Crew 101: Start Here
Welcome to East Grand Rapids Crew
If you are new to the sport, you may feel like your student just stepped into a whole new world, and in many ways they have. Crew has its own vocabulary, schedule, and traditions. This page gives you the first essentials you need as a parent. From here, you can explore the rest of our Crew 101 resources at your own pace.
Quick Start: Your First Steps
Step 1: Join the Parent Communication Channels
- GroupMe: Reach out to communications@egrcrew.com to receive an invite to our GroupMe.
- Website: Bookmark egrcrew.com. Schedules, announcements, and news are posted here.
- Newsletter: Watch your inbox for our weekly email updates. If you do not see them, check spam and whitelist “EGR Crew”.
Step 2: Review the Practice and Regatta Schedule
- Practices are shared through the newsletter and GroupMe.
- Be aware that regatta days start very early and can last all day.
Step 3: Check Gear Basics
- Your student needs a refillable water bottle, athletic layers that fit closely, and good running shoes.
- Details about rowing specific gear are covered in the Gear Guide »
Step 4: Learn the Basics of the Sport
- Crew has its own terminology, boat types, and race formats.
- Start with Crew Basics & Terminology » for a clear overview.
Meet the Coaches
EGR Crew is led by a dedicated coaching staff. Their goal is to help athletes grow in the sport and as individuals.
What Comes Next
This page is just the start. The Crew 101 section includes the topics parents ask about most often:
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Staying Connected — How we communicate (website, newsletters, GroupMe) and what to join first.
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Crew Basics & Terminology — Sweep vs. sculling, boat types (8+, 4x, 2x), coxswain, glossary.
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Gear Guide — Must‑have practice gear, race attire options, cold‑weather tips, labeling.
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Inside the Rower Experience — Practice rhythm, team culture, regatta days, academics balance.
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Race Day: What to Expect — Venues, travel, day‑of flow, parent packing list.
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Meet the Coaches — Head Coach Matt, Coach Anne, Coach Sam, plus our deep coaching bench.
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Parent Association & Volunteering — How parents pitch in; committees; SignupGenius link.
