🛶4/21/2026 Newsletter

Updates for athletes, parents, and supporters of Woodson Rowing.
Questions, ideas or feedback? Just reply to this newsletter!


What matters this week:

🙋 Volunteer reminder  
🎓 Senior Night (4/24)


🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Regatta Schedule

👉 Senior Night Sign Up Genius

👉 Stotesbury Info

👉 Spirit Wear

👉 Volunteer Signup Hub


🙋 VOLUNTEER REMINDER: SIGN UP REQUIRED

A quick reminder about volunteer sign-ups:

All volunteer credits must be earned through advance sign-up via SignUpGenius. Each shift is assigned to one person, and only those signed up will receive credit.

If you’re hoping to help with a shift that’s already full, please reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator ahead of time — we’re always happy to try to find a way to include you.

Thank you to everyone who continues to show up and support our athletes — we couldn’t do this without you.


🎓 SENIOR NIGHT (4/24)

This Friday’s team dinner will also be our senior night!

Senior Families:
👉 RSVP here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508094EAAAA2DA64-61622592-senior#/

Athletes:
🎩 Coaches will give you time to go home and change. The sooner you are at dinner the more quickly we can get started.

🚗 Carpools: plan for a later pickup

Volunteers:

All volunteer slots are filled. Thank you!
Visit the Volunteer Signup Hub to review your duties.

Menu from Noodles & Co:

  • Creamy Mac & Cheese
  • Basil Pesto Cavatappi w/ Grilled Chicken
  • Chicken Parmesan
  • Spaghetti
  • Basil Pesto Cavatappi (veg)
  • Meatballs
  • Cheesy Garlic Bread
  • Mixed Greens Salad w/ Veggies
  • Dessert: Vanilla and Chocolate Sheet Cake

Recorded dietary restrictions have been accommodated.

Coach Joe is also serving his famous gumbo for the novices.


🤓 AL URQUIA REGATTA (4/25)

Thursday’s newsletter will include everything you need to know about the Al Urquia Regatta (Saturday, 4/25).

Since prom is the same night, Coach Tylander is asking to run heats early in the morning, with finals by midday. The goal is to release athletes by 3:00 PM.

Stay tuned for more information.


🚣🏽 STOTESBURY HOTEL INFO

For planning purposes, general details can be found here: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury/

🏨 Spectator Hotel Block

A limited room block is available for spectators (booking within the block is optional).

👉 Book here: Woodson Rowing Parents Group Block

Room Rate: $239/night + taxes and fees  

Arrival: Thursday, 5/14/2025  

Departure: Saturday, 5/16/2025  

Cut-off date to secure the rate: Tuesday, April 28, 2025


🤝 WE NEED BOARD MEMBERS FOR NEXT SEASON

As the season progresses, you’re seeing how much goes into keeping Woodson Rowing running smoothly behind the scenes. Many of you have shared great ideas — consider helping bring those ideas to life by joining the Board.

We will have several Board positions opening for next season, including:

  • Volunteering
  • VASRA
  • Senior VP
  • Fundraising

Support roles will also be available, including RAFT (regatta food).

You do not need prior experience — and you won’t be thrown in alone. The best way to get started is to shadow someone this season and learn the role before stepping into it.

Even if a position isn’t officially open, there is often flexibility to shift roles and bring new people onto the Board.

👉 Curious? Reach out to a current Board member via Slack to learn more.
🧠 Can’t remember who’s who? https://woodsonrowing.org/board-of-directors/


🎉 SPIRIT WEAR

You’ve seen other spectators at the regattas all decked out — don’t be left out!

🔗 Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear!


📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

✅ Bookmark these dates–your quick reference for the season.


APRIL
Apr 24: Senior Night at Athlete Team Dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 25: Al Urquia Regatta, Sandy Run

MAY

May 1: Athlete Team Dinner (Cafe B)
May 2: Virginia State Champs, Day 1, Sandy Run

May 8: Athlete Team Dinner (Cafe B)

May 9: Virginia State Champs, Day 2, Sandy Run
May 15: Stotesbury (select boats), Philadelphia, PA
May 22: Nationals (qualifiers only), Oak Ridge, TN

🗓️Full calendar here


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In honor of our seniors: “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

— A. A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh)

Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta: What You Need to Know (04/18)

This edition is your go-to guide for race day—read through and plan ahead to avoid race-day stress.

Weather is expected to be sunny and hot. It will be a long day with prelims and finals.
Plan accordingly!


What matters most:

💪 VASRA Waiver due ASAP — required to race

🙋Volunteer slots are FULL — thank you! If you can’t fulfill your shift, contact Lisa Veigel ASAP to arrange coverage.


📄 VASRA WAIVER (REQUIRED)

All athletes must have a completed VASRA waiver to race.

If you have not yet completed the waiver, you should have received an email from our Membership Chair with instructions and a direct link.

👉 Complete the waiver here: https://waivers.regattacentral.com/VASRA2026

Athletes without a completed waiver will not be allowed to race—please take care of this immediately if you have not already done so.


🔗 KEY LINKS

👉 Regatta Central (schedule & entries)

👉 VASRA (results & updates)

👉 @VASRA_SRRP (follow for real time updates)

👉 Drone coverage (available through Maverick Rowing)


🐻‍❄️RYZ OBUCHOWICZ REGATTA, 4/18

Woodson will race 9 boats between ~10:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Expect a lot of downtime between races—plan accordingly.

Some athletes will race multiple times, and there will be both heats and finals for most boats.

  • Heats = preliminary races that determine advancement
  • Finals = later races based on heat results
  • Flights = single, stand-alone races (no advancement)

The final schedule and the coaches’ cheat sheet will be shared via Slack when available.


🚣🏽ATHLETE ATTENDANCE

  • Rowers: arrive 2 hours before race
  • Coxswains: must attend coxswain meeting
  • Athletes should plan to stay for the full duration of racing, including finals, unless told otherwise by coaches.

Lineups will be posted on Slack (and social media) once finalized.

☀️ Heat Reminder:

It will be a long, hot day. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. The team will have a cooling station at the boathouse to help keep you cool.


🚗 SPECTATOR PARKING (READ THIS)

There is NO spectator parking at Sandy Run.
⏱️ Build in extra time — traffic and lines are common

Step 1: Drop off athletes at Sandy Run.

Step 2: Park at offsite location (UPDATED):
📍 South County High School
8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA 22079

Step 3: Take shuttle to venue
💵 $10 each way ($20 total), cash preferred.
🎽Athletes in uniform ride free
⌚Shuttles run from 7:00 AM until 1 hour after the last race

Step 4: From Lot C to Grandstand
🚶Walk: Unpaved and hilly (~20 minutes)
🚕Shuttle van: $5 each way, cash is preferred.


🚘 ONSITE PARKING

Onsite parking is limited and not available to spectators.

  • Handicapped: Lot C (left after gated entry)
  • Athletes: Loisvale Lot (short walk to the boathouse; if full, park offsite)

⚠️ Important: If spectators are in the car, you should expect to be directed to drop-off only. Spectators will be required to park offsite. Plan accordingly to avoid delays.

  • Volunteers: Lot D (right after gated entry)
  • Coaches: Lot D (display hangtag)
  • Staff/LOC/Referees: Lot B (paved lot closest to the water)

🍔 FOOD

  • Athletes: snacks provided; pack extra if needed
  • Spectators: concession stand available
  • Bring cash (Wi-Fi is unreliable)

👉 Concession menu: https://www.vasra.org/regattas/concessions-menu


🎉SPECTATOR TIPS AND CHEERING

🪑 Sit together—look for Woodson gear. Bring chairs or blankets (concrete grandstands).

☀️ It will be a long, hot day. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Plan for extended time in direct sun.

📣 When a Woodson boat heads to the start, we cheer: “HEY, WOODSON!”

🛜 Wi-Fi is unreliable—plan accordingly.


👕 SPIRIT WEAR!

Show your support and benefit the team: Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


🕊️ About the Regatta Name

The Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta is named in honor of Ryszard “Ryz” Obuchowicz, a longtime supporter of scholastic rowing in our region.

Ryz began as a parent volunteer and went on to become a highly respected referee, clinician, and leader within the rowing community. He played a key role in organizing and supporting regattas across the DC/Baltimore area and was deeply committed to growing the sport at the high school level.

He passed away in 2014, and this regatta honors the lasting impact he had on the rowing community.


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Continuous effort — not strength or intelligence — is the key to unlocking our potential.”

— Winston Churchill

Tri-Meet Scrimmage: What You Need to Know (4/11)

This edition is your go-to guide for race day—read through and plan ahead to avoid race-day stress.

The weather is expected to be sunny but cool in the early morning. Bring layers


What matters most (don’t skip this):

💪 Plan your travel — Cherry Blossom Festival road closures may impact your trip.


🔗 KEY LINK

👉 https://woodsonrowing.org/tri-meet/
(This page has everything you need for this regatta—start here.)


🏘️ TRI-MEET SCRIMMAGE, 4/11

This scrimmage is a great opportunity to watch racing up close. Instead of grandstands, spectators stand right at the water’s edge—making it easy to see the action and connect with other Woodson families.

📍 Athlete Drop-off & Pick-up:
Anacostia Community Boathouse
1900 M St SE
Washington, DC 20003

👓Spectators (across the river):
Anacostia Park
1900 Anacostia Drive
Washington, DC 20020


Plan for the Day

  • 🚗 Drop athletes off at 7:00 AM
  • 🏁 Racing: ~9:30-11:30 AM

🚣  ATHLETE REMINDERS

  • Bring plenty of snacks (none will be provided)
  • Water is available onsite for refills
  • Bring sunscreen
  • Bring anything you need for a full morning outdoors

Athletes should plan to stay for the duration of the scrimmage unless otherwise directed by coaches.

More details: see the regatta page above.


👓 SPECTATOR REMINDERS

  • ❌ No parking at the drop off location.
  • Proceed directly to Anacostia Park for spectating.
  • There is no shelter and no guaranteed restroom access — plan accordingly

More details: see the regatta page above.


🚗 ARRIVAL & PICK-UP

⚠️The Anacostia Boathouse is located on a very narrow road.
Plan for a quick drop-off and exit—do not linger in the area.

There will be another set of scrimmages at 12:30 PM, so expect some traffic at pick up.


🪑 WHAT TO BRING (SPECTATORS & ATHLETES)

Plan for a full morning outdoors:

  • Folding chairs or blankets
  • Warm layers
  • Food and drinks
  • Binoculars and/or cameras

🍔 FOOD (IMPORTANT)

💧 Water is available onsite

🚫 No food will be provided at this scrimmage

Bring snacks/meals as needed.


📣 DAY-OF COMMUNICATION

Check Slack for real-time updates, including any schedule changes or important announcements.


📸 PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Thank you to everyone capturing photos and videos—these are incredibly valuable to the team!

👉 Upload here:
https://woodsonrowing.smugmug.com/upload/bktK5S/2026TriMeet

Questions or issues? Contact our team photographer, Matt Olman, via Slack.


👕SPIRIT WEAR

Show your support and benefit our team: Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“It’s not the will to win that matters — everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.”

— Paul “Bear” Bryant

🛶 4/7/2026 Newsletter

Updates for athletes, parents, and supporters of Woodson Rowing.
Questions, ideas or feedback? Just reply to this newsletter!


What matters this week:

♀️ Practice change tomorrow (girls team only)

🍽️ First Friday Night Dinner, 4/10 


🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Tri-Meet Info

👉 Regatta Schedule

👉 Senior Night Sign Up Genius

👉 Stotesbury Info

👉 Spirit Wear

👉 Volunteer Signup Hub


♀️ Girls’ Team Practice Change (4/8)

The girls team will attend Monika’s College Commitment Ceremony tomorrow from 3:30–4:15 PM in the Woodson Auditorium. Practice will take place at the school immediately afterward.

Athletes should bring running shoes and, if applicable, erging/lifting shoes.

Questions? Post on Slack.


🍽️ FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER (4/10)

It is a tradition for our athletes to gather at Woodson after Friday practices to enjoy dinner together before each regatta.

Key info for this Friday’s team dinner:

Athletes:
📍 Cafeteria B immediately after practice ends.

🥕 Food will be served as soon as most of the athletes arrive.

🚗 Carpools: plan for pick-up between 7:30–8:00 PM

Volunteers:

All volunteer slots are filled. Thank you!
Visit the Volunteer Signup Hub to review your duties.

Menu (Matchbox catering + parent-prepared sliders):

  • Chicken sliders
  • Vegetarian sliders (veg)
  • Mini burgers
  • Chicken wings
  • Chicken fettuccini alfredo
  • Spaghetti pomodoro (veg)
  • Green salad w/ cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and croutons and dressings (veg)
  • Dessert: Assorted Nabisco cookies (nut-free) and fruit snacks (gluten-free).

Recorded dietary restrictions have been accommodated.


🤓 TRI-MEET SCRIMMAGE (4/11)

Thursday’s newsletter will include everything you need to know about the Tri-Meet Scrimmage (Saturday, 4/11). This is a much more relaxed racing day as there are no officials (other than our coaches). However, the viewing is excellent right from the side of the course.

Keep an eye on our website for updates: https://woodsonrowing.org/tri-meet/


🚣🏽 STOTESBURY HOTEL INFO

It may feel far away, but it’s approaching quickly. For planning purposes, general details can be found here: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury/

🏨 Spectator Hotel Block

A limited room block is available for spectators (booking within the block is optional).

👉 Book here: Woodson Rowing Parents Group Block

Room Rate: $239/night + taxes and fees  

Arrival: Thursday, 5/14/2025  

Departure: Saturday, 5/16/2025

Cut-off date to secure the rate: Tuesday, April 28, 2025


🤝 LOOKING AHEAD: BOARD POSITIONS FOR NEXT SEASON

As the season moves along, you’re seeing just how much goes into keeping Woodson Rowing running smoothly behind the scenes.

We will have several Board positions opening for next season, including:

• Volunteering
• VASRA
• Senior VP
• Fundraising

If you’ve ever thought, “I could help with something like that,” this is a great time to start exploring.

You do not need prior experience — and you won’t be thrown in alone. The best way to get started is to shadow someone this season and learn the role before stepping into it.

Even if a position isn’t officially open, there is often flexibility to shift roles and bring new people onto the Board.

👉 Curious? Reach out to a current Board member via Slack to learn more. Most of our current Board members started the same way — by simply asking questions.

🧠 Can’t remember who’s who? https://woodsonrowing.org/board-of-directors/

The strength of this program depends on families stepping in to support it — and many hands truly do make light work.


🎉 SPIRIT WEAR

You’ve seen other spectators at the regattas all decked out — don’t be left out!

🔗 Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear!


📷 MEDIA DAY PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Media day photos can be viewed and purchased through Victor O’Neill via the links below:


Boys Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1974936448

Girls Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1206143003

Any questions re: these photos should be directed to the Victor O’Neill Studios customer service team at [email protected]


📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

✅ Bookmark these dates–your quick reference for the season.

APRIL

Apr 10: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 11: Tri-Meet Scrimmage, Anacostia Boathouse, DC
Apr 17: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)

Apr 18: Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE
Apr 24: Senior Night at Athlete Team Dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 25: Al Urquia Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.

MAY

May 1: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
May 2: Virginia State Champs, Day 1, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.

May 8: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)

May 9: Virginia State Champs, Day 2, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 15: Stotesbury (select boats), Philadelphia, PA
May 22: Nationals (qualifiers only), Oak Ridge, TN

🗓️Full calendar here


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“It’s not the will to win that matters — everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.”

— Paul “Bear” Bryant

🛶 3/31/2026 Spring Break Newsletter

Updates for athletes, parents, and supporters of Woodson Rowing.
Questions, ideas or feedback? Just reply to this newsletter!


This is the only newsletter this week — no regatta or major events this weekend.


What matters this week:

🍜 Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser TODAY (3/31)  

🧘 No practice Saturday or Sunday


🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Regatta Schedule

👉 Stotesbury Info

👉 Spirit Wear

👉 Volunteer Signup Hub


🍜 NOODLES & CO. RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER (3/31)

Make dinner easy and support the team at the same time!

Fairfax location: 10296 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030 

🕘 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Mention Woodson Rowing when ordering in-store  

• Enter GIVING25 at checkout when ordering online


🌸 Practice Schedule (This Week)

Tuesday, 3/31: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Wednesday, 4/1: 8:30a – 12:30p
Thursday, 4/2: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Friday, 4/3: 8:30a – 1p
Saturday, 4/4 & Sunday, 4/5: No practice

Regular practice resumes on **4/6**, despite school being closed that day.


🎓 Senior Night – RSVP

Parents of seniors — please let us know if you and your family can attend.

📅 Senior Night  

Friday, April 24  

at the team dinner • 7:00 PM

👉 RSVP here: Senior Night Sign Up Genius


🚣🏽 STOTESBURY HOTEL INFO

It may feel far away, but it’s approaching quickly. For planning purposes, general details can be found here: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury/

🏨 Spectator Hotel Block

A limited room block is available for spectators (booking within the block is optional).

👉 Book here: Woodson Rowing Parent’s Group Block

Room Rate: $239/night + taxes and fees  

Arrival: Thursday, 5/14/2025  

Departure: Saturday, 5/16/2025

Cut-off date to secure the rate: Tuesday, April 28, 2025


🎉 SPIRIT WEAR

You’ve seen other spectators at the regattas all decked out — don’t be left out!

🔗 Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear!


📷 MEDIA DAY PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Media day photos can be viewed and purchased through Victor O’Neill via the links below:


Boys Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1974936448

Girls Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1206143003

Any questions re: these photos should be directed to the Victor O’Neill Studios customer service team at [email protected]


📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

✅ Bookmark these dates–your quick reference for the season.

MARCH

Mar 31: Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser, 4:00 – 8:00p

APRIL

Apr 1: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Apr 2: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Apr 3: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 1p
Apr 4: No practice
Apr 5: No practice
Apr 6: Regular practice schedule resumes (4:15-6:45p)
Apr 10: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 11: Tri-Meet Scrimmage, Anacostia Boathouse, DC
Apr 17: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 18: Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
Apr 24: Senior Night at Athlete Team Dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 25: Al Urquia Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.

MAY

May 1: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
May 2: Virginia State Champs, Day 1, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 8: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
May 9: Virginia State Champs, Day 2, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 15: Stotesbury (select boats), Philadelphia, PA
May 22: Nationals (qualifiers only), Oak Ridge, TN

🗓️Full calendar here


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“The boat is fastest when everyone rows as one.”

— Steve Fairbairn

St. Andrew’s Regatta: What You Need to Know (3/28)

This edition is your go-to guide for race day—read through and plan ahead to avoid race-day stress.

The weather is expected to be sunny but cold—bring layers.


What matters most (don’t skip this):

💪 Plan your travel — the regatta is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Woodson. Build in extra time for traffic delays.

🙋 Volunteer slots are FULL — thank you! If you can’t fulfill your shift, contact Lisa Veigel ASAP to arrange coverage


🔗 KEY LINK

👉 https://woodsonrowing.org/standrews/
(This page has everything you need for this regatta—start here.)


🏘️ ST. ANDREW’S REGATTA, 3/28

This regatta is a great opportunity to watch racing up close. Instead of grandstands, spectators stand right at the water’s edge—making it easy to see the action and connect with other Woodson families.

📍 Location:
Rodney Point
560 Noxontown Road
Townsend, DE 19734Plan for the Day

  • 🚗 Depart Fairfax area around 7:00 AM
  • 👕 Athletes: dress for practice
  • 🚣 Practice: 9:45 AM – 12:00 PM
  • 🏁 Racing: ~1:00 – 3:00 PM


ATHLETE REMINDERS

  • Bring plenty of water (no potable water onsite)
  • Bring a sunscreen
  • Pack a portable phone charger and items for downtime between practice and racing
  • Bring anything you personally need for a full day outside

More details: see the regatta page above.


🏨 LODGING OR DRIVE SAME DAY?

This is a personal decision—families do both.
The venue is about 2.5 hours from Woodson, and Middletown, DE (3 miles away) has the closest lodging options.


📸 PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Thank you to everyone capturing photos and videos—these are incredibly valuable to the team!

👉 Upload here:
https://woodsonrowing.smugmug.com/upload/JCBzkr/2026StAndrews

You can also find upload links on our website.

Questions or issues? Contact our team photographer, Matt Olman, via Slack.


🚗 PARKING & ARRIVAL

Drive past the school entrance and turn into the picnic area across the pond. Follow “Crew” signs to our team area.

Look for the Woodson chuckwagon.

⚠️ Parking is on grass and dirt paths — vehicles with low clearance may have difficulty.


🪑 WHAT TO BRING (SPECTATORS & ATHLETES)

Plan for a full day outdoors:

  • Folding chairs or blankets
  • Warm layers
  • Food and drinks
  • Binoculars and/or cameras

🍔 FOOD (IMPORTANT)

🚫 There is NO potable water onsite — bring plenty of water

  • Athletes: food provided by the team
  • Spectators: bring your own food or plan to eat in town before racing

📣 DAY-OF COMMUNICATION

Check Slack for real-time updates, including any schedule changes or important announcements.


👕SPIRIT WEAR

Show your support and benefit our team: Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.”

— John Keating, *Dead Poets Society*

🛶 3/24/26 Newsletter

Updates for athletes, parents, and supporters of Woodson Rowing.
Questions, ideas or feedback? Just reply to this newsletter!


What matters this week:

🏘️ Travel regatta this Saturday (3/28)  

🍜 Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser (3/31)


🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Spirit Wear

👉 St. Andrew’s Regatta Info

👉 Volunteer Signup Hub

👉 Regatta Schedule


🏘️ ST. ANDREW’S REGATTA, 3/28

Thursday’s newsletter will include more information about the St. Andrew’s Regatta. Everything you need to begin planning your trip can be found here: https://woodsonrowing.org/standrews/.

THANK YOU to all volunteers who signed up to work at the regatta. All slots are currently filled! If you have any questions or last-minute concerns, please contact Lisa, our Volunteer Coordinator via Slack.

All boats will race at this regatta. If your athlete is unable to attend, please have them notify their coaches ASAP.


🍜 NOODLES & CO. RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER (3/31)

Make dinner easy and support the team at the same time!

Fairfax location: 10296 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030 

🕘4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Participants can:


• Mention Woodson Rowing when ordering in-store


• Enter GIVING25 at checkout when ordering online


🌸 Spring Break Schedule

The spring break practice schedule below is for both the men’s and women’s teams:

Monday, 3/30: 8:30a – 12:30p
Tuesday, 3/31: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Wednesday, 4/1: 8:30a – 12:30p
Thursday, 4/2: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Friday, 4/3: 8:30a – 1p
Saturday, 4/4 & Sunday, 4/5: No practice

Regular practice resumes on **4/6**, despite school being closed that day.


🎓 Senior Night – RSVP

Parents of seniors — please let us know if you and your family can attend.

📅 Senior Night  

Friday, April 24 at the team dinner  

7:00 PM

👉 RSVP here: Senior Night Sign Up Genius


📝 ALLERGY & DIETARY FORM STILL OPEN

We are leaving the allergy and dietary form open until March 26. Please complete the form if your athlete has any allergies or dietary restrictions. If we don’t have your response, we may not be able to accommodate your athlete’s needs.

👉 Fill out form: Team Dinner Dietary Restrictions & Allergies Form
❓Questions? Contact Gloria Totten via Slack


👖 LOOKING TO UPGRADE YOUR REGATTA DAY OUTFIT?

Check out the newest addition – sweatpants for $45.00!

Order through Monica (Sportswear Chair) via Slack.

Limited availability but more can be ordered.

If you need more than warm pants, don’t forget about our other branded spirit wear. Browse and buy online:

🔗Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear!


📷 MEDIA DAY PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Media day photos can be viewed and purchased through Victor O’Neill via the links below:

Boys Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1974936448

Girls Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1206143003

Any questions re: these photos should be directed to the Victor O’Neill Studios customer service team at [email protected]


📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

✅ Bookmark these dates–your quick reference for the season.

MARCH
Mar 28: St. Andrews Regatta, Middletown, DE – Volunteer HERE
Mar 30: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Mar 31: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Mar 31: Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser, 4:00-8:00p

APRIL

Apr 1: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Apr 2: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Apr 3: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 1p
Apr 4: No practice
Apr 5: No practice
Apr 6: Regular practice schedule resumes (4:15-6:45p)
Apr 10: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 11: Tri-Meet Scrimmage, Anacostia Boathouse, DC
Apr 17: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 18: Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
Apr 24: Senior night at Athlete Team Dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 25: Al Urquia Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.

MAY

May 1: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
May 2: Virginia State Champs, Day 1, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 8: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
May 9: Virginia State Champs, Day 2, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 15: Stotesbury (select boats), Philadelphia, PA
May 22: Nationals (qualifiers only), Oak Ridge, TN

🗓️Full calendar here


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.”

— John Keating, *Dead Poets Society*

Polar Bear Regatta: What You Need to Know (3/21)

Welcome to our first regatta of the season!

This edition is your go-to guide for race day—read through and plan ahead to avoid race-day stress.

Weather is expected to be sunny, but the grandstands are exposed—bring layers.


What matters most:

💪 VASRA Waiver due TODAY (3/19) — required to race

🙋Volunteer slots are FULL — thank you! If you can’t fulfill your shift, contact Lisa Veigel ASAP to arrange coverage.


🔗 KEY LINKS

👉 Regatta Central (schedule & entries)

👉 VASRA (results & updates)

👉 @VASRA_SRRP (follow for real time updates)

🖇️New to Rowing? Start here:

👉 Spectator Tips

👉 Viewer’s Guide

👉 Novice Tips From a Parent


🐻‍❄️POLAR BEAR REGATTA, 3/21

Woodson will race 5 varsity boats between ~9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Final race times will be released tonight or tomorrow and shared via Slack (likely by Friday practice).


🚣🏽ATHLETE ATTENDANCE

  • Varsity: arrive 2 hours before race
  • Novices: attend + scrimmage after regatta (timing via Slack)
  • Coxswains: must attend coxswain meeting

Lineups will be posted on Slack (and social media) once finalized.


🚗 SPECTATOR PARKING (READ THIS)

There is NO spectator parking at Sandy Run.
⏱️ Build in extra time — traffic and lines are common

Step 1: Drop off athletes at Sandy Run.

Step 2: Park at offsite commuter lot:
📍 1325 Old Bridge Rd, Woodbridge

Step 3: Take shuttle to venue
💵 Shuttle cost: $10 each way ($20 total), cash preferred.
🎽Athletes in uniform can ride the shuttle for free
⌚Shuttles run starting at 7:00 AM and continue until 1 hour after the last race. 

Step 4: From Lot C to Grandstand
🚶Walk: Unpaved and hilly, take approx. 20 min
🚕Shuttle van: $5 each way ($10 total), cash is preferred.


🚘 ONSITE PARKING

Onsite parking is limited and not available to spectators.

  • Handicapped: Lot C (left after gated entry)
  • Athletes: Loisvale Lot. Plan for the short hike to the boathouse. If full, proceed to the commuter lot.

    ⚠️ Important: According to VASRA, if spectators are in the car, you should expect to be directed to drop-off only. Spectators will be required to take the vehicle to offsite parking. Plan accordingly to avoid delays or issues on arrival.
  • Volunteers: Lot D (right after gated entry)
  • Coaches: Lot D (display hangtag)
  • Staff/LOC/Referees: Lot B (paved lot closest to the water)

🍔FOOD

  • Athletes: snacks provided; pack extra if needed
  • Spectators: concession stand available
  • Bring cash (Wi-Fi is unreliable)

Concession menus: https://www.vasra.org/regattas/concessions-menu


🎉SPECTATOR TIPS AND CHEERING

🪑Woodson families try to sit together as a team. Look for the swag to know where to sit. Bring folding chairs or blankets because the grandstands are concrete.

📣When a Woodson boat goes down the course on their way to the start, all the parents yell “HEY, WOODSON!” at once. We will know that the kids hear us when a coxswain or rowers take a moment to wave at us.

🛜Do not expect reliable wi-fi service. It is spotty at best.


👕DON’T FORGET YOUR SPIRIT WEAR!

Show your support and benefit our team: Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Racing is life. Everything else is just waiting.”

— Steve McQueen

🛶 3/17/2026 Newsletter

Updates for athletes, parents, and supporters of Woodson Rowing.
Questions, ideas or feedback? Just reply to this newsletter!


Reminder: for the rest of the season, newsletters will follow this schedule:

Tuesday newsletters (today) will focus on action items.

Thursday newsletters will focus on regatta information.


What matters this week:

💪 There will be Friday practice this week

🐻‍❄️ First regatta next weekend (3/21)

🌸 Spring Break schedule released


🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Practice Information

👉 Volunteer Signup Hub

👉 Regatta Schedule


💪PRACTICE ON FRIDAY, 3/20

There will be practice this Friday, 3/20 at the regularly scheduled time. Although this is Eid, the team received permission from FCPS to hold practice. If athletes have conflicts, they should discuss them with their coaches.


🐻‍❄️POLAR BEAR REGATTA, 3/21

Thursday’s newsletter will include everything you need to know about the Polar Bear Regatta on March 21, including parking, timing and lineups.

THANK YOU to all volunteers who signed up to work at the regatta. All slots are currently filled! If you have any questions or last minute concerns, please contact Lisa, our Volunteer Coordinator via Slack.

While novice boats do not race at this regatta, novice athletes are highly encouraged to attend. The coaches have arranged for a scrimmage after the regatta so that the novices can get some racing experience before we go race at St. Andrews. Athletes should direct any regatta-related questions to their coaches.


🤓 REGATTA ETIQUETTE AND MORE

Regattas are a unique experience, and becoming familiar with how they run helps athletes prepare for their first race. Seeing the mechanics and rhythms of a regatta before participating builds confidence and experience.

Plus, it’s fun to watch your teammates race without dealing with your own nerves!

For spectators, this regatta is also a great opportunity to:

• Learn the off-site parking process  

• Walk to the grandstands  

• Experience the energy of a regatta

This regatta is typically shorter than others since only varsity boats race.

Please plan to set aside Saturday morning (or arrange carpools now) to get athletes and spectators to Sandy Run.

If you’re new to the sport of rowing, we have many helpful resources on our website:

Novice Tips From a Parent

Regatta Spectator Tips: How to dress, what to expect and more!

Regatta Viewer’s Guide: General information about rowing and rowing parlance

Regatta Information: General info on the types of regattas we attend as a team

Sandy Run Park: info on the world-class facility where we get to train and race!


🚨 VOLUNTEER NEEDS🧹St. Andrews Regatta, 3/28

Cleanup and takedown volunteer spots still available. You’ll likely already be there — get volunteer credit while helping the team.

👉Sign up here

Visit the Volunteer Hub to see all available roles

Volunteer Credit Requirements:

Each family must complete 5 volunteer credits

  • One shift = one credit
  • At least 1 credit must be a VASRA Workday or regatta-day shift

🌸 Spring Break Schedule

The spring break practice schedule below is for both the men’s and women’s teams:

Monday, 3/30: 8:30a – 12:30p
Tuesday, 3/31: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Wednesday, 4/1: 8:30a – 12:30p
Thursday, 4/2: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Friday, 4/3: 8:30a – 1p
Sat 4/4 & Sun 4/5: No practice

Regular practice resumes on **4/6**, despite school being closed that day.


🎓 Senior Night – DATE CORRECTED

It seems early to be talking about how our very large group of seniors (14!) will be moving on next year, but planning has already begun.

Parents of seniors — please mark your calendars.

📅 Senior Night  

Friday, April 24 at the team dinner  

7:00 PM

👉 RSVP here: Senior Night Sign Up Genius


📝 ALLERGY & DIETARY FORM STILL OPEN

We are leaving the allergy and dietary form open until March 26. Please complete the form if your athlete has any allergies or dietary restrictions. If we don’t have your response, we may not be able to accommodate your athlete’s needs.

👉 Fill out form: Team Dinner Dietary Restrictions & Allergies Form
❓Questions? Contact Gloria Totten via Slack


👖LOOKING TO UPGRADE YOUR REGATTA DAY OUTFIT?

Check out the newest addition – sweatpants for $45.00!

Order through Monica (Sportswear Chair) via Slack.

Limited availability but more can be ordered.

If you need more than warm pants, don’t forget about our other branded spirit wear. Browse and buy online:

🔗Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear!


📷 MEDIA DAY PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Media day photos can be viewed and purchased through Victor O’Neill via the links below:


Boys Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1974936448

Girls Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1206143003

Any questions re: these photos should be directed to the Victor O’Neill Studios customer service team at [email protected]


📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

✅ Bookmark these dates–your quick reference for the season.


MARCH

Mar 21: Polar Bear Regatta (varsity), Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE
Mar 28: St. Andrews Regatta, Middletown, DE – Volunteer HERE

Mar 30: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Mar 31: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p


APRIL

Apr 1: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Apr 2: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Apr 3: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 1p
Apr 4: No practice

Apr 5: No practice

Apr 6: Regular practice schedule resumes (4:15-6:45p)

Apr 10: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 11: Tri-Meet Scrimmage, Anacostia Boathouse, DC
Apr 17: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)

Apr 18: Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
Apr 24: Senior night at athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 25: Al Urquia Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.


MAY

May 1: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
May 2: Virginia State Champs, Day 1, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.

May 8: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)

May 9: Virginia State Champs, Day 2, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 15: Stotesbury (select boats), Philadelphia, PA
May 22: Nationals (qualifiers only), Oak Ridge, TN

🗓️Full calendar here


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Racing is life. Everything else is just waiting.”

— Steve McQueen

🛶 3/13/2026 Newsletter

🛶 Woodson Rowing Newsletter

Updates for athletes, parents, and supporters of Woodson Rowing.
Questions, ideas or feedback? Just reply to this newsletter!


What matters this week:

🌮 Taco Bamba Fundraiser on Monday (3/16)

🗞️ Newsletter schedule changing next week

🐻‍❄️ First regatta next weekend (3/21)

🌸 Spring Break schedule released


🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Practice Information

👉 Volunteer signup hub

👉 Regatta Schedule


🌮 TACO BAMBA FUNDRAISER – MARCH 16

Fairfax location

10629 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032

🕘9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Support Woodson Rowing while enjoying Taco Bamba!

Participants can:
• Mention Woodson Rowing or use coupon code GIVE20 when ordering in-store
• Enter GIVE20 at checkout when ordering online or purchasing gift cards


🗞️CHANGE TO NEWSLETTER TIMING

Starting next week, newsletters will be sent twice per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays).

Tuesday newsletters will focus on action items.

Thursday newsletters will focus on regatta information.


🐻‍❄️POLAR BEAR REGATTA, 3/21

Next week’s Thursday newsletter will include everything you need to know about the Polar Bear Regatta on March 21, including parking, timing and line ups.

While novice boats do not race at this regatta, novice athletes are highly encouraged to attend.

Regattas are a unique experience, and becoming familiar with how they run helps athletes prepare for their first race. Seeing the mechanics and rhythms of a regatta before participating builds confidence and experience.

Plus, it’s fun to watch your teammates race without dealing with your own nerves!

For spectators, this regatta is also a great opportunity to:

• Learn the off-site parking process  

• Walk to the grandstands  

• Experience the energy of a regatta

This regatta is typically shorter than others since only varsity boats race.

Please plan to set aside Saturday morning (or arrange carpools now) to get athletes and spectators to Sandy Run.

If you’re new to the sport of rowing, we have many helpful resources on our website:

Novice Tips from a parent

Regatta Spectator Tips: How to dress, what to expect and more!

Regatta Viewer’s Guide: General information about rowing and rowing parlance

Regatta Information: General info on the types of regattas we attend as a team

Sandy Run Park: info on the world-class facility where we get to train and race!


🚨 VOLUNTEER NEEDS

🐻‍❄️ URGENT: Polar Bear Regatta — March 21

Two volunteer opportunities remain unfilled.
We are required to fill these spots for VASRA:

  • Assistant Dockmaster (Coaches Dock)
  • Launch Boat Driver

👉Sign up here

🧹St. Andrews Regatta, 3/28

Cleanup and takedown volunteer spots are still available.

You’ll likely already be there — get volunteer credit while helping the team.

👉Sign up here

Visit the Volunteer Hub to see all available roles

Volunteer Credit Requirements:

Each family must complete 5 volunteer credits

  • One shift = one credit
  • At least 1 credit must be a VASRA Workday or regatta-day shift

🌸 Spring Break Schedule

The spring break practice schedule below is for both the men’s and women’s teams:

Monday, 3/30: 8:30a – 12:30p
Tuesday, 3/31: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Wednesday, 4/1: 8:30a – 12:30p
Thursday, 4/2: 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Friday, 4/3: 8:30a – 1p
Sat 4/4 & Sun 4/5: No practice

Regular practice resumes on **4/6**, despite school being closed that day.


🎓 Senior Night – DATE CORRECTED

It seems early to be talking about how our very large group of seniors (14!) will be moving on next year, but planning has already begun.

Parents of seniors — please mark your calendars.

📅 Senior Night  

Friday, April 24 at the team dinner  

7:00 PM

👉 RSVP here: Senior Night Sign Up Genius


📝 ALLERGY & DIETARY FORM STILL OPEN

We are leaving the allergy and dietary form open until March 26. Please complete the form if your athlete has any allergies or dietary restrictions. If we don’t have your response, we may not be able to accommodate your athlete’s needs.

👉 Fill out form: Team Dinner Dietary Restrictions & Allergies Form
❓Questions? Contact Gloria Totten via Slack


👖LOOKING TO UPGRADE YOUR REGATTA DAY OUTFIT?

Check out the newest addition – sweatpants for $45.00!

Order through Monica (Sportswear Chair) via Slack and receive at a Saturday morning practice. Limited availability but more can be ordered.

If you need more than warm pants, don’t forget about our other branded spirit wear. Browse and buy online:

🔗Woodson Rowing Spirit Wear!


📷 MEDIA DAY PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Media day photos can be viewed and purchased through Victor O’Neill via the links below:


Boys Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1974936448

Girls Team: https://shop.imagequix.com/s1206143003

Any questions re: these photos should be directed to the Victor O’Neill Studios customer service team at [email protected]


📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

✅ Bookmark these dates–your quick reference for the season.


MARCH

Mar 7: VASRA Workday.
Mar 14: VASRA Workday.
Mar 15: Chuckwagon Workday.
Mar 16: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser
Mar 21: Polar Bear Regatta (varsity), Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE
Mar 28: St. Andrews Regatta, Middletown, DE – Volunteer HERE

Mar 30: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Mar 31: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p


APRIL

Apr 1: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 12:30p
Apr 2: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 10:45a AND 4 – 6:30p
Apr 3: Spring Break practice 8:30a – 1p
Apr 4: No practice

Apr 5: No practice

Apr 6: regular practice schedule resumes (4:15-6:45p)

Apr 10: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 11: Tri-Meet Scrimmage, Anacostia Boathouse, DC
Apr 17: Athlete team dinner (Cafe B)

Apr 18: Ryz Obuchowicz Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
Apr 24: Senior night at athlete team dinner (Cafe B)
Apr 25: Al Urquia Regatta, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.


MAY

May 1 & 8: Athlete team dinners (Cafe B)
May 2: Virginia State Champs, Day 1, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 9: Virginia State Champs, Day 2, Sandy Run – Volunteer HERE.
May 15: Stotesbury (select boats), Philadelphia, PA
May 22: Nationals (qualifiers only), Oak Ridge, TN

🗓️Full calendar here


🌊 STAY INVOLVED

RecruitmentSponsorsSpirit WearPhotos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦


💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Champions are made when nobody is watching.