Category: Newsletter

Posted on

9/11/2026

We have a busy few weeks ahead, startingtomorrow! Here’s what Woodson Rowing families need on their radar.

🚨 START HERE: TWO THINGS HAPPENING TOMORROW

🔧 Boathouse Workday | Saturday, Sept. 12

9:00–11:00 a.m.

We’re getting the boathouse and launches ready for Green Days, and we could use some helping hands.

This is also an easy way to start earning your family volunteer credits early before the spring season gets busy.

👉  Sign up for the boathouse workday

🏊 New Athlete Swim Test | Saturday, Sept. 12

2:00–3:00 p.m. | Audrey Moore Rec Center

New athletes must complete a swim test before participating in any on-the-water activities with Woodson Rowing, including Green Days.

If you haven’t completed yours yet, tomorrow is your chance.

👉 Sign up for a swim test

⸻

🚣 GREEN DAYS START TUESDAY!

Green Days begin Tuesday, Sept. 15 and run through Thursday, Oct. 22.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays | 4:45–6:45 p.m.

Sandy Run Regional Park

Green Days are a great opportunity for athletes to get back on the water, introduce friends to rowing, and start building toward the spring season.

Before participating, ALL athletes MUST:

  • Complete Woodson Activity Registration
  • Have a current VHSL physical on file with the Woodson athletic trainers
  • New athletes: complete a swim test with Woodson Rowing

These requirements must be completed before an athlete can get on the water.

👉 Green Days information & sign-up:

Green Days

⸻

📱 ATHLETES: WE’RE MOVING TO SPORTSYOU

Woodson Rowing is moving athlete communications from Slack to SportsYou. Parents will continue to use Slack, so nothing changes for parent communications.

Athletes: Please make sure you are connected to the Woodson Rowing SportsYou group. If you haven’t joined yet or aren’t sure how, talk to one of the coaches and they’ll help get you set up.

Important coach and team communications for athletes will be moving there, so make sure you’re connected!

⸻

📅 SAVE THE DATE: PARENT INTEREST MEETING

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | 7:30–9:00 p.m. | Woodson High School

New AND returning families, please save the date for our Parent Interest Meeting.

We’ll have more information as we get closer, but put this one on your calendar now.

⸻

💰 TAG DAY IS OCTOBER 10: ALL HANDS ON DECK

TAG Day is Woodson Rowing’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and its success depends on the whole team showing up.

Athletes are required to participate, and we need parents to volunteer as drivers. Simply put: the more people we have, the better the outcome and the faster we can get it done.

We know it is a holiday weekend, but this is the date assigned to us by the school. Please help us make this a success. 

Saturday, Oct. 10

👉 Sign up for TAG Day

Please get this one on your family calendar now.

⸻

🔧 ERG RETURN & WORKDAY | OCTOBER 3

Our next workday is Saturday, Oct. 3, when we’ll also be returning ergs.

👉 Sign up for the workday

More hands = lighter work!

⸻

🌸 LOOKING AHEAD: 2027 ROWING SEASON

A little advance planning now can save some headaches later: the 2027 rowing season runs March 20 through May 29.

Athletes should plan to be fully available throughout the season and avoid making conflicting commitments during that period. We’ll share the detailed calendar and specific dates as they are finalized.

You’ll hear this reminder again as we get closer to spring. For now, we simply want families to have the full season window on their calendars early.

⸻

📣 HELP US GROW WOODSON ROWING

Know someone who might be interested in rowing? Send them our way!

Green Days are a great time for prospective athletes to try crew, meet the team, and see what Woodson Rowing is all about.

Share the word with friends, neighbors, classmates, and anyone who might want to give rowing a try.

⸻

📅 AT-A-GLANCE

Sept. 12 | Boathouse Workday, 9–11 a.m.

Sept. 12 | New Athlete Swim Test, 2–3 p.m.

Sept. 15–Oct. 22 | Green Days, Tues./Wed./Thurs., 4:45–6:45 p.m.

Sept. 22 | Parent Interest Meeting, 7:30–9:00 p.m.

Sept. 28 | Booster Club Golf Tournament

Oct. 3 | Erg Return & Workday

Oct. 10 | TAG Day

Nov. 13 | Craft Show Setup

Nov. 14 | 33rd Annual Craft Show, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

March 20–May 29, 2027 | Spring Rowing Season

Spring Racing

March 20 | Polar Bear Regatta

March 22–26 | Spring Break — plan for daily practice

April 3 | St. Andrew’s Regatta

May 1 | Virginia State Championships, Day 1 — Novice

May 8 | Virginia State Championships, Day 2 — Varsity

May 14–15 | Stotesbury Cup Regatta

I’m May 28–29 | SRAA Nationals

Posted on

Welcome Back! | August 26, 2026

Highlights: New athlete swim tests, Green Days requirements, fall dates, the Booster Golf Tournament and more.

Hello, Woodson Crew!

School is back, and rowing is starting to wake up right along with it. Whether your athlete is returning, brand-new to the team or still thinking about giving rowing a try, welcome to the 2026–27 school year!

🚨 START HERE

  • New athletes: Sign up for a swim test — September 5 or September 12. A Woodson Rowing swim test is required before participating in any on-the-water activity, including Green Days.
  • Planning to attend Green Days? Review the requirements + sign up Make sure your Woodson activity registration, valid VHSL physical and swim test (if required) are complete before you participate.
  • Booster Golf Tournament early-bird pricing ends September 7 — Register Now if you plan to play.

🏊 NEW ATHLETES: SWIM TEST REQUIRED

All athletes new to Woodson Rowing must complete a swim test certified by a Woodson Rowing coach before participating in Green Days or any other on-the-water activity.

Good news: you only have to pass the Woodson Rowing swim test once. Returning athletes who completed it in a prior season do not need to repeat it.

Two dates are available:

  • Saturday, September 5 | 10–11 a.m.
  • Saturday, September 12 | 2–3 p.m.

📍 Audrey Moore Rec Center

👉 Sign up for a swim test: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508094EAAAA2DA64-65392850-woodson#/

Doing this now means one less thing standing between you and the water when Green Days begin. 🚣

🚣 FALL GREEN DAYS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 15

Green Days are our fall opportunity for Woodson coaches to work with athletes outside the regular spring season. Both rowers and coxswains are encouraged to participate.

Dates: Tuesday, September 15–Thursday, October 22
Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
Time: 4:45–6:45 p.m.
Location: Sandy Run Regional Park

Athletes are responsible for their own transportation. Carpooling is highly encouraged.Before participating, every athlete must:

  1. Complete Woodson Activity Registration on Final Forms
  2. Have a valid VHSL physical on file with the Woodson athletic trainers
  3. Complete a Woodson Rowing swim test, if they have not done so previously

👉 Green Days information + sign-up: https://woodsonrowing.org/green-days/

⛳ WOODSON BOOSTER CLUB GOLF TOURNAMENT

The Woodson High School Booster Club Golf Tournament is coming up Monday, September 28 at the Country Club of Fairfax.

Early-bird pricing through September 7:

  • Foursome: $800
  • Individual golfer: $200

The tournament supports Woodson athletic programs across the school, including ours.

👉 Register, sponsor or learn more: https://www.woodsonboosters.org/events

🎨 CRAFT SHOW: HELP US FIND VENDORS NOW

The 33rd Annual Woodson Craft Show is Saturday, November 14, and vendor registration is open now.

Know a local artist, maker, crafter, small business or vendor who might be a good fit? Please send the information their way.

👉 Vendor information + registration: https://woodsonrowing.org/craft-show/

The Craft Show is one of Woodson Rowing’s major fundraisers, and helping us recruit a strong group of vendors is an easy way to support the team now.

Families: save the weekend. Setup will take place Friday, November 13, and we will have volunteer needs for both setup and the Craft Show itself. Sign-ups will come later.

📣 HELP US GROW WOODSON ROWING

Know a student who might make a great rower or coxswain?

Keep spreading the word! No prior rowing experience is required, and sometimes one invitation is all it takes for someone to discover the sport that fits them.

👉 Send interested students and families to https://woodsonrowing.org/ to learn more.

And yes, crew registration and uniform information will be coming later. Registration is currently expected to open around December, so there is nothing families need to do on that front yet.

Welcome back, everyone. We are officially off and rowing for 2026–27. 🚣

🌊 STAY INVOLVED

A few easy ways to stay connected throughout the year:

Know someone who should be getting these updates?
Forward this email and invite them to join the Woodson Rowing newsletter.

📅 AT-A-GLANCE CALENDAR

Tuesday, September 1 | 7:30–9:30 p.m. — First Board Meeting

Saturday, September 5 | 10–11 a.m. — New Athlete Swim Test | Audrey Moore Rec Center

Monday, September 7 — Booster Club Golf Tournament early-bird pricing ends

Saturday, September 12 | 2–3 p.m. — New Athlete Swim Test | Audrey Moore Rec Center

September 15–October 22 | Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, 4:45–6:45 p.m. — Green Days | Sandy Run Regional Park

Monday, September 28 — Woodson Booster Club Golf Tournament | Country Club of Fairfax

Friday, November 13 | Time TBD — Craft Show Setup | Woodson High School

Saturday, November 14 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. — 33rd Annual Craft Show | Woodson High School

Saturday, March 20, 2027 — Polar Bear Regatta | Sandy Run Regional Park

March 22–26, 2027 — Spring Break | Plan for daily rowing practice; final schedule TBD

Saturday, May 1, 2027 — Virginia State Championships, Day 1 | Novice Boats | Sandy Run Regional Park

Saturday, May 8, 2027 — Virginia State Championships, Day 2 | Varsity Boats | Sandy Run Regional Park

May 14–15, 2027 — Stotesbury Cup Regatta | Philadelphia, PA | Select boats

May 28–29, 2027 — SRAA National Championships | Location TBD

Posted on

Erg Deadline, Critical Open Roles for Next Year, & Banquet Info

After a one-week break from rowing, it’s time for our banquet — and planning for next year.

THE THREE THINGS THAT MATTER MOST:

1. CRITICAL BOARD & SUPPORT VACANCIES STILL OPEN FOR NEXT YEAR

We still have several important vacancies to fill, including:

  • Senior VP (works closely with the President to learn the role and help ensure leadership continuity for future seasons)
  • RAFT (Regatta Athlete Food Tent)
  • Launch Boat Support (helps ensure coaches’ gas cans stay filled throughout the season; gas expenses are covered by the team)

These are critical roles that help support the entire team, and assuming one of these positions fulfills all volunteer credits for the season.

Please do not assume you need prior experience. Many current volunteers learned by shadowing others and growing into the role over time.

Interested or curious? Reach out to Tim Schnelle (President) or Jenn McRobbie (VP Communications) to learn more.

2. DEADLINE TODAY (5/28)!

🏋️Summer Erg Rental

👉 Reserve here: https://woodsonrowing.org/erg-rental/

💰Purchase An Erg

👉 Purchase here: https://woodsonrowing.org/buy-an-erg/

3. End-of-Year Banquet on Monday (6/1)

Please attend the End-of-Year Banquet as we celebrate the athletes, recognize this season’s accomplishments, and vote on next year’s Board & Support positions.

👉 RSVP HERE

🤝 BOARD & SUPPORT POSITIONS FOR 2026–2027

The following slate of candidates will be voted on during the Annual Association Meeting on Monday, June 1.

(* indicates NEW to role)

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

  • President: Tim Schnelle
  • Senior VP: VACANT
  • VP Activities: Maz Chinoy
  • VP Comms: Jenn McRobbie
  • Treasurer: Doug Glenn
  • Secretary: Leecie Brown

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

  • Equip & Logistics: Andi Knopp
  • Fundraising: Gloria Totten*
  • Membership: Cindy Tomlinson
  • Service & Volunteering: Kate Janich*
  • Uniforms & Sportswear: Monica Chacon
  • VASRA Rep: Alexis Sutter*
  • Webmaster: Josh Gravholt
  • Woodson Boosters Liaison: Nasser Akhtar* (tentative)

VITAL SUPPORT POSITIONS BY COMMITTEE

Activities

  • Team Dinners: Gloria Totten & (announced on 6/1)*
  • RAFT: VACANT

Communications

  • Social Media: Jenn McRobbie
  • Photographer: Matt Olman

Equipment & Logistics

  • Chuckwagon: Mark Mellott*
  • Launch Boat Support (Gas Cans): VACANT

Fundraising

  • Craft Fair: Karla Fossand*
  • Tag Days: Patrick Obruba & Melissa Fernandez*
  • Restaurant Nights: Michelle Jo

♻️ RECYCLE YOUR UNI OR SPIRIT WEAR

Graduating and won’t be wearing your uni in college? Have Woodson spirit wear your family no longer uses?

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!

🩺 SPORTS PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR

Woodson Athletic Training will again host Sports Physical Night for student athletes needing a VHSL physical for the 2026–2027 school year. This event is the Athletic Training Program’s primary annual fundraiser, with proceeds supporting supplies and student-athlete care.

💲 Cost: $50

👉 Register for Appointment

👉 Current VHSL Form

🌞Summer Rowing Opportunities

This is not an exhaustive list, but here are some local opportunities to continue to build your skills:

These links and more can be found on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/resources/

🤲 RECRUITING

Want to help Woodson Rowing continue to grow?Our best source of recruitment has always been current Woodson families.

It’s never too early to start talking to neighbors, classmates, and friends about everything rowing has to offer.

👉 Interested athletes can sign up here: https://woodsonrowing.org/

💪 STAYING FIT

This section is primarily for athletes — though parents may enjoy the resources too!

Be sure to review the Resources page:

Resources

You’ll find:

• Coach-recommended workout plans  

• Summer and fall rowing opportunities  

• Additional training resources

Questions? Reach out via Slack. We are a team, and we all #PullforWoodson.

📅 CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

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

May 28: Erg rental and purchase forms close

May 29, 5-7p: Window to pick up ergs

May 31, 1-3p: Window to pick up ergs

Jun 1, 7-9p: End-of-year banquet, Cafe B

🗓️Full calendar here

🌊 STAY INVOLVED

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦 X 

💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

The end of a season is not the completion of a destiny.

— Jamie Larbi

Posted on

🛶 4/28/2026 Newsletter

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

What matters this week:

🍴 Friday Night Dinner — parent notice  

📱 Stotesbury info call (4/30)

🔗 QUICK LINKS

👉 Stotesbury Info

👉 Spirit Wear

👉 Volunteer Signup Hub

🍴FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER (5/1)

NOTICE TO PARENTS
Team dinners are provided for athletes each Friday throughout the season. If you plan to bring a homemade item, please message Gloria (Team Dinner Coordinator) on Slack with what you’re bringing and the quantity. This helps us balance the order, accommodate dietary restrictions, and avoid excess food going to waste.

DINNER DETAILS (5/1)
Key info for this Friday’s team dinner:

Athletes:
📍 Cafeteria B immediately after practice ends

🥕 Dinner is for all athletes, not just those racing at VSRC Day 1

🚗 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 from Papa Johns Pizza:

  • Pepperoni and cheese pizza
  • Green salad w/ veggies
  • Dessert: Assorted cookies & fruits snacks

Recorded dietary restrictions have been accommodated.

🚣🏽 STOTESBURY INFO

Stotesbury is the largest high school regatta in the country — planning ahead makes all the difference. General details (including spectator hotel info) can be found here: https://woodsonrowing.org/stotesbury/

Curious about lineups?

Expect those to be released by tomorrow night (4/29). Stotesbury Volunteers are needed!

Many of these roles take place locally in Fairfax before buses depart, so you can still help even if you’re not traveling.

👉 Stotesbury Sign Up Genius

Stotesbury Info Call

Thursday, 4/30  

8:00 PM (after carpools)  

Link to join: posted on Slack

We’ll cover:

• What Stotesbury actually looks like (it’s not a typical regatta)  

• How race progression works (heats → semis → finals)  

• What the athlete day feels like  

• Where to watch + how to navigate the course  

• Key logistics  

If you’re new, this will save you a lot of stress.  

If you’ve been before, it’s a helpful refresher.

Bring your questions — we’ll leave time for Q&A at the end.

🏆  VSRC DAY 1 (5/2)

Thursday’s newsletter will include everything you need to know about the logistics for Day 1 for the Virginia State Rowing Championships.

Due to the number of events, the Virginia Scholastic Rowing Championship (States) is split across two weekends:

SATURDAY, MAY 2:

• WN8+  

• MFr8+  

• M3V  

SATURDAY, MAY 9:

• 1Vs  

• 2Vs  

Athletes and families are encouraged to come out and cheer on the day they are not racing.

🤝 WANT TO HELP NEXT YEAR?

If watching the season has sparked your interest in getting more involved, please reach out to Jenn, VP Communications, via Slack to learn more about the several Board and support positions open for next season.

You do not need prior experience — and you won’t be thrown in alone. 

🙋 CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS

Available opportunities for volunteering:


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.

🎉 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. 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

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦 X 

💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Winning means you’re willing to go longer, work harder, and give more than anyone else.”

— Vince Lombardi

Posted on

Al Urquia Regatta: What You Need to Know (04/25)

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 mild. It may be a longer day with some prelims and finals. Plan accordingly!

What matters most:

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

🎓 Senior Night Logistics (4/24):
Athletes will be released from practice around 6:15 PM. They may go home to change before returning for dinner.

Senior presentations will begin at 7:45 PM.

🔗 KEY LINKS

👉 Regatta Central (schedule & entries)

👉 VASRA (results & updates)

👉 @VASRA_SRRP (follow for real time updates)

👉 Drone coverage (available through Maverick Rowing)

🚣🏽 AL URQUIA REGATTA, 4/25

Woodson will race 7 boats. 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.

💧Hydration & Food Reminder:

There will be no water or Gatorade available at the boathouse this weekend—athletes must bring their own.

The team will provide chocolate milk and RAFT snacks.

🚗 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. Bring your own water.
  • 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

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦 X 

💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

— A. A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh)

Posted on

🛶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

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💭 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)

Posted on

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

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
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🕊️ 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

Posted on

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

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦 X 

💭 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

Posted on

🛶 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

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦 X 

💭 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

Posted on

🛶 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

Recruitment • Sponsors • Spirit Wear • Photos

Follow Us:
📸 Instagram  |  📘 Facebook  |  🐦 X 

💭 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

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

— Steve Fairbairn