The Drake University rowing program will host a virtual informational meeting in the for prospective new novice members on Tuesday, Jan. 25 at noon.
 
Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting Link.
 
Below are frequently asked questions about the Drake rowing program. Please contact head coach Charlie DiSilvestro at charlie.disilvestro@drake.edu if you have any additional questions.
 
Q: Is rowing a varsity sport?
A: Yes, rowing at Drake is a Division 1 Varsity sport. Drake Rowing competes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) for rowing.
 
Q: I've never rowed before can I still be on the team?
A: Yes, our coaching staff will teach you everything you need to know. About half of the current team learned to row at Drake!
 
Q: What are you looking for in potential team members?
A: We are looking for committed student-athletes who want to have fun while working to improve every day. Having previous athletic experience is a plus but not a requirement.
 
Q: I am very small, is there a place on the team for me?
A: Absolutely, the team needs both rowers and coxswains. Coxswains tend to be smaller and both steer the boat and give commands to the rowers.
 
Q: How often do we practice?
A: We practice Monday-Saturday in the morning, Lift Weights Tuesday and Thursday after practice and do conditioning workouts on Monday and Friday afternoons. For the first few weeks you will only practice from 6-9 am or 7:45 am if you have 8:00 am class.
 
Q: Where are practices held?
A: We practice either on campus in the Knapp Center or at the Bright Beckwith Boathouse on the Des Moines River. The Bright Beckwith boathouse recently opened and is our off-campus home.
 
Q: I am concerned with juggling athletics and academics, is it possible to earn good grades while being a member of the team?
A: Yes, academics come first.  Our team GPA last year was over a 3.4 with 7 members of the team earning 4.0 GPA's in the fall.
 
Q: Do I need to be able to swim?
A: Yes, rowing is a water sport and as such you need to be able to swim. 
 
Q: How much does it Cost?
A: Being a member of the team does not cost anything. We will provide everything you need from uniforms to travel and food. The only cost required is registering with the NCAA
 
Q: Where do we race?
A: We race all over the Midwest and are also scheduled to race in Florida and New Jersey this spring.
 
Q: Is rowing a good way to get in shape?
A: Yes, rowing is one the most complete full body exercises. It is low impact and a great way to get fitter and stronger.
 
Q: Is rowing fun?
A: Rowing is a ton of fun and getting to make memories and friendships is one of the best parts of Drake Rowing.
 
Q: How do I learn more?
A: Attend our virtual Spring Informational Meeting on Tuesday, January 25^th at noon.