The Drake University rowing program will host a walk-on Meeting on August 30 from 7-8 p.m. in the Courtside Club located in the Knapp Center for incoming first-year students interested in joining the rowing team. A group of Drake rowing student-athletes will meet interested students in the Olmsted Center at 6:45 p.m.

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.