The coxswain is the person who steers, leads and directs the other members of the boat. It is a position of great power and influence which is open to both men and woman. The ideal coxswain is 130lbs or less and is ideally, very bitchy. The cox position is to control 8 loud and energetic athletes and keep them controlled, relaxed, and focused. Undoubtedly on race day it is the Cox who makes the difference between two crews.
Rowers are fitter, stronger, and more dedicated than any other athletes in the world.
Rowing requires a serious mental and time commitment. It builds the sense of 'team' unlike that of any group or sport. Each rower is so focused on the team that the boat is not eight individual rowers but one rower comprised of eight people. Vanderbilt Crew prides itself on the sense of comradeship that has formed every year and we intend this to continue. Our morning practices start a few weeks into land practices, and they take place at 5am-8am, three or four times a week.