event a shell capsizes, stay with the shell and check to make sure all rowers in your crew have come to the surface.

Weather

We will conduct a practice unless you are informed otherwise.  Some days we cannot row due to wind or thunderstorms.  Land training will occur on such days. We will row in light rain if the water is safe. Always dress appropriately for the weather. Hats are very useful. Remember, it is usually colder by the river.

Spring Season: 3/30/09-5/30/09             Practice: M-TH 4-6PM

Regattas: Friday Afternoons         MODS Championships May 30^th

Fees  $310

Questions?

If you have general questions about the ARC modified rowing program, please call MODS Coordinator Donna Quinn Holloway 312.9199 or e-mail dquinn5@nycap.rr.com;

Registration and Clothing Order forms are available on the website.

 If you have coaching questions, please call Head Coach, Drue Spallholz at 312.7485 or e-mail druespalz@hotmail.com.