Month: May 2025

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May 20, 2025 Newsletter

What an eventful Stotesbury Cup Regatta! The experience definitely earned the nickname “Soaksbury.” Our athletes raced their hearts out and, hopefully, had some fun in the process. We are so thankful for the loads of volunteers and spectators who came together to make the most of a rainy situation. Our MFr8+ and WJr4+ have one more opportunity to race at this weekend’s SRAA Nationals Regatta!

1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON
2. REVIEW PROPOSED BOARD FOR NEXT YEAR
3. WE STILL NEED VOLUNTEERS
4. END-OF-YEAR BANQUET WED, 5/28
5. SPIRIT WEAR OR UNIFORM RECYCLING
6. SUMMER ERG RENTAL
7. 2025-2026 SCHOOL PHYSICAL
8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
SUPPORT THE TEAM!

1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON
Practices will be focused for those going to Nationals. If you are unsure if an athlete should come to practice, please have the athlete check with their coaches.

2. REVIEW PROPOSED BOARD FOR NEXT YEAR

In accordance with Article X, Section 2 of the by-laws for the C.G. Woodson High School Rowing Boosters Association, here is the slate of candidates to be voted on during the Annual Association Meeting (aka our end-of-year banquet) on Wednesday, May 28. Names marked with an asterisk will be NEW to their role on the board for the 2025-2026 school year. THANK YOU!!! If you are interested in filling any of our vacancies, please reach out to any of the existing Board Members on Slack!

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President: Tim Schnelle

Senior VP: VACANT

VP Activities: Maz Chinoy

VP Comms: Jenn McRobbie

Treasurer: Doug Glenn*

Secretary: Andi Knopp

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Fundraising: Alexis Sutter*

Membership: VACANT

Service & Volunteering: Lisa Veigel

Equip & Logistics: Riz Ramakdawala

Uniforms & Sportswear: Monica Chacon*

VASRA Rep: Michael Chase

Woodson Boosters Liaison: Gloria Totten*

ALSO – we have a CRITICAL support role to fill immediately. We are seeking someone to shadow Gail Lee for our MAJOR FUNDRAISER, the Woodson Craft Show. Please reach out to Gail for info on how to fulfill your volunteer requirements before the next season even begins

3. WE STILL NEED VOLUNTEERS
As a reminder, failure to meet your volunteer credits by the end of the season will result in a $200 per credit charge. Questions about the status of your family’s fulfillment of volunteer requirements should be sent to Lisa Veigel, Volunteer Coordinator. Click any of the links below to fulfill your current volunteer credits:

4. END-OF-YEAR BANQUET WED, 5/28
Please plan to join us in celebrating a wonderful season! If you haven’t yet, please RSVP and help out. This will be a partial pot-luck style event, so please RSVP and help out. The Board will provide pizza and cake. This is more than just an end-of-season celebration; coaches will present awards, we will recognize our seniors and attending parents will have an introduction/vote for next year’s new board members!

5. SPIRIT WEAR OR UNIFORM RECYCLING
Are you graduating and won’t be wearing your uni in college? Do you have old Woodson Crew/Rowing spirit wear that you no longer wear? Or perhaps you’re looking for a community conscious way to clear up those overflowing drawers? We can help. We will collect your gently used spirit wear for intra-team recycling (think Tag Days) or resale. All items will be reconditioned and washed. If offered for sale, they will be sold for a fraction of the retail price to benefit the team. Help other up & coming Woodson families sport their support without breaking the bank. We will have a box available at the End-of-Year banquet to collect your donations. THANK YOU!

6. SUMMER ERG RENTAL
The team will have a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. The cost to rent an erg will be $200.00 (pre-paid). Pick up will be at the end of season banquet on Wednesday, 5/28. Ergs will be returned prior to the start of winter conditioning in October 2025. Reserve your erg here: https://woodsonrowing.org/erg-rental/

7. 2025-2026 SCHOOL PHYSICAL
Each year, it is required that all student athletes have a completed VHSL physical on file before participating in sports. Completing that physical at the end of the school year  means that you won’t run into rushing to get a physical at the start of the crew season next year!

To aid in that end, the Athletic Training Programs at various high schools in NoVA hold a Sports Physical Night. The goal of Sports Physical Night is to provide a complete pre-participation examination screening that will leave student athletes with a valid VHSL physical for the entirety of the 2025-26 school year. The cost for the physical is $50. 

The Athletic Training Program receives no funding from FCPS, and this event is their ONLY fundraiser for the year. ALL proceeds go towards helping the program purchase supplies. 

Sign up for an appointment for a physical here. Even If you cannot make the Woodson event on June 10, sign up for another school’s event using the same form.

NOTE: There is a NEW VHSL Physical Form for the 2025-2026 school year! Make sure that you use the NEW form (it says April 2025 in the top right corner), whether you take advantage of the Athletic Training Program’s event or use your own doctor.

8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
This calendar is constantly updated as events are added. Scroll here for a quick rundown of what’s up and coming. Where relevant and/or available, links are provided for more information. You can also see a visual representation of our calendar on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

MAY & JUNE

SUPPORT THE TEAM!

VIEW AND UPLOAD PHOTOS: Visit our Woodson Rowing photos page for more information on how you can help protect our legacy with photographs!

REP THE TEAM WITH PRIDE!

There are many ways for you to shop and benefit the team all while sporting your support! See our Spirit Wear Page for more info!

SPONSOR WOODSON ROWING!

Visit our Sponsorship Page or contact Woodson Rowing Fundraising.

FEELING GENEROUS?

No amount is too small or too big and is a HUGE part of our successes!!
Visit our Donors page for information on how your donation will be used!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

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May 13, 2025 Newsletter

What an incredible end to the championship season. Woodson Rowing brought home the W2V state title AND a bid for SRAA Nationals for the WJr4+. As usual, we are full steam ahead into the week with LOTS of activity and things to do!

1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON

2. STOTESBURY UPDATES
A. LUGGAGE DROP-OFF ON WEDNESDAY, 5/14
B. WHAT HAPPENS ON THURSDAY?
C. TEAM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
D. THE SLACK CHANNEL
E. RACING SCHEDULE
F. PARENT INFO ZOOM HOSTED BY STOTESBURY TONIGHT, 5:30p
G. WORK AT THE REGATTA FOR AN ENTRY PASS

3. SRAA NATIONALS

4. LOTS OF VOLUNTEERING NEEDS REMAIN!

5. SUMMER ERG RENTAL

6. 2025-2025 SCHOOL PHYSICAL

7. FINAL RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER – ALL DAY, MONDAY, 5/19

8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

SUPPORT THE TEAM!

1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON
Practices will be focused for Stotesbury participants and those going to Nationals. If you are unsure if an athlete should come to practice, please have the ATHLETE check with the coaches. We know it is challenging sometimes when our athletes do not communicate with their families, but this is a golden opportunity to teach your athletes the art of independence and advocacy. Also, our coaches have full-time jobs, families and then coach our kids. The more we can help them stay focused on the athletes, the better for everyone!

2. STOTESBURY UPDATES
Everyone is registered, paid and up-to-date on forms! WOO HOO! Thanks for your diligence in getting all of these important things done before we leave on Thursday.A. LUGGAGE DROP-OFF ON WEDNESDAY, 5/14

Luggage drop-off is tomorrow (5/14), 7-8 PM at Woodson, Door 3. Please bring your athlete’s bags and any medicine (this includes over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen). Enter through Door 3 (the door by the big rock out front) and you’ll see volunteers on hand to check luggage.

All bags except carry-ons must be turned in at this time; this baggage will be inaccessible during bus travel. All bags will be secured in a locked room until the bus is loaded on May 16. The coaches prefer that students accompany their own bags for drop-off. So, this is your motherly advice to PACK TONIGHT.

Be aware that carry-on bags will be quickly searched before boarding the bus, so keep the prohibited items at home. Unsure what’s prohibited? Visit our website and scroll down to the “PACKING” section.

There are two options on the Luggage Check-in form:

  1. PARENTS may search the bags for prohibited items (alcohol, duct tape, cigarettes, etc.) and sign the lower portion of the form attesting that you have done so. If you choose this option, a parent must bring the bags to Woodson Wednesday night  with Part II of the form signed so we can confirm the luggage contains no prohibited items. Please be aware that coaches/volunteers will still likely do a perfunctory search of the bag. That is often because parents are unaware of things that are “not recommended” items to bring, such as a toy lightsaber (yes – someone tried to bring one of those once).
  2. If athletes are bringing their luggage without a parent, parents must sign Part I of this form consenting to have the bags searched by volunteers under the supervision of coaching staff.

If you need assistance deciding what to pack, visit our Stotesbury webpage and scroll down to the “PACKING” section to learn more.

IF YOUR ATHLETE REQUIRES MEDICATION OF ANY KIND (THIS INCLUDES OVER-THE-COUNTER PAIN MEDS SUCH AS TYLENOL AND ADVIL):

Please provide a hard copy of the Medication Form at the luggage check-in on May 15. Complete the form with as much information as you are comfortable sharing. The form, along with all medications in their original containers, must be placed in a sealable plastic bag, labeled with the ATHLETE’S NAME. This will be reviewed and checked-in Wednesday evening during the baggage search. Please just send enough for your student for just the trip. Questions? Visit our Stotesbury webpage and scroll down to the “TRANSPORT OF MEDICATIONS” section to learn more.B. WHAT HAPPENS ON THURSDAY?

Parents do not need to notify the Attendance office of your athlete’s absence. The team has already provided a list of all athletes attending this trip. This is considered an excused absence.

Athletes should go to school as they normally would EXCEPT if they drive. They should NOT leave vehicles in the parking lot for the duration of the trip so should make alternative arrangements to get to school. Athletes will attend all of first period. When the bell rings, they will make their way to Door 3 to board the buses. Buses will depart by 10:15a at the latest, so athletes should move with haste after the bell rings.

Any chaperones traveling on the buses and volunteers assisting with attendance and bus loading should be at Door 3 around 9:30-9:45a.

C. TEAM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
We still have many open slots for volunteers at Stotesbury. Remember that many hands make light work!! Visit the Stotesbury Volunteer Sign Up for the long list of volunteering opportunities available, both at home and at the race site.

D. THE SLACK CHANNEL
Make sure you check #2025-stotesbury to stay abreast of all updates. We will be posting updates during the trip, to include an ETA when the athletes will be returning to Woodson on Saturday. This is your one-stop-shop for information.

E. RACING SCHEDULE
The racing schedule has been released. You can find a preview and explanation on our website at woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury. If you’re the info gathering type, you can deep dive on Rowtown.org.

F. PARENT INFO ZOOM HOSTED BY STOTESBURY TONIGHT, 5:30p
Organizers are hosting a Parents “Zoom” Info session on Tuesday May 13 at 5:30 pm during which they will answer most questions you may have. You must pre-register to join HERE.

G. WORK AT THE REGATTA FOR AN ENTRY PASS
Spectating is absolutely free. But. you can get an Entry Pass (this is the ability to drive in and park on-site for one day) if you volunteer for TWO shifts (across all spots available during the regatta). If you sign up for three shifts, you will receive a two-day Entry Pass. You can sign up to volunteer HERE (Do so soon if you are interested. Spots will fill fast).  If you choose to volunteer, please let Lisa Veigel know – especially if you haven’t fulfilled your volunteer duties for our team this year. Please note your affiliation with Woodson on the SUG.

3. SRAA NATIONALS
Congratulations to our MFr8+ and WJr4+ who qualified to race in SRAA Nationals! A Slack channel has been created specifically for SRAA discussions, if your athlete is attending please make sure you’re in the channel: #2025-sraa. We are currently working on securing hotel rooms and the like, so we appreciate your patience as we juggle both travel regattas! For folks that like to do their own research, all the info we currently have is here: https://woodsonrowing.org/sraa/.

4. LOTS OF VOLUNTEERING NEEDS REMAIN!
As a reminder, failure to meet your volunteer credits by the end of the season will result in a $200 per credit charge. Questions about the status of your family’s fulfillment of volunteer requirements should be sent to Lisa Veigel, Volunteer Coordinator. Click any of the links below to fulfill your current volunteer credits:

5. SUMMER ERG RENTAL
The team will have a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. The cost to rent an erg will be $200.00 (pre-paid). Pick up will be at the end of season banquet on Wednesday, 5/28. Ergs will be returned prior to the start of winter conditioning in October 2025. Reserve your erg here: https://woodsonrowing.org/erg-rental/

6. 2025-2025 SCHOOL PHYSICAL
Each year, it is required that all student athletes have a completed VHSL physical on file before participating in sports. Completing that physical at the end of the school year  means that you won’t run into rushing to get a physical at the start of the crew season next year!

To aid in that end, the Athletic Training Programs at various high schools in NoVA hold a Sports Physical Night. The goal of Sports Physical Night is to provide a complete pre-participation examination screening that will leave student athletes with a valid VHSL physical for the entirety of the 2025-26 school year. The cost for the physical is $50. 

The Athletic Training Program receives no funding from FCPS, and this event is their ONLY fundraiser for the year. ALL proceeds go towards helping the program purchase supplies. 

Sign up for an appointment for a physical here. Even If you cannot make the Woodson event on June 10, sign up for another school’s event using the same form.

NOTE: There is a NEW VHSL Physical Form for the 2025-2026 school year! Make sure that you use the NEW form (it says April 2025 in the top right corner), whether you take advantage of the Athletic Training Program’s event or use your own doctor.

7. FINAL RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER – ALL DAY, MONDAY, 5/19
&Pizza (in the same plaza as Trader Joe’s) is hosting a restaurant day on behalf of the team. We need at least $400 in sales to receive a benefit through this fundraiser, so SPREAD THE WORD!!!!


📅 When: 05/19/2025  11AM to 9PM

📍 Where: &Pizza, 9476 Main Street, Fairfax, VA.

8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
This calendar is constantly updated as events are added. Scroll here for a quick rundown of what’s up and coming. Where relevant and/or available, links are provided for more information. You can also see a visual representation of our calendar on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

MAY

SUPPORT THE TEAM!

PHOTOS: Visit our Woodson Rowing photos for more information on how you can help protect our legacy with photographs!

REP THE TEAM WITH PRIDE: There are many ways for you to shop and benefit the team all while sporting your support. See our Spirit wear page for more info!

SPONSOR WOODSON ROWING? Visit our website at https://woodsonrowing.org/sponsors/ or contact Woodson Rowing Fundraising.

FEELING GENEROUS? No amount is too big or too small and is a HUGE part of our success!  Visit our Donors page for more information on how your donations will be used.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
IG: https://www.instagram.com/woodsonrowing
FB: https://www.facebook.com/woodsonrowing
X: https://twitter.com/WoodsonRowing

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VSRC Day 2

Welcome to a special edition newsletter as we head into Day 2 of the Virginia State Rowing Championships! We will have 4 boats competing this weekend: the WJr4+, W1V, M1V, W2V and M2V. We are so proud of your hard work all season and can’t wait to watch you race! #pullforwoodson!

1. FINAL TEAM DINNER FOR ALL ATHLETES

2. VSRC DAY 2 VOLUNTEERS

3. VSRC DAY 2 LOGISTICS
A. ATTENDANCE
B. TIMING
C. OFF-SITE PARKING FOR SPECTATORS
D. SHUTTLE SPECIFICS
E. ONSITE PARKING
F. CONCESSIONS

4. PLEASE SHARE YOUR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS

5. STOTESBURY REGISTRATION AND FORMS DEADLINE: TOMORROW!!

6. LOTS OF VOLUNTEERING NEEDS!

7. ALREADY PLANNING FOR THE OFF-SEASON?
A. RENT-AN-ERG
B. BUY-AN-ERG
C. GET YOUR SCHOOL PHYSICAL OUT OF THE WAY

8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

SUPPORT THE TEAM!

1. FINAL TEAM DINNER FOR ALL ATHLETES
The menu for our Friday team dinner is Wegman’s catering! On the menu: Roasted quartered chicken, lemon chicken breasts, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, green beans, and green salad with veggies. Dessert: assorted cookies, fresh fruit, and GF fruit snacks. Please encourage ALL athletes to attend dinner and support the junior boats before States!

    2. VSRC DAY 2 VOLUNTEERS
    All volunteer slots for this weekend are full. THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS! Gentle reminder that if you sign up, you’re expected to volunteer. If it is a regatta weekend and you are unable to fulfill your duties, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa Veigel, so that she can try to help you find a replacement for your shift.

      3. VSRC DAY 2 LOGISTICS
      It’s championship season! Day 2 of the Virginia State Rowing Championships (VSRC) (aka “States”) is this Saturday at Sandy Run Regional Park. Student-athletes know which category they are racing in for States. Line up questions should be directed to your coach.

        Feel free to check these websites for more information: Regatta Central and VASRA.

        Tips for regatta watching here: https://woodsonrowing.org/regatta-spectator/.

        A. ATTENDANCE: The following boats will race this weekend: WJr4+, 1Vs and 2Vs. While no novice boats row at this regatta, novice athletes are highly encouraged to attend.

          B. TIMING: The draft Heat Sheet is available. You can find it here: VSRC Day 2 Heat Sheet. Remember that the heat times are subject to change up until race day, so keep an eye out for the cheat sheet from coaches for more concise start times.

          As of right now, our boats are racing at the following times:
          WJr4+: Event 9, 9:56a, Heat 2, Lane 4. Top 3 advance to finals.
          W1V: Event 17, 10:52a, Heat 1, Lane 4. Top 2 to Grand Final, next 2 to Petite Final.
          M1V: Event 21, 11:20a, Heat 2, Lane 2. Top 2 to Grand Final, next 2 to Petite Final.
          W2V: Event 27, Heat 3, lane 4. Top 2 to advance to finals.
          M2V: Event 28, Heat 1, Lane 1. Top 3 advance to finals.

          You might notice some differences in the 1V descriptions above re: advancement to finals. Since this is a championship regatta, the top 12 boats in the 1V category will race twice to determine placement from 1-12. The Grand Final is the top 6 boats while the Petite Final represents places 7-12.

          The finals schedule is as follows:
          WJr4+: Event 32, 1:37p
          W2V: Event 38, 2:37p
          M2V: Event 39, 2:47p
          M1V Petite Final: Event 44, 3:22p
          M1V Grand Final: Event 45. 3:29p
          W1V Petite Final: Event 46, 3:36p
          W1V Grand Final: Event 47, 3:43p

          C. OFF-SITE PARKING FOR SPECTATORS: There is no spectator/visitor parking at Sandy Run. Off-site parking is located at a local commuter parking lot for this regatta. Parents driving athletes can drop off at Sandy Run and then proceed to the off-site parking located at: SOUTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL, 8501 Silverbrook Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

            D. SHUTTLE SPECIFICS: Shuttle buses will run between South County High School and Lot C at Sandy Run. The cost of the shuttles is $10 ONE WAY ($20 round trip). Cash is preferred. You may pay for each leg OR purchase a round-trip ticket when you board. Should you purchase a round-trip ticket, please retain the ticket for the return trip or you risk being asked to pay a one-way fare on the way back.

              E. ONSITE PARKING: Onsite parking is limited to the groups below only. There is no fee for these groups to park at Sandy Run.

                • ATHLETES: Loisvale Lot. Plan for the 10 minute walk to the boathouse! Athletes are highly encouraged to carpool with other athletes. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGE IN POLICY FROM PREVIOUS  YEARS: Athletes driving themselves may drive solo, but are not allowed to park onsite with any non-athlete passengers, unless there is at least one additional athlete in the car as well.
                • VOLUNTEERS: Lot D.
                • COACHES: Lot D. Please display your green coach hangtag.
                • STAFF / LOC: Lot B, second row from the back.
                • HANDICAPPED: Lot C, as designated. It is requested that you contact [email protected] prior to the regatta to ensure all accommodations can be met.

                F. CONCESSIONS : Remember that the concession stands, both at the grandstand and at VASRA HQ (by the boathouses), serve up a full menu of food and drinks. They also sell shirts! Interested in purchasing items? Remember to bring cash to make your life easier. Money collected during regattas at the concession stand is used to offset expenses that would be passed down to the teams.Find concession menus on the VASRA website here: https://www.vasra.org/regattas/concessions-menu

                  Get ready to PULL FOR WOODSON this weekend and we will see the student-athletes at the pre-regatta dinner tomorrow night!

                  4. PLEASE SHARE YOUR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
                  Thank you to so many parents and athletes who are taking photos and videos at practice and regattas! Find the EASY UPLOAD LINKS for all your 2025 photos on our website: Woodson Rowing photo upload links.

                  Questions, problems or photos from previous years to upload? Contact our team photographer, Matt, via Slack or email ([email protected]).

                  5. STOTESBURY REGISTRATION AND FORMS DEADLINE: TOMORROW!!
                  Even if you have already registered and paid for your athlete, you MUST print out and sign the required forms and bring them to practice or to the team dinner on Friday. Find links to forms and a ton of other updated information here: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury/. 

                  In addition, Stotesbury is a USRowing regatta, so in order to participate everyone needs to be USRowing members. The team has purchased memberships for everyone participating. You need to go into the USRowing website and sign their waiver (and if your kid is over 18 they need to do the waiver and also safe sport sign off).

                  To sign the US Rowing e-waiver, follow these instructions:

                  • Visit https://membership.usrowing.org and hover your mouse over the ‘Log In’ button under ‘Individuals.’ Select ‘Express Agreement.’
                  • On the Express Waiver page, choose the email tab. Enter the email address of the parent who registered for the team and birthdate of your athlete.
                  • You will receive an email with a link for Express Login, click on the link and follow the directions to complete the express waiver.
                  • If Safe Sport training is required for your athlete (18+) you will be able to navigate to this from your student’s profile page.

                  Questions? Send a message to Catherine Backmeyer via Slack!

                  6. LOTS OF VOLUNTEERING NEEDS!
                  As a reminder, failure to meet your volunteer credits by the end of the season will result in a $200 per credit charge. Questions about the status of your family’s fulfillment of volunteer requirements should be sent to Lisa Veigel, Volunteer Coordinator. Click any of the links below to fulfill your current volunteer credits:

                  7. ALREADY PLANNING FOR THE OFF-SEASON?
                  If you’re already wondering how your athlete is going to maintain their level of fitness in the off-season or you’re just a forward thinker: we have opportunities for you!

                  A. RENT-AN-ERG: The team will have a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. The cost to rent an erg will be $200.00 (pre-paid). Pick up will be at the end of season banquet on Wednesday, 5/28. Ergs will be returned prior to the start of winter conditioning in October 2025. Reserve your erg here: https://woodsonrowing.org/erg-rental/

                    B. BUY-AN-ERG: The team has a used Model C Concept2 Rowing Machine available for sale. This is being sold on an as-is basis, first-come-first-served. The cost is $250. Contact Riz Ramakdawala via Slack if you are interested.

                      C. GET YOUR SCHOOL PHYSICAL OUT OF THE WAY: Each year, it is required that all student athletes have a completed VHSL physical on file before participating in sports. Completing that physical at the end of the school year  means that you won’t run into rushing to get a physical at the start of the crew season next year!

                        To aid in that end, the Athletic Training Programs at various high schools in NoVA hold a Sports Physical Night. The goal of Sports Physical Night is to provide a complete pre-participation examination screening that will leave student athletes with a valid VHSL physical for the entirety of the 2025-26 school year. The cost for the physical is $50. 

                        The Athletic Training Program receives no funding from FCPS, and this event is their ONLY fundraiser for the year. ALL proceeds go towards helping the program purchase supplies. 

                        Sign up for an appointment for a physical here. Even If you cannot make the Woodson event on June 10, sign up for another school’s event using the same form.

                        NOTE: There is a NEW VHSL Physical Form for the 2025-2026 school year! Make sure that you use the NEW form (it says April 2025 in the top right corner), whether you take advantage of the Athletic Training Program’s event or use your own doctor.

                        8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
                        This calendar is constantly updated as events are added. Scroll here for a quick rundown of what’s up and coming. Where relevant and/or available, links are provided for more information. You can also see a visual representation of our calendar on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

                        MAY

                        JUNE

                        SUPPORT THE TEAM!

                        VIEW AND UPLOAD PHOTOS: Visit our Woodson Rowing photos page for more information on how you can help protect our legacy with photographs!

                        REP THE TEAM WITH PRIDE!

                        There are many ways for you to shop and benefit the team all while sporting your support! See our Spirit Wear Page for more info!

                        SPONSOR WOODSON ROWING!

                        Visit our Sponsorship Page or contact Woodson Rowing Fundraising.

                        FEELING GENEROUS?

                        No amount is too small or too big and is a HUGE part of our successes!!
                        Visit our Donors page for information on how your donation will be used!

                        FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

                        Posted on

                        May 6, 2025 Newsletter

                        WOW! What a way to kick off the championship season! Woodson Rowing brought home the WN8+ state title for the 3rd year in a row AND a bid for Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA) Nationals for the MFr8+. We are picking up steam as we head into Day 2 of VSRC “States,” Stotesbury, and now SRAA Nationals planning!

                        1. VSRC DAY 2 ON SATURDAY

                        2. STOTESBURY: REGISTRATION & FORMS DUE THIS FRIDAY, MAY 9
                        A. REGISTRATION
                        B. REQUIRED FORMS
                        C. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
                        D. JOIN THE SLACK CHANNEL
                        E. OTHER STOTESBURY NEWS

                        3. SRAA NATIONALS

                        4. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

                        SUPPORT THE TEAM!

                        1. VSRC DAY 2 ON SATURDAY
                        On Virginia Scholastic Rowing Championship Day 2, the following boats will be racing: 1Vs, 2Vs, WJr4+. Athletes with questions about line ups should consult their coaches. All athletes and families are encouraged to come out and cheer. Reminder that the Friday night dinner is for ALL athletes, not just those that are racing the next day.

                        2. STOTESBURY: REGISTRATION & FORMS DUE THIS FRIDAY, MAY 9
                        Find this year’s line ups here: 2025 Stotesbury Athlete List. All race entries, to include alternate rowers/coxswains, are made at the discretion of the Woodson Rowing Head Coach. Our coaches try to take as many competitive boats as possible. Athletes can direct their questions on lineups to the coaches.

                        A. REGISTRATION
                        Click the link to register your athlete: 2025 STOTESBURY REGISTRATION

                        If you completed registration and forgot to include your spectator add-ons, please use this link to purchase your meal pass(es) and/or bus ride: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotes-addons/

                        B. REQUIRED FORMS
                        Once you have registered your athlete, there are several forms that you must download, fill out, and print. The following forms are required for all athlete attendees. The forms must be completed, printed, signed, and turned in to our Membership Chair.

                        1. Code of Conduct (Separate Student and Parent Acknowledgement)
                        2. Emergency Contact Information Form
                        3. FCPS Field Trip Form

                        Forms must be hard copies and may be provided to Catherine Backmeyer by either: providing forms to Sarah or Madeline Backmeyer at practice OR coordinating with Catherine via Slack for alternative arrangements.

                        C. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
                        Just like everything else we do, we will need a lot of parent volunteers.  Whether or not you are traveling to Philadelphia, we need you to help the team prepare in the days prior to travel and to help during the trip. Visit the Stotesbury Volunteer Sign Up for the long list of volunteering opportunities available, both at home and at the race site.

                        We are in particular need of BOAT PARENTS. With the lack of interest in staying at the athlete hotel, we released the rooms initially reserved for boat parents.You must provide your own transportation to the athlete hotel in the evening and morning BUT, this is a great gig for anyone that would like to ride the athlete buses to the water and back because you’ll always be in the right place at the right time!! Boat parents check on the kids at night and make sure they are settled in their rooms and then again in the morning to make sure they are up in time to eat or get a grab-n-go breakfast and are ready for the bus when it’s their time to go. Your athlete doesn’t have to be in the boat for you to serve in this important role. Please sign up now!

                        D. JOIN THE SLACK CHANNEL
                        If your athlete is on the 2025 Stotesbury Athlete List, you should have already been added to the #2025-stotesbury  Channel on Slack. Make sure you check that channel to stay abreast of all updates. We will be posting updates there before and DURING the trip. So, it will be your one-stop-shop for information.

                        E. OTHER STOTESBURY NEWS
                        The schedule for finals has been posted on the Stotesbury Cup Regatta website, but we have yet to receive the heats/time trials information. Time trials work very differently at Stotesbury than at our regular season regattas. The time trials are “head races. Each boat starts at a different time down the course. Your total completion time determines if you move to the semi-finals. The curious can read more here: https://stotesburycupregatta.com/time-trials/

                        3. SRAA NATIONALS
                        For folks that like to do their own research, your place to start is our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/sraa/.

                        After many discussions last weekend regarding SRAA Nationals and how a boat/team qualifies, you can check out the rules here: https://www.sraa.net/rules.html

                        Here is the short of it:
                        Of the boats we race, not all are “official” categories for SRAA Nationals. The boats that we race that are in qualifying categories are: 1Vs, 2Vs, Jr4+ and Freshman. Jr4+, Freshman and 1V performance is not tied to any other boats: the top 3 in those categories at States win a bid to Nationals. 2Vs, however, must FIRST have the 1V place in the top 3 AND THEN place in the top 2 at States to earn their own individual bid.

                        This is why the WN8+, despite winning the state championship, is not eligible to attend Nationals.

                        Once racing has concluded on Saturday, May 10, more information about SRAA Nationals will be released to those who qualify. Stay tuned!

                        4. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
                        This calendar is constantly updated as events are added. Scroll here for a quick rundown of what’s up and coming. Where relevant and/or available, links are provided for more information. You can also see a visual representation of our calendar on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

                        MAY

                        SUPPORT THE TEAM!

                        VIEW AND UPLOAD PHOTOS: Visit our Woodson Rowing photos page for more information on how you can help protect our legacy with photographs!

                        REP THE TEAM WITH PRIDE!

                        There are many ways for you to shop and benefit the team all while sporting your support! See our Spirit Wear Page for more info!

                        SPONSOR WOODSON ROWING!

                        Visit our Sponsorship Page or contact Woodson Rowing Fundraising.

                        FEELING GENEROUS?

                        No amount is too small or too big and is a HUGE part of our successes!!
                        Visit our Donors page for information on how your donation will be used!

                        FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

                        Posted on

                        VSRC Day 1

                        Welcome to a special edition newsletter as we head into day 1 of the Virginia State Rowing Championships! We will have 4 boats competing this weekend: the WN4+, M3V, MFr8+ and WN8+. We are so proud of your hard work all season and can’t wait to watch you race! #pullforwoodson!

                        1. TEAM DINNER FOR ALL ATHLETES
                        2. VSRC DAY 1 VOLUNTEERS
                        3. VSRC DAY 1 LOGISTICS
                        4. PLEASE SHARE YOUR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
                        5. STOTESBURY REGISTRATION IS LIVE!
                        6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

                        SUPPORT THE TEAM!

                        1. TEAM DINNER FOR ALL ATHLETES
                        The menu for our Friday team dinner is Chipotle! Specifically: chicken and steak, cilantro lime rice, black beans, fajita veggies, pico de gallo, corn salsa, lettuce, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese and tortillas (flour and corn). Dietary restrictions accommodated. Assorted cookies for dessert. Please encourage ALL athletes to attend dinner and support the junior boats before States!

                        2. VSRC DAY 1 VOLUNTEERS
                        All volunteer slots for this weekend are full. THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS! Gentle reminder that if you sign up, you’re expected to volunteer. If it is a regatta weekend and you are unable to fulfill your duties, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa Veigel, so that she can try to help you find a replacement for your shift.

                          3. VSRC DAY 1 LOGISTICS
                          It’s championship season! Day 1 of the Virginia State Rowing Championships (VSRC) (aka “States”) is this Saturday at Sandy Run Regional Park. Student-athletes know which category they are racing in for States. Line up questions should be directed to your coach.

                            Feel free to check these websites for more information: Regatta Central and VASRA. Tips for regatta watching here: https://woodsonrowing.org/regatta-spectator/.

                            A. ATTENDANCE
                            The following boats will race this weekend: WN4+, M3V, MFr8+ and WN8+. While no varsity boats row at this regatta, varsity athletes are highly encouraged to attend.

                              B. TIMING
                              The schedule has not yet been released. But, VASRA has confirmed that racing will begin at 9:00am. Unless told otherwise by a coach, athletes are advised to be at the boathouse no later than two hours before their scheduled race, and coxswains must be there for the coxswain’s meeting. More specific timing information will be communicated via Slack as it becomes available.

                                C. OFF-SITE PARKING FOR SPECTATORS
                                There is no spectator/visitor parking at Sandy Run. Off-site parking is located at a local commuter parking lot for this regatta. Parents driving athletes can drop off at Sandy Run and then proceed to the off-site parking located at: SOUTH COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL, 8501 Silverbrook Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

                                  C. SHUTTLE SPECIFICS
                                  Shuttle buses will run between South County High School and Lot C at Sandy Run. The cost of the shuttles is $10 ONE WAY ($20 round trip). Cash is preferred. You may pay for each leg OR purchase a round-trip ticket when you board. Should you purchase a round-trip ticket, please retain the ticket for the return trip or you risk being asked to pay a one-way fare on the way back.

                                    D. ONSITE PARKING
                                    Onsite parking is limited to the groups below only. There is no fee for these groups to park at Sandy Run.

                                      • ATHLETES: Loisvale Lot. Plan for the 10 minute walk to the boathouse! Athletes are highly encouraged to carpool with other athletes. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGE IN POLICY FROM PREVIOUS  YEARS: Athletes driving themselves may drive solo, but are not allowed to park onsite with any non-athlete passengers, unless there is at least one additional athlete in the car as well.
                                      • VOLUNTEERS: Lot D.
                                      • COACHES: Lot D. Please display your green coach hangtag.
                                      • STAFF / LOC: Lot B, second row from the back.
                                      • HANDICAPPED: Lot C, as designated. It is requested that you contact [email protected] prior to the regatta to ensure all accommodations can be met.

                                      E. CONCESSIONS 
                                      Remember that the concession stands, both at the grandstand and at VASRA HQ (by the boathouses), serve up a full menu of food and drinks. They also sell shirts! Interested in purchasing items? Remember to bring cash to make your life easier. Money collected during regattas at the concession stand is used to offset expenses that would be passed down to the teams.Find concession menus on the VASRA website here: https://www.vasra.org/regattas/concessions-menu

                                        Get ready to PULL FOR WOODSON this weekend and we will see the student-athletes at the pre-regatta dinner tomorrow night!

                                        4. PLEASE SHARE YOUR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
                                        Thank you to so many parents and athletes who are taking photos and videos at practice and regattas! Find the EASY UPLOAD LINKS for all your 2025 photos on our website: Woodson Rowing photo upload links.

                                        Questions, problems or photos from previous years to upload? Contact our team photographer, Matt, via Slack or email ([email protected]).

                                        5. STOTESBURY REGISTRATION IS LIVE!
                                        Athlete registration is now live!
                                        (1) Verify that your athlete is on the roster here: 2025 Draft Stotes Line Up  
                                        (2) Register your athlete here:https://woodsonrowing.org/stotes-registration/
                                        (3) If you don’t do your add ons during the primary registration above, use this link to take advantage of the meal pass(es) and/or bus from Woodson to PA and back: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotes-addons/
                                        (4) Find links to forms and a ton of other updated information here: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury/.

                                          6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

                                          This calendar is constantly updated as events are added. Scroll here for a quick rundown of what’s up and coming. Where relevant and/or available, links are provided for more information. You can also see a visual representation of our calendar on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

                                          MAY

                                          SUPPORT THE TEAM!

                                          VIEW AND UPLOAD PHOTOS: Visit our Woodson Rowing photos page for more information on how you can help protect our legacy with photographs!

                                          REP THE TEAM WITH PRIDE!

                                          There are many ways for you to shop and benefit the team all while sporting your support! See our Spirit Wear Page for more info!

                                          SPONSOR WOODSON ROWING!

                                          Visit our Sponsorship Page or contact Woodson Rowing Fundraising.

                                          FEELING GENEROUS?

                                          No amount is too small or too big and is a HUGE part of our successes!!
                                          Visit our Donors page for information on how your donation will be used!

                                          FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA