UT Rowing FAQ's
Why Rowing?
Rowing is a great team sport that attracts a diverse crowd of people who love exercising outdoors. Rowing is a Division I sport at the University of Texas that is based on the walk-on athlete. Many Olympians and Texas varsity rowers began their careers in college as novice walk-ons.
Do I need rowing experience to be on UT Rowing?
No! Out of 70 new students on the team only a few will have actually rowed before. We specialize in building new rowers from scratch.
Is there any cost to be on the team?
No. All rowing gear, uniform, travel, equipment and coaching are funded by UT Athletics.
Do Novice Rowers travel?
Yes! In addition to competing at home races, novices will fly to races in the fall and spring. Our home races are shown on the Longhorn Network.
How do try-outs work?
Once you complete your paperwork and are cleared to participate in try-outs by Sports Medicine and the Athletics Compliance staff, try-outs occur over several days so that we can teach you some basics. You will learn basic techniques on the rowing machine and in the boat. You will do physical conditioning on land. At the end of try-outs, we will evaluate your fitness, endurance and ability to work within our team. The sooner you complete your try-out paperwork, the sooner you can get started. Team selection will be finalized on Monday, September 24, 2012.
When are practices?
Practices are generally Monday-Friday and Saturday mornings with periodic days off. Weekday practices are 3:30-5:30pm or 5:30-7:30pm, your choice. You may attend either time slot per your schedule. We can accommodate most schedule issues.
How do I get started?
Contact Assistant Coach Caroline King at caroline.king@athletics.utexas.edu or 512-232-2490. Attend the Texas Rowing walk-on informational meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, at 7 p.m. in the Centennial Room on the 9th floor of Bellmont Hall. If you wish to be on the team you must be deemed eligible to compete by the NCAA via its Eligibility Center at www.eligibilitycenter.org. See TexasSports.com for further updates and news.
Tell me about Texas Rowing.
Texas Rowing is entering its 15th season as a NCAA Division I program. Last year's team won its fourth-straight Big 12 conference title after capturing the previous seven Big 12 Invitational crowns.
Who are the coaches?
Carie Graves is entering her 15th year as the head coach for the Texas Rowing team. Coach Graves is a three-time U.S. Olympian and Olympic gold medalist.
Caroline King is entering her 14th season with the Longhorns. She was named the South Regional Assistant Coach of the Year in 2005-06 by the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association.
Melissa Perrone is entering her 7th year as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator with the Texas Rowing team. Coach Perrone was named the South Regional Assistant Coach of the Year in 2007-08 by the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association.
How do I get to the UT Boathouse?
The boathouse is only 3 miles from campus at the very west end of the Lady Bird Lake hike and bike trail. Most of our students ride the UT Shuttle called “LA” for Lake Austin Blvd on weekdays or the Cap Metro #22 from Kinsolving area on Saturdays. UT Boathouse address is 300 Hearn Street. Directions are attached to this packet. Some students jog, bike, or carpool.
What is the difference between Texas Crew and UT Women's Rowing?
UT Women's Rowing is a varsity sport within the UT Athletic Department, coached and supported by a full time staff. We are fortunate that UT Athletics covers all expenses for our team (travel, uniform, gear, etc.). There is no cost to the student. Our team competes for the Big 12 and NCAA Rowing Championship. Texas Crew is the men's club rowing team that is self-supported by its students via dues and fundraising. Texas Crew is a competitive program and trains hard like we do. They usually train early in the AM, while our novice squad practices in the afternoon. Our two organizations are different, but we love to cheer for each other on the river and at races.
What paperwork do I need to have in order to be on UT Women's Rowing?
The NCAA requires you to show a recent physical (within 6 months of the try-out date) and a sickle cell test so that we can help you stay healthy while competing for UT. You will also need a photo-copy of your health insurance card. These go with your yellow Sports Medicine medical booklet.
If you haven't had a physical within the past 6 months of the try-out date, you can get one with your home physician or for a nominal fee at the UT Student Health Center on campus (512-471-4955) or at Texas Sports and Family Medicine (512-473-0201), or the healthcare provider of your choice.
We want a great team and we want you here. If you need help with paperwork, scheduling, or any other concerns, please talk with us. We are here to help!
