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University of Massachusets Athletics
Information for Walk-Ons
Where to Find UMass Rowing
Instagram: umass_rowing
Twitter: @UMassRowing
Facebook: UMass Rowing
Why try rowing?
Becoming a member of our team will allow you to:
- Train with a team and continue your athletic career
- Compete at the Division I level
- Gain access to academic support including priority class registration, an academic advisor, free tutoring, career development, etc.
- Join a supportive community with like-minded, ambitious women
Do I need experience?
No, rowing is a late-developing sport meaning you can pick it up later in life and achieve at the highest level. Most walk-on athletes compete during their first year on the team, and over half of athletes representing the US National Team at the Rio Olympics were walk-ons in college. Having an athletic background is a great foundation, particularly in basketball, track, swimming, and cross-country skiing.
What makes a good rower?
Rowing is a work sport rather than a skill sport, meaning the work you put in is what you will get out of it. If you are motivated, hard-working, competitive, and a team player then rowing is for you.
Does it cost money to join the team?
Our team is a fully-funded NCAA sport. As a student-athlete you will have access to athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, nutritionists, academic advisors, tutors, and athletic facilities at no charge. You will also be issued gear to train and compete in, and transportation, meals, and lodging for competitions are also all covered at no cost to you.
When are tryouts?
We run walk-on tryouts each fall during the first few weeks of classes. Keep an eye on our Instagram account (umass_rowing) for details about our informational meeting. Things you will need prior to tryouts are a current physical (within six months), and a copy of your insurance card.
Questions?
Email the coaching staff:
Ricky Flowers // rachelleflow@umass.edu
A Student-Athlete Perspective
- Senior co-captain Mikaela Hammond-Holland"UMass Women’s Rowing is a family. Since the first day I set foot on campus, UMass has never felt huge because of the tight-knit community that I have with my team members. I am from California, so it was hard to move so far away from home for college, but this team has truly made UMass my home away from home. On the water and the erg, we compete with each other in a healthy and positive environment. This team is built on respect and inclusion and everything we do at practice is to uplift our fellow rowers and athletes. We are a team full of different people and personalities, and our coaches strive to make practice be the best part of your day. I walk into the boathouse every morning, connect my phone to the speaker and start bumping music so that even though it is early, people come in and dance and jump around. I love starting my day surrounded by badass women, good music, and laughter."