My sons, Benjamin & Nicholas, are training with the Varsity Boys team. My oldest son (class of ‘24) also rowed for the team. I am a former rower and my favorite part of rowing is that it’s the ultimate team sport. It is wonderful to see the athletes learn to work together and trust each other. My advice to families is come say hello, we’re a friendly bunch of parents and love to share our enthusiasm for this sport!
My daughter, Quincey, is training with the Varsity Girls team and I have two other daughters (class of ‘24) rowing for Wellesley College. My advice to new parents is to cherish the journey - attend as many regattas as possible and engage with your athlete over dinner. These regattas become wonderful opportunities to connect with other families while supporting your rower's growing passion for the sport.
My oldest, Joy, rows on Varsity Boys and is a senior this year. My youngest, Lily, rows on Varsity Girls and is a sophomore this year. New parents be ready to wear green, bring a cow bell if you have one, and we’ll have so much fun cheering on our teams at each regatta! Our kids bond so much in this sport and the parents do too.
My daughter, Eve, is a junior with the Varsity Girls. I have been involved with FM Rowing since 2019 when my older daughter was a rower. For new parents, this sport can be overwhelming at times. Don’t be shy! Ask questions, volunteer, and lean in to all the opportunities to become part of a new sporting community. This sport is such a life-long bonding experience for the kids and parents!
I have 3 boys on crew this year. Connor is a Senior and Aiden is a Sophomore rowing with the Varsity boys this year and Declan is a freshman and rowing with Novice. My biggest piece of advice is to find a carpool because it does take a village, and never be afraid to ask questions. We’ve probably all had the same questions in the past and are happy to help.
My daughter, Lillian Squire, is a varsity rower and hopes to bowl and row in college. Although our family comes from a background in sailing, Lillian quickly fell in love with rowing at FM. There is a huge sense of team spirit when rowing for FM. There is a lot to learn along the way, but people are always willing to help with any questions! My best advice is to volunteer and get to know the families involved and never hesitate to ask a question!
My daughter Noelani is a varsity rower and loves being out on the water, no matter the weather. Our family has really enjoyed becoming part of the rowing community and seeing the commitment this sport inspires. For new parents, my advice is to connect with other families through volunteering. This program is built on a strong, supportive community and a shared dedication to creating opportunities for the kids.
My oldest daughter, Minabelle, is a junior and a rower on the girls varsity team. Compared to other sports, she really loves the camaraderie and cohesiveness of rowing with this team. They are very supportive of each other. I encourage all parents to come out to the regattas, cheer for the team, and volunteer in the food tent to make fast friends with the other parents. Get involved, and I promise you will love this sport too!
My son Grant is a junior and has been part of the FM rowing program for 3 years. I rowed for Florida Tech and coached at Rollins College. My advice to new parents is to ask questions and encourage your athletes to do the same. Also, wear boots to the regattas!!