Pathways to Rowing

Learn to Row Camps

Learn to Row Camps are an ideal place for youth to try rowing in the Bay Area. The camps are great for those completely new to rowing or athletes who want to improve their rowing skills. 

These camps are typically week-long, half day sessions designed to introduce aspiring rowers to the basics of the sport. We offer both Middle and High School Learn to Row camps and no previous experience is necessary. Expert coaching and all equipment is provided. 

If you are interested in rowing with the Strokes during the school year, our Summer Programs are a great opportunity to try the sport before the fall. Our Summer Programs are open to all athletes, including those outside the Oakland Strokes school year programs.

Find out more about our Learn to Row Programs HERE

MIDDLE SCHOOL ROWING

Middle School programs are for 12 year olds and up, 6th through 8th grade, of all experience levels and abilities. These programs are focused on teaching fundamentals of the rowing stroke in a fun and engaging atmosphere. We teach basic technique, boat handling, and fitness in a fun and engaging environment. The middle school programs are coached by high-level coaches who make learning to row easy and fun. Practices are typically twice a week on weekday afternoons and early evenings. No experience is necessary.

Strokes also offers opportunities for middle school athletes to row through our STEM to Stern program. This program is free for athletes and works to increase access to our sport by allowing more athletes to participate regardless of where they are from.

Find out more about our Middle School Rowing Programs HERE

Community Partner Programs

Community partner programs introduce rowing to the East Oakland and Fruitvale communities by partnering with schools, community centers and local organizations. Sessions typically involve athletic conditioning, introduction to and development of erg technique and, wherever possible, an introduction to water based rowing. The programs can serve as a pathway to our Middle School and Novice High School Racing Team, but also offer an excellent standalone athletic experience and can potentially be used towards a High School PE credit. 

We are always looking to expand our community partnerships, so if you are part of a school or community organization working with Middle and /or High School students and are interested in finding out more, please reach out to Carla Jourdan.

Find out more about our Community Partner Rowing Programs HERE

High School Racing Team

The High School Racing Team is an after school program for grades 9 to 12. The season mimics the school year, starting in early September and running through early May. Practices are typically weekdays in the later afternoon and early evening, and Saturday mornings, all at the Tidewater Boathouse in Oakland. 

The squads compete in a selection of local, state and national races, and Oakland Strokes regularly sends representatives to the US Junior National Championships. Our coaching staff includes former Olympic, International and Collegiate rowers and coaches. While the focus is on providing a safe, supportive and growth environment, the demands of a racing team require a higher time commitment, discipline and dedication. 

Participants enter the program as part of the Novice team and after their first year, graduate to the Varsity program. No rowing experience is necessary to join the racing team.

Find out more about our High School Racing Team HERE