Junior National Team - Coxswain Selection Information

This year saw the largest number of coxswain applications ever for the Junior National Team summer programs. As well there was excellent attendance and participation of coxswains at the June Junior Trials in Welland (although not an application criteria). Coxswain candidates have been nominated based upon current and past performances (resume), coaching recommendation and an audio or video digital recording of a race and practice performance. Two male coxswains have been chosen to participate in the Men's Selection Camp being held in Victoria, BC beginning on June 28, 2010. There will be the need for at least one male coxswain for the men's crews attending this year's FISA World Rowing Junior Championships in Racice, Czech Republic, Aug 4-7, 2010. The male coxswain that is not chosen for the World Junior Team will be invited to participate with the CanAmMex squad in Oakridge, Tennessee from July 12-19, 2010. One female coxswain has also been invited to act as the coxswain for the Women's team heading to CanAmMex.

Many of the applications were thorough, organized and showed strong evidence of commitment to rowing and the pursuit of excellence. As applicants continue to work on their coxswain skills as they participate in club and school rowing, some general areas of improvement to strive for that emerged from the applications include the following:

• voice control and command of tone
• concise technical feedback during races and practice
• adaptability to conditions, coaches and race dynamics
• development of boat kinesthetic (feel)
• implementation of a concise, flexible race plan

Remember, junior rowing is the first step towards RCA national team participation and not the last step. Numerous opportunities exist beyond junior rowing to enhance and showcase your coxswain talents.
Thank you for your interest and enthusiasm in the Junior National Team process, and all the best in your training and racing in the days ahead.

Male Coxswains
Men's Selection Camp, Victoria, BC
June 28, 2010

Ryan Sanders  St. Catharines Rowing Club
Jacob Koudys  South Niagara Rowing Club

Female Coxswain
CanAmMex

July 9-12, London Training Centre
July 13-19, Oakridge Tennessee

Soley Pitre St. Catharines Rowing Club