Looking FOR Those who will Win
Interest Meeting Dates (Fall 2025)
During the first Two weeks of class, we will host multiple Interest Meetings (all starting at 5:oo PM) in our Indoor Training Room in the SRC. We’ll cover the Practice schedule, expectations, travel, and the many other perks of becoming a tarheel oarsman.
Wednesday 8/20
Thursday 8/21
Monday 8/25
Tuesday 8/26
THE NOVICE BOATHOUSE RUN DEPARTS FROM THE Fetzer MAIN ENTRANCE at 11:00 AM on 8/23 Lunch will be served at the finish line (boathouse)
What to expect
Every year, UNC Men's Rowing recruits 25-35 new student athletes ready to represent the Tarheels on the national stage. We primarily look for students with previous athletic experience, but don’t expect anyone to come in with rowing experience. Below you will find a breakdown of everything a new rower should expect throughout their novice year, from recruitment to training to competing for a national championship at the end of May.
The First Few Weeks
You and other new rowers will attend an interest meeting, meet your older teammates, learn how to get to and from the lake, meet the coaching staff, and start to take your first strokes. We take it slow at the beginning to let you get accustomed to your new schedule. Between 8/24-9/12, everyone is required to attend at least four sessions per week, but The more you practice the faster you’ll get.
On Friday, 9/12, the FULL novice team will do a timed 4k test on the rowing machine, after which we will officially select the 2025-2026 novice roster. Selection will be based on attendance, athleticism, and attitude displayed over the first few weeks.
Fall TRaining and Racing
For the remainder of the fall, You should expect to train a minimum of 5 times per week as you prepare for racing. You will also start testing and training on the rowing machines, and learn how to approach strength training in the weight room. All Novice practice sessions (other than Saturday AM form 8:00-10:30) take place in the afternoon from 5:15-7:15PM. We will teach you about proper aerobic conditioning, strength training, recovery, and nutrition.
Our first race is in High Point, NC on sunday 10/5. There, you will compete against Duke, NCState, High Point, and any other programs in the area. After that we race in Tennessee (11/1), and Virginia (11/8).
WINTer TRaining/Spring racing
As soon as the fall racing season is over, we head indoors for winter conditioning. Every January, we head to Vero Beach (FL) for out winter training trip (1/1-1/6). There, we train 2x a day in mixed lineups, complete some early spring fitness testing, and compete in the Famed UNC Winter Combine.
Once we return to campus, we continue training indoors (weather depending) all the way through our spring training camp during spring break. After that, it’s for spring racing! This spring (2026) we will race 5-6 times, including races in Lake Lanier GA, Washington DC, and two races in Oak Ridge, TN.
FAQ’s
How big is the team?
Last year, our full roster included 45 athletes and coxswains (between Varsity and Novice). We expect this year to be even bigger!
Do we pay dues?
Yes. Your dues will cover your training, travel, racing, and gear throughout the season. We also offer dues relief opportunities (concessions, rent-a-rower, etc) and have a small scholarship fund for qualifying athletes.
Do we get gear?
YES! before fall racing begins, Every Novice rower will be given their racing uniform (T-shirt, “Trou”, and a UV shirt). Once you complete the fall racing racing season, and we head indoors, you will earn three betting tanks, a backpack, and more.
What is a coxswain?
The coxswain is the person who steers the boat, manages pace and strategy, and keeps everyone focused. It’s best if you are smaller in stature, but more important that you can lead, and have a ton of grit! No experience necessary!
Do I need to know how to swim?
yes! You will need to know how to swim and tread water before you can get in the boat.
How do we get in touch/Communicate?
For the first few weeks, all communication will take place via the Group Me link we shared on flyers and in the meeting. Once the roster is set, we shift over to an APP called “Slack” to share important team info.
