Youth Programs
Whatcom Rowing Association’s Junior Program welcomes youth ages 12–18 into a positive, supportive environment where athletes grow through sport. Our program emphasizes teamwork, confidence and personal responsibility, helping young people build strong foundations both on and off the water.No prior rowing experience is required—new rowers are welcome to join at any time.
We offer both a High School Team (Grades 9-12) and a Middle School Team (Grades 7 & 8).
Questions? View our Member Handbook. or email juniors@whatcomrowing.org for more information.
Regatta Schedule
High School Team
Grades 9-12
Our High School Spring Rowing Team is open to all athletes. Whether you’re brand new to rowing or an experienced competitor, our program provides a complete development pathway from foundational skills to high-level competitive racing.
Athletes will be taught everything from the fundamentals of the sport, including rowing technique, boat handling, fitness training, and teamwork, to advanced race preparation, strategy, and performance development.
Beginners learn in a structured, supportive environment, while experienced rowers are challenged through progressive training and competitive opportunities.
Our team competes at the local, regional, and national levels. We offer motivated athletes the opportunity to pursue high-performance goals while building confidence, discipline, and leadership skills.
This program emphasizes:
- Inclusive team culture
- Athlete development at every level
- Strong technical foundations
- Physical conditioning and mental toughness
- Teamwork and accountability
- Opportunities for high-level
If you’re looking for a sport that builds strength, character, and community, while offering a pathway to fun and challenging competition, WRA Rowing is your opportunity to get on the water and find your crew!
Fees:
Session Fee: $1200
Regatta Fees: Depending on participation
Scholarships and Fundraising opportunities Available
Spring 2026 Schedule:
Dates: March 2 – May 28, 2026
Varsity: Mon / Tues / Thurs / Friday 4:00 – 6:15 PM Saturday 9:30-12 PM
Novice (new or first year athletes) : Monday – Friday 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Athlete Parent Meeting – Feb 24, 2026 6pm
Windermere Cup Spectator Trip – May 2, 2026 All Day
End To End Row & Season Wrapup – May 28, 2026 4pm
Summer 2026 Schedule:
Dates: please check back in April.
Varsity: Mon / Tues / Thurs / Friday 4:00 – 6:15 PM Saturday 9:30-12 PM
Novice (new or first year athletes) : Monday – Friday 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Middle School Team
Grades 7 & 8
Our Middle School Rowing Program is a beginner-focused, developmentally supportive introduction to the sport of rowing, designed specifically for 7th and 8th graders. No prior experience is required—this program is built to welcome new athletes and help them grow with confidence.
Athletes learn the fundamentals of rowing including technique, boat handling, water safety, fitness training, and teamwork, all in a positive and encouraging environment. The focus is on building strong foundational skills that prepare athletes for both recreational and competitive rowing pathways in the future.
This team emphasizes:
- Team building and belonging
- Sportsmanship and respect
- General athletic development
- Confidence and leadership
- Healthy competition
- Fun, supportive training culture
Athletes will also have the opportunity to compete at skill-appropriate regattas. These events provide age-appropriate racing experiences focused on learning, confidence, and development.
Athletes will also have the opportunity to compete at skill-appropriate regattas. These events provide age-appropriate racing experiences focused on learning, confidence, and development.
Fees:
Session Fee: $375
Regatta Fees: Depending on participation
Scholarships and Fundraising opportunities Available
Spring 2026 Schedule:
Dates: March 23 – May 28, 2026
Varsity: Mon / Wed 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Athlete Parent Meeting – Feb 24, 2026 6pm
Windermere Cup Spectator Trip – May 2, 2026 All Day
End To End Row & Season Wrapup – May 28, 2026 4pm
Summer 2026 Schedule:
Coming Soon: Teams, Camp, and Workshops!
Dates: please check back in late April.
Varsity: Mon / Wed 4:00 – 6:00 PM
First time users need to create a “Parent of Rower” account and then add a “Youth Rower”.
Questions? Email juniors@whatcomrowing.org
Financial Aid
Do You need support to Row?
Whatcom Rowing Association provides need-based youth and adult financial support. Financial Aid funds are awarded based on need AND the participant’s ability to meet attendance and participation expectations. If awarded financial aid, athletes must:
- Attend 75% of practices
- Volunteer 5 hours per season
- Attend one community event per year
With the help of our donors, we set aside thousands of dollars for financial aid every season to ensure that no one is turned away from rowing regardless of income. WRA has provided over $13K in scholarship assistance to rowers in need.
Partial and full aid is available. The information you provide will be treated confidentially, and will be used only for eligibility determination. Funding awarded on a case by case basis.
Mission
We are dedicated to offering individuals of all ages the opportunity to learn the sport of rowing in a safe, fun, and beautiful environment.
Vision
WRA offers a variety of programs for all ages and experience levels.
Values
We believe the positive attributes of rowing are tangible across a lifespan and we are passionate about providing access to all.
Go Whatcom!
Whatcom Rowing Association (WRA) is a nonprofit community-based rowing club that has served Whatcom County since 2011. Whether you have previous experience or have never touched an oar, we have something for you.
Have Questions?
Please fill out the program information form to learn more and connect with us at WRA.