It’s September and many of you will be starting at University soon – and for coxes, that means stepping into a whole new environment.
Looking back on when I made the leap from junior rowing to university rowing, I can remember feeling genuinely excited – but also a bit daunted by the prospect of ‘starting from scratch’.
The best aspect part of joining a new club?
Everyone is bringing something different to the table – new ideas, different technical styles, fresh approaches to coxing. Embrace this diversity!
Adaptation is part of the process
You might have to relearn some aspects, and it may be a big jump! Be open to that and build on what you already know. Asking questions, listening carefully and observing constantly will help you to find your feet. It will also help you to earn the trust of your new squad and coaches – essential to your role in the coxing seat.
Another small but powerful step?
Learning the river early – and don’t be afraid to ask for help! A friend once drew me a hand-sketched map of our stretch – with distance markers and local landmarks. That map saved me from any encounters with a mudflat on my first tidal outing!
Knowing the river well boosts your confidence and shows the squad you’re committed.
Say Yes to every opportunity
Whether it’s coxing/coaching novice sessions or jumping in with the seniors – every crew you coach is a chance to sharpen a new skill or refine an old one.
Own your own development
At university, coxing development may be less directly supported than you may have experienced in junior rowing – it’s important to take ownership of your own progress! Athlete feedback may be pivotal. Seeking out feedback and reviewing recordings (check out our recording analysis webinars) can be incredibly valuable. Ultimately, your growth depends on your commitment to learning.
Reach out to the older rowers
Finally some of the best advice you’ll get won’t come from your coach – it’ll come from the third year who’s rowed through every weather condition, pulled the squad through 2k tests and figured out how to balanced early mornings with academic deadlines. These are the people who know the hidden challenges- tap into that knowledge and learn from them!
Starting uni rowing might feel like a reset – but it’s also a chance to shape your next chapter as a cox. Enjoy it and we look forward to seeing you at events this season!
