“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.”
— Elizabeth Andrews

As life picks up speed and we race toward the holiday season, we want to take a moment to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our volunteers.

Whether you’re a board member, a launch driver, a baker for the Craft Show, or someone who quietly shows up to lend a hand—you make all the difference.

Your time, effort, and energy keep us running, and we truly could not do it without you. Every hour you give matters, and every bit of your work is seen and appreciated.

---

1. REGISTRATION IS OPEN
2. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
3. ARE YOU A NERVOUS NOVICE?
4. WE NEED YOU!
A. *NEW THIS YEAR* SILENT AUCTION
B. EVERYONE IS NEEDED FOR TAG DAY, 10/25
C. 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, 10/31 and 11/1
5. PLEASE SUBMIT FORMS
6. PWCA NEEDS MORE HELP ON SUN 10/5
7. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
8. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING & GREEN DAYS ONGOING
9. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

---

ACTION ITEMS

Parent Learn-To-Row on 10/4 is a go! We need parents/guardians interested to sign up HERE by NOON on 10/3 so we can ensure we have enough support. Those who have signed up, stay tuned for a donation link and waiver form.

---

1. REGISTRATION IS OPEN
Hopefully you received yesterday’s newsletter with all the instructions on registering for the team. If you didn’t, find all you need to know at: woodsonrowing.org/registration.

There are multiple benefits to registering early, not the least of which is spending the money now before the holidays creep up! To encourage early registration, there is a $25 discount applied through December 31, 2025.

2. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
If the cost of registration is getting you down, consider applying for the Occoquan Boat Club (OBC) Julia Shew Memorial Rowing Scholarship. Scholarships up to $1000 are available to eligible athletes. Details can be found here: https://www.rowobc.org/home/scholarships.

3. ARE YOU A NERVOUS NOVICE?
We’ve all been there! If the thought of registration and winter conditioning and the long season is stressing you out, check out the novice tips on our website. These were curated by our current membership chair, Cindy Tomlinson, so reach out to her (or any of us, really!) if you have questions, concerns or need reassurance.

4. WE NEED YOU!
Our rowing program runs on the spirit and energy of our families. Volunteering is how we stay connected, support our athletes, and make the season fun for everyone. Whether you’re driving athletes to and fro, helping at regattas, or pitching in behind the scenes, your presence makes a real difference.

Each family is asked to complete 5 volunteer credits per season (or contribute $200 per unfulfilled credit). But our hope is that you’ll see these hours not as a box to check, but as a chance to laugh, meet other families, and be part of something bigger than the races themselves.

With that spirit in mind, here are our current CRITICAL volunteer needs:

A. *NEW THIS YEAR* SILENT AUCTION
We are hoping to hold a silent auction this season. Based on past experience with silent auctions, this could be a HUGE fundraiser for the team! In order to make this happen, WE NEED YOUR HELP!  We need commitments BY OCTOBER 24. If we get enough volunteers, we can make this happen! Sign up here: Silent Auction Sign Up.  Questions? Please reach out to Alexis Sutter or Bahar Salimova via Slack.

B. EVERYONE IS NEEDED FOR TAG DAY, 10/25
Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. The dates for Tag Days are set in conjunction with all of the teams/clubs at Woodson. For this season, Woodson Rowing has been assigned Saturday, October 25 (we are still working with the administration to secure our second day). Please mark your calendars as we need all hands on deck to make this event work. Sign up here: Tag Day Sign Up. Check out our Tag Days webpage for information.

C. 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, 10/31 and 11/1
Our annual craft show is back for its 32nd year. This is a very big fundraiser for our team and is also a very important event in our community. Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, October 31.We have already secured all of our vendors for this prestigious event, so now it comes down to getting the help we need to pull it off. Please sign up to volunteer HERE. Please reach out to Gail Lee via Slack for info.

FIND THESE AND OTHER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES HERE: https://woodsonrowing.org/volunteering/. Questions about the status of your family’s fulfillment of volunteer requirements should be sent to our Volunteer Coordinator.

5. PLEASE SUBMIT FORMS
Whether you’ve registered or not, we need your help getting all of the paperwork in order before Tag Days and season start. Please visit our website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/physicals-and-required-documents-for-rowers/ to find the three (3) FCPS TRANSPORTATION FORMS needed. Email completed forms to [email protected].

6. PWCA NEEDS MORE HELP ON SUN 10/5
There are still a lot of spots available to be filled! Satisfy a volunteer requirement AND earn some money for our team!!! The Prince William Crew Association (PWCA) is hosting The Occoquan Challenge and the Regatta is still in need of support to ensure it is run efficiently and safely. The Regatta will make a donation, in the volunteer’s name, to the organization of your choice in the amount of $50 – $100, depending on the position filled. Please indicate in the comments that you would like the donation to go to Woodson Rowing. Sign up HERE.

7. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
If you rented an erg to stay fit in the off season, it’s time to return it to the team in preparation for winter conditioning. Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 from 9-10a. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot).

8. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING & GREEN DAYS ONGOING
The coaches are holding early morning lifting sessions at Woodson on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30a. All athletes participating in early morning lift sessions MUST have a valid sports physical on file PRIOR to participation.

Green Days are out of season opportunities for coaches to instruct their student athletes. Sign up to attend on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays after school, from 4:45p-6:45p, at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA). Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. For more information, visit our Green Days FAQ.

First-time athletes (those who have NOT previously been on the water in a Woodson Rowing boat) should try, if possible, to register for their first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

9. 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. Check out and subscribe to our online calendar here: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

OCTOBER

Green Days T, W, Th through Oct 23

Sat, Oct 4: Parent learn to row fundraiser, sign up by Fri, 10/3 at 12p
Sun, Oct 5: Occoquan Chase regatta volunteer opportunities
Sat, 10/18: erg rental return and service work day
Thu, 10/23: final Green Day, 4:45p
Sat, 10/25: 1st Tag Day
Fri, Oct 31: Set up for the craft show, details TBD

NOVEMBER

Sat, 11/1: 32nd Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
Fri, 11/7: Football concessions volunteering
Fri, 11/8: Winterize boats and boat house workday. Details TBD.

DECEMBER

Mon, 12/1: Winter Conditioning Begins
TENTATIVE: Winter break optional weight lifting, details TBD

FEBRUARY 2026

Mon, 02/23: first day of practice; 4:15-6:45p at Woodson Cafeteria B
Tue, 02/24: first day of on-the-water practice, 4:15-6:45p, at Sandy Run

WAIT, THERE’S MORE?

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2026 SEASON IS OPEN!!!

Welcome to a special edition newsletter about ALL THINGS REGISTRATION!! The full newsletter will come out tomorrow, but get your athlete registered to take advantage of our early bird discount and feel free to share this newsletters with others so they can take advantage of our no-obligation green days.

1. HOW DO I GET STARTED?

2. ENSURE YOU COMPLETE ALL THE STEPS!
FIRST STEP: Register and pay for Woodson Rowing.
SECOND STEP: Complete the Woodson High School Activity Registration
THIRD STEP: Complete Required Forms

3. STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

4. TRY ROWING WITH NO OBLIGATION – GREEN DAYS!!

5. JOIN SLACK

6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

1. HOW DO I GET STARTED?
It’s easy! Visit our website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/registration/ for a full walk through of all the steps.

A $25 discounted early bird pricing is in effect until December 31, 2025. Don’t delay to take advantage of this discount.

2. ENSURE YOU COMPLETE ALL THE STEPS!
Registration is a multi-step process. All parts are vital to ensure your athlete’s eligibility to participate in crew. Some items are required for winter conditioning, but ALL are required prior to on-the-water practice. To ensure your athlete is eligible to participate in all aspects of training, please follow the guidance provided below. 

FIRST STEP: Register and pay for Woodson Rowing.

Woodson Rowing website: https://woodsonrowing.org/2026registrationform/.

If you have more than one student-athlete competing for Woodson Rowing this season, please note that you will only be able to register one rower at a time. After registering your first rower, you will be given the opportunity to link back to the homepage to register your second rower. There is a $50 sibling discount added on-top of the early bird discount, so it’s worth it to get them all registered at the same time.

SECOND STEP: Complete the Woodson High School Activity Registration

Woodson Athletics website at: https://students.arbitersports.com/programs/athletics-activities-registration-2025-2026-8

This is a separate registration required for all athletes at Woodson with required concussion training. If your athlete has already participated in another sport at Woodson this year, you may have already completed this step.

THIRD STEP: Complete Required Forms

• VHSL Physical form. The VHSL Physical form is REQUIRED prior to beginning winter conditioning. If this has not already been completed for another sport, please do so as soon as possible! The appropriate form can be found on the Woodson Athletics website. The Rowing team does not keep a separate file or copy of the form. Click here for instructions on how to submit your completed forms.
  
• FCPS Travel Forms: These forms allow students and parents to drive athletes to regattas and other events related to crew. Please fill out one driver form for each possible driver (student, parents, step-parents, etc.). The 3 forms can be found on the Woodson Rowing website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/physicals-and-required-documents-for-rowers/

NEW PROCEDURE ALERT: Emailed/electronic copies of the forms ARE accepted this year. Completed forms should be emailed to the Woodson Rowing Membership Chair, Cindy at: [email protected]

3. STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, you can review the 2025-2026 Fall Parent Information Session presentation and/or contact our membership team at [email protected].

4. TRY ROWING WITH NO OBLIGATION – GREEN DAYS!!
Not sure you’re ready to register but want to know what rowing is all about? Green Days are happening now through October 23! It’s the perfect opportunity to get hooked on rowing with no financial obligation!

Green Days are out of season opportunities for coaches to instruct their student athletes. Sign up to attend on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays after school, from 4:45p-6:45p, at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA). Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. For more information, visit our Green Days FAQ.

First-time athletes (those who have NOT previously been on the water in a Woodson Rowing boat) should try, if possible, to register for their first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

If you are a new athlete and have NOT completed a swim test, don’t fret. We will be planning more. Please send an email to [email protected] so that we know whether we need to hold another swim test during green days. Otherwise, we will hold another test closer to on-the-water practice in February.

Don’t skip Green Days just because you haven’t done your swim test, either. Feel free to show up on Tuesday and talk to the coaches. They may be able to get you in a boat with a life vest so that you can try it out!

5. JOIN SLACK
Slack is a communications tool combining the best elements of text messaging and email. We use Slack for more immediate communications than this newsletter. There are 2 separate Slack spaces: one for coach and athlete communications and a separate space for parent/guardian communications. 

Parent / Guardian Slack: In addition to push notifications for team related information such as weather or other cancellations, Slack creates a space for parents to be able to coordinate carpools, and other team related logistics. If you are a parent or guardian and are not yet on Slack, please send an email to [email protected] with the following information: (1) your name, (2) your email address, and (3) the full name of your athlete. Once your request is processed, you will receive a separate invite link from Slack to join. There is an app you may download on your mobile devices to access Slack or you may log-in using any browser.  

Coach / Athlete Slack: Coaches will ensure that all athletes are added to this Slack space. Athletes not currently on Slack should let coaches know at green days or optional strength training. Please note that you must have a NON-FCPS email to join this space. Parents and guardians do not have direct access to this space. This is your athlete’s responsibility and an opportunity for them to learn to communicate more readily and effectively with their teammates and coaches.

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. Check out and subscribe to our online calendar here: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

Green Days T, W, Th through Oct 23

Sat, Oct 4: Parent learn to row fundraiser
Sun, Oct 5: Occoquan Chase regatta volunteer opportunities
Sat, 10/18: erg rental return and service work day
Thu, 10/23: final Green Day, 4:45p
Sat, 10/25: 1st Tag Day
Fri, Oct 31: Set up for the craft show, details TBD

NOVEMBER

Sat, 11/1: 32nd Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
Fri, 11/7: Football concessions volunteering
Fri, 11/8: Winterize boats and boat house workday. Details TBD.
Sat, 11/15: 2nd Tag Day

DECEMBER

Mon, 12/1: Winter Conditioning Begins
TENTATIVE: Winter break optional weight lifting, details TBD

FEBRUARY 2026
Mon, 02/23: first day of on-the-water practice!

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

As always – a news filled newsletter! Get comfy and catch up on what’s going on with Woodson Rowing. Have extra time on your hands? You can always find the newsletter archives on our website.

1. REGISTRATION OPENS NEXT WEEK!
2. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING & GREEN DAYS ONGOING
3. PARENT INFO SESSION SLIDES
5. *NEW* PARENT LEARN TO ROW, SAT, 10/4
6. UNIQUE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY, SUN 10/5
7. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
8. SIGN UP FOR TAG DAY, SAT 10/25
9. WE NEED HELP FOR THE 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/1
10. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
11. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
12. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

ACTION ITEMS

1. ALL ATHLETES: new and returning, meet on Monday, 9/29, 3p, room B109.
2. PARENTS/GUARDIANS: Sign up for parent learn-to-row event on 10/4 HERE

1. REGISTRATION OPENS NEXT WEEK!
There are a lot of steps that athletes need to take to participate in sports at Woodson. We know. In an attempt to clear up any confusion, here is a short primer. Follow the directions below and you’ll be set up for success. All of the below can be done BEFORE registration with the team opens on October 1, 2025.

A. ALL ATHLETES (new AND returning)
Whether this is your first time doing athletics with Woodson or your 4th year, you must have the following on file BEFORE you’re allowed to participate in any activity with the team:

• A valid sports physical on file with the Woodson athletic trainers. Instructions for filing HERE.
• Fill out the Woodson Athletics registration. Once you create an account and/or log in, scroll down to the bottom of the sports list and locate “FCPS Physical Activities Crew – Crew Boys (spring)” or FCPS Physical Activities Crew – Crew Girls (spring)” and select the appropriate category. Then follow the instructions to fill out the remainder of the form.
• Fill out the THREE (3) forms under the “FCPS Transportation Forms” header on the Woodson Rowing website HERE. Submit those forms to our Membership Chair.

B. NEW TO ROWING: SWIM TEST REQ’D
We have already held 2 swim tests. If you are a new athlete and have NOT completed a swim test, don’t fret. We will be planning more. Please send an email to [email protected] so that we know whether we need to hold another swim test during green days. Otherwise, we will hold another test closer to on-the-water practice in February.

Don’t skip Green Days just because you haven’t done your swim test, either. Feel free to show up on Tuesday and talk to the coaches. They may be able to get you in a boat with a life vest so that you can try it out!

2. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING & GREEN DAYS ONGOING
The coaches are holding early morning lifting sessions at Woodson on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30a. All athletes participating in early morning lift sessions MUST have a valid sports physical on file PRIOR to participation.

Green Days are out of season opportunities for coaches to instruct their student athletes. Sign up to attend on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays after school, from 4:45p-6:45p, at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA). Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. For more information, visit our Green Days FAQ.

First-time athletes (those who have NOT previously been on the water in a Woodson Rowing boat) should try, if possible, to register for their first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

3. PARENT INFO SESSION SLIDES
We had a productive information session for returning and new parents and athletes last week. If you could not attend or want to look over the materials at your own pace, check out the slide deck here.

4. NEXT ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, MON 9/29
Coach Bryan Tylander held an information session for new athletes at Woodson on  9/10 after school. If you’re a prospective athlete and you missed it, NO WORRIES! Track down Coach in his classroom (B109) or come to the NEXT meeting on Monday, September 29 in room B109.

5. *NEW* PARENT LEARN TO ROW, SAT, 10/4
We would like to gauge interest in a Parent Learn to Row session on Saturday, 10/4. If there are enough willing to participate, we will ask for a $50 donation to the team to participate. Last year’s event was a lot of fun (and humbling for the parents involved)! Coaches will teach willing parents/guardians the techniques. There will be 6 adults and 2 athletes per boat so you won’t be going it alone. SIGN UP HERE.

6. UNIQUE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY, SUN 10/5
The Prince William Crew Association (PWCA) is hosting The Occoquan Challenge and the Regatta is still in need of support to ensure it is run efficiently and safely. The Regatta will make a donation, in the volunteer’s name, to the organization of your choice in the amount of $50 – $100, depending on the position filled. Please indicate in the comments if you would like the donation to go to Woodson Rowing or the PWCA Scholarship Fund. Sign up HERE.

7. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 from 9-10a. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot). We also need volunteers to help service our fleet of ergs, so sign up to help here: Erg Workday.

8. SIGN UP FOR TAG DAY, SAT 10/25
Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. The dates for Tag Days are set in conjunction with all of the teams/clubs at Woodson. For this season, Woodson Rowing has been assigned Saturday, October 25 (we are still working with the administration to secure our second day). Please mark your calendars as we need all hands on deck to make this event work. Sign up here: Tag Day Sign Up. Check out our Tag Days webpage for information.

9. WE NEED HELP FOR THE 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/1
Our annual craft show is back for its 32nd year. This is a very big fundraiser for our team and is also a very important event in our community. Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, October 31 and we will need all hands on deck to make it a success! We have already secured all of our vendors for this prestigious event, so now it comes down to getting the help we need to pull it off. Please sign up to volunteer HERE.

ALSO, as noted below, we are actively seeking someone to shadow our current craft show coordinator, Gail Lee, because her athlete will be graduating this year. This position directly supports our fundraising efforts and has been a major part of our team’s community representation for decades. Please reach out to Gail via Slack for info.

10. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Part and parcel of being on Woodson Rowing means volunteering. Throughout the year/season there will be ample opportunities to get involved and to earn volunteer credits for your family, at a pace and time that is most convenient for you. Athletes that volunteer will, more often than not, be able to get service credits for any time they spend volunteering. The team tracks participation by assigning “credits” each time a family or athlete volunteers. One shift (regardless of the duration of the shift) = one credit.

Each family is required to do 5 volunteer shifts/credits (e.g., a Fri night dinner, boathouse workday, football concessions, tag day, craft fair, etc.), at least one of which should be a VASRA task (e.g. one of the jobs at the regattas or one of the VASRA workdays).

Athletes are also expected to volunteer as their schedule and studies allow.

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 our Volunteer Coordinator.

VOLUNTEER NOW BY CHECKING OUT OPPORTUNITIES HERE: https://woodsonrowing.org/volunteering/

11. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
If you’re already thinking about the financial output that comes with participating in a high school sport, consider applying for the Occoquan Boat Club (OBC) Julia Shew Memorial Rowing Scholarship. Scholarships up to $1000 are available to eligible athletes. Details can be found here: https://www.rowobc.org/home/scholarships.

12. 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. Check out and subscribe to our online calendar here: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

SEPTEMBER:
Green Days T, W, Th through Oct 23
Mon, 9/29: returning student interest meeting, 3p, Woodson, Rm B109
Tue, 9/30: Board meeting via Zoom, contact President for more info

OCTOBER
Sat, Oct 4: TENTATIVE Parent learn to row fundraiser
Sun, Oct 5: Occoquan Chase regatta volunteer opportunities
Sat, 10/18: erg rental return and service work day
Thu, 10/23: final Green Day, 4:45p
Sat, 10/25: 1st Tag Day
Fri, Oct 31: Set up for the craft show, details TBD

NOVEMBER
Sat, 11/1: 32nd Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
Fri, 11/7: Football concessions volunteering
Fri, 11/8: Winterize boats and boat house workday. Details TBD.
Sat, 11/15: 2nd Tag Day

DECEMBER
Mon, 12/1: Winter Conditioning Begins
TENTATIVE: Winter break optional weight lifting, details TBD

FEBRUARY 2026
Mon, 02/23: first day of on-the-water practice!

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

Thanks to those of you that attended the parent interest meeting yesterday. If there is interest in having another meeting (since sometimes its just easier to talk things out in person), please contact us at [email protected] or reach out on Slack!

Curious or have time on your hands? You can always find the newsletter archives on our website.

1. TONIGHT! THERE’S STILL TIME! NOODLES & CO, 4-8PM
2. REGISTRATION OPENS 10/1 – GET FORMS DONE NOW!
A. ALL ATHLETES (new AND returning)
B. NEW TO ROWING ATHLETES: SWIM TEST REQ’D
3. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING TIME CHANGE
4. GREEN DAYS ONGOING
5. PARENT INFO SESSION SLIDES
6. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER GOLF TOURNAMENT, MON 9/22
7. NEXT ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, MON 9/29
8. UNIQUE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY, SUN 10/5
9. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
10. SIGN UP FOR TAG DAY, SAT 10/25
11. WE NEED HELP FOR THE 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/1
12. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
13. BOARD AND CHAIRPERSON POSITIONS AVAILABLE
A. BOARD SECRETARY
B. CRAFT SHOW CHAIR
14. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
15. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

ACTION ITEMS

1. NEW ATHLETES: Swim test on Saturday. Sign up and more info: HERE
2. ALL ATHLETES: let the coaches know you’re coming by signing for Green Days
3. PARENTS & ATHLETES: Review volunteer opportunities and sign up now! https://woodsonrowing.org/volunteering/
   

1. TONIGHT! THERE’S STILL TIME! NOODLES & CO, 4-8PM
What’s for dinner?! Set up your order online as you’re coming home from Green Days (or just stop by on your way back home). No need to plan, shop or cook! Visit or order from Noodles & Company, 10296 Main Street between 4-8p. Benefit the team with your purchase AND be your family’s hero. Valid for pickup and in-restaurant. Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.

2. REGISTRATION OPENS 10/1 – GET FORMS DONE NOW!
There are a lot of steps that athletes need to take to participate in sports at Woodson. We know. In an attempt to clear up any confusion, here is a short primer. Follow the directions below and you’ll be set up for success. All of the below can be done BEFORE registration with the team, which will open October 1, 2025.

A. ALL ATHLETES (new AND returning)
Whether this is your first time doing athletics with Woodson or your 4th year, you must have the following on file BEFORE you’re allowed to participate in any activity with the team:

• A valid sports physical on file with the Woodson athletic trainers. Instructions for filing HERE.
• Fill out the Woodson Athletics registration. Once you create an account and/or log in, scroll down to the bottom of the sports list and locate “FCPS Physical Activities Crew – Crew Boys (spring)” or FCPS Physical Activities Crew – Crew Girls (spring)” and select the appropriate category. Then follow the instructions to fill out the remainder of the form.
• Fill out the THREE (3) forms under the “FCPS Transportation Forms” header on the Woodson Rowing website HERE. Submit those forms to our Membership Chair.

B. NEW TO ROWING: SWIM TEST REQ’D
Whether you have participated in another sport at Woodson or not, rowing athletes MUST complete a swim test certified by a Woodson Rowing Coach. Passage of this test is required only once so if you have completed a swim test in prior seasons, you don’t need to do it again. Doing this test earlier rather than later allows athletes to spend the most time possible on-the-water with the team.

The next swim test will be held at Providence Rec Center, 7525 Marc Drive, Falls Church, VA on Saturday, 9/20 from 1-2p. Please sign up here: Fall Swim Test.

If you are NOT able to attend this swim test, please send an email to [email protected] so that we know whether we need to hold another swim test during green days. Otherwise, we will hold another test closer to on-the-water practice in February.

3. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING TIME CHANGE
The coaches are holding early morning lifting sessions at Woodson on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30a. This is a 15 minute later start time. All athletes participating in early morning lift sessions MUST have a valid sports physical on file PRIOR to participation.

4. GREEN DAYS ONGOING
Green Days are out of season opportunities for coaches to instruct their student athletes. Rowers and Coxswains are encouraged to attend as many Green Days as possible. This is true especially if you are new to rowing because it is a sport unlike any other. For more information, visit our Green Days FAQ.

Green days began this week and we’ve already had boats out on the water! Sign up to attend on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays after school, from 4:45p-6:45p, at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA). Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended.

First-time athletes (those who have NOT previously been on the water in a Woodson Rowing boat) should try, if possible, to register for their first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

BEFORE participating, all athletes MUST (without exception) have:

• A valid VHSL physical, on file with the Woodson Athletic trainers. 
• Completed a swim test, AND
• Submitted the Woodson Activity Registration.

In addition, if your athlete will be traveling with another adult or student to the water, you will need to submit the forms located on our website to our Membership Chair.

5. PARENT INFO SESSION SLIDES
We had a productive information session for returning and new parents and athletes on Wednesday. If you could not attend or want to look over the materials at your own pace, check out the slide deck here.

6. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER GOLF TOURNAMENT, MON 9/22
The Booster Board is looking for golfers to play in its fundraising golf tournament on 9/22 at the Country Club of Fairfax. If this is your jam, please sign up here: Tournament Sign Up. More info here: Woodson Athletic Booster Golf Tournament.

7. NEXT ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, MON 9/29
Coach Bryan Tylander held an information session for new athletes at Woodson on  9/10 after school. If you’re a prospective athlete and you missed it, NO WORRIES! Track down Coach in his classroom (B109) or come to the NEXT meeting on Monday, September 29 in room B109.

8. UNIQUE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY, SUN 10/5
The Prince William Crew Association (PWCA) is hosting The Occoquan Challenge and the Regatta is still in need of support to ensure it is run efficiently and safely. The Regatta will make a donation, in the volunteer’s name, to the organization of your choice in the amount of $50 – $100, depending on the position filled. Please indicate in the comments if you would like the donation to go to Woodson Rowing or the PWCA Scholarship Fund. Sign up HERE.

9. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 from 9-10a. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot). We also need volunteers to help service our fleet of ergs, so sign up to help here: Erg Workday.

10. SIGN UP FOR TAG DAY, SAT 10/25
Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. The dates for Tag Days are set in conjunction with all of the teams/clubs at Woodson. For this season, Woodson Rowing has been assigned Saturday, October 25 (we are still working with the administration to secure our second day). Please mark your calendars as we need all hands on deck to make this event work. Sign up here: Tag Day Sign Up. Check out our Tag Days webpage for information.

11. WE NEED HELP FOR THE 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/1
Our annual craft show is back for its 32nd year. This is a very big fundraiser for our team and is also a very important event in our community. Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, October 31 and we will need all hands on deck to make it a success! We have already secured all of our vendors for this prestigious event, so now it comes down to getting the help we need to pull it off. Please sign up to volunteer HERE.

ALSO, as noted below, we are actively seeking someone to shadow our current craft show coordinator, Gail Lee, because her athlete will be graduating this year. This position directly supports our fundraising efforts and has been a major part of our team’s community representation for decades. Please reach out to Gail via Slack for info.

12. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Part and parcel of being on Woodson Rowing means volunteering. Throughout the year/season there will be ample opportunities to get involved and to earn volunteer credits for your family, at a pace and time that is most convenient for you. Athletes that volunteer will, more often than not, be able to get service credits for any time they spend volunteering. The team tracks participation by assigning “credits” each time a family or athlete volunteers. One shift (regardless of the duration of the shift) = one credit.

Each family is required to do 5 volunteer shifts/credits (e.g., a Fri night dinner, boathouse workday, football concessions, tag day, craft fair, etc.), at least one of which should be a VASRA task (e.g. one of the jobs at the regattas or one of the VASRA workdays).

Athletes are also expected to volunteer as their schedule and studies allow.

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 our Volunteer Coordinator.

VOLUNTEER NOW BY CHECKING OUT OPPORTUNITIES HERE: https://woodsonrowing.org/volunteering/

13. BOARD AND CHAIRPERSON POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Serving on the Board of Directors for the Woodson Rowing team is fulfilling. Our all volunteer board and chairpersons are critical for the success of our team! Volunteering for a board position means all of your volunteer credits are covered for the season AND you’ll play a vital role in the smooth operation of the team.

We are currently looking for people to fill TWO (2) CRITICAL ROLES:

A. BOARD SECRETARY
The Woodson Rowing Board Secretary position is now vacant because Andi Knopp, our former Secretary, will be taking on a different role with the Board! As a result, the Board is looking for someone to take on this critical position. This position entails finalizing agendas for monthly board meetings; recording, preparing, and distributing meeting minutes; and maintaining a file of all meeting minutes. The Secretary is a voting member of the Executive Committee and also coordinates the Annual End-of-Year Party/Meeting. If you are interested or have questions about the position, please contact Tim Schnelle or Andi Knopp via Slack or email.

B. CRAFT SHOW CHAIR
We are seeking someone to shadow Gail Lee for our MAJOR FUNDRAISER, the Woodson Craft Show. Unfortunately, Gail’s athlete will be graduating this year so we are looking for a new Craft Show Chair. This position directly supports our fundraising efforts and has been a major part of our team’s community representation for decades. Please reach out to Gail via Slack for info.

14. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
If you’re already thinking about the financial output that comes with participating in a high school sport, consider applying for the Occoquan Boat Club (OBC) Julia Shew Memorial Rowing Scholarship. Scholarships up to $1000 are available to eligible athletes. Details can be found here: https://www.rowobc.org/home/scholarships.

15. 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. Check out and subscribe to our online calendar here: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

SEPTEMBER:
Green Days T, W, Th through Oct 23
Thu, 9/18: Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
Sat, 9/20: new athlete swim test, Providence Rec Center, 1-2p
Sat, 9/20: VASRA Workday #3
Mon, 9/22: Booster Club Golf Tournament
Sat, 9/27: VASRA Workday #4
Mon, 9/29: returning student interest meeting, 3p, Woodson, Rm B109
Tue, 9/30: Board meeting via Zoom, contact President for more info

OCTOBER
Sat, Oct 4: TENTATIVE Parent learn to row fundraiser
Sat, Oct 4: VASRA Workday #5
Sat, 10/18: erg rental return and service work day
Thu, 10/23: final Green Day, 4:45p
Sat, 10/25: 1st Tag Day
Fri, Oct 31: Set up for the craft show, details TBD

NOVEMBER
Sat, 11/1: 32nd Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
Fri, 11/7: Football concessions volunteering
Fri, 11/8: Winterize boats and boat house workday. Details TBD.
Sat, 11/15: 2nd Tag Day

DECEMBER
Mon, 12/1: Winter Conditioning Begins
TENTATIVE: Winter break optional weight lifting, details TBD

FEBRUARY 2026
Mon, 02/23: first day of on-the-water practice!

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

We’ve had our first interest meeting and are rolling straight into the first swim test of new athletes this Friday. It can feel like drinking from a fire hose when you first start getting these newsletters – but it is worth the read to stay up-to-date. Please reach out if you have questions.

Curious or have time on your hands? You can always find the newsletter archives on our website.

1. FORMS, REQUIREMENTS AND MORE FORMS!!
A. ALL ATHLETES (new AND returning):
B. NEW TO ROWING ATHLETES: SWIM TEST REQ’D
2. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING
3. GREEN DAYS BEGIN, TUE 9/16
4. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED 9/17
5. RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER, NOODLES & CO, THU, 9/18
6. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER GOLF TOURNAMENT, MON 9/22
7. NEXT ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, MON 9/29
8. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
9. SIGN UP FOR TAG DAY, SAT 10/25
10. 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/1
11. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
12. BOARD AND CHAIRPERSON POSITIONS AVAILABLE
A. BOARD SECRETARY
B. CRAFT SHOW CHAIR
13. SCHOLARSHIP FUND
14. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

ACTION ITEMS

1. NEW ATHLETES: First swim test on Friday. Sign up and more info: HERE
2. ALL ATHLETES: let the coaches know you’re coming by signing for Green Days
3. PARENTS & ATHLETES: Review volunteer opportunities and sign up now! https://woodsonrowing.org/volunteering/
   

1. FORMS, REQUIREMENTS AND MORE FORMS!!
There are a lot of steps that athletes need to take to participate in sports at Woodson. We know. In an attempt to clear up any confusion, here is a short primer. Follow the directions below and you’ll be set up for success:

A. ALL ATHLETES (new AND returning):
Whether this is your first time doing athletics with Woodson or your 4th year, you must have the following on file BEFORE you’re allowed to participate in any activity with the team:

• A valid sports physical on file with the Woodson athletic trainers. Instructions for filing HERE.
• Fill out the Woodson Athletics registration. Once you create an account and/or log in, scroll down to the bottom of the sports list and locate “FCPS Physical Activities Crew – Crew Boys (spring)” or FCPS Physical Activities Crew – Crew Girls (spring)” and select the appropriate category. Then follow the instructions to fill out the remainder of the form.
• Fill out the THREE (3) forms under the “FCPS Transportation Forms” header on the Woodson Rowing website HERE. Submit those forms to our Membership Chair.

B. NEW TO ROWING ATHLETES: SWIM TEST REQ’D
Whether you have participated in another sport at Woodson or not, rowing athletes MUST complete a swim test certified by a Woodson Rowing Coach prior to participating in green days and on-the-water practices. Passage of this test is required only once so if you have completed a swim test in prior seasons, you don’t need to do it again. Doing this test earlier rather than later allows athletes to spend the most time possible on-the-water with the team.

2. EARLY MORNING WEIGHT LIFTING
The coaches are holding early morning lifting sessions at Woodson on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:15-7:30a. All athletes participating in early morning lift sessions MUST have a valid sports physical on file PRIOR to participation.

3. GREEN DAYS BEGIN, TUE 9/16
Green Days are out of season opportunities for coaches to instruct their student athletes. Rowers and Coxswains are encouraged to attend as many Green Days as possible. This is true especially if you are new to rowing because it is a sport unlike any other. For more information, visit our Green Days FAQ.

BEFORE participating, all athletes MUST (without exception) have:

• A valid VHSL physical, on file with the Woodson Athletic trainers. 
• Completed a swim test, AND
• Submitted the Woodson Activity Registration.

In addition, if your athlete will be traveling with another adult or student to the water, you will need to submit the forms located on our website to our Membership Chair.

First-time athletes (those who have NOT previously been on the water in a Woodson Rowing boat) should try, if possible, to register for their first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

4. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED 9/17
The Board will be holding an information session for returning and new parents and athletes on Wednesday, 9/17. We’ll walk through the plan for the upcoming season, go over dues, transportation, winter conditioning, uniforms and preview what happens on the water in the spring. Bring anyone who is interested in learning more about our sport. The meeting will be held at 7:30p in Woodson Cafe A.

5. RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER, NOODLES & CO, THU, 9/18
Mark Thursday, 9/18 as your easy dinner night! Set up your order online as you’re coming home from Green Days (or just stop by the restaurant). No need to plan, shop or cook!

6. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER GOLF TOURNAMENT, MON 9/22

7. NEXT ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, MON 9/29

8. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/18
Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 from 9-10a. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot). We also need volunteers to help service our fleet of ergs, so sign up to help here: Erg Workday.

9. SIGN UP FOR TAG DAY, SAT 10/25
Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. The dates for Tag Days are set in conjunction with all of the teams/clubs at Woodson. For this season, Woodson Rowing has been assigned Saturday, October 25 (we are still working with the administration to secure our second day). Please mark your calendars as we need all hands on deck to make this event work. Sign up here: Tag Day Sign Up. Check out our Tag Days webpage for information.

10. 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/1
Our annual craft show is back for its 32nd year. This is a very big fundraiser for our team and is also a very important event in our community.

ALSO, as noted below, we are actively seeking someone to shadow our current craft show coordinator, Gail Lee, because her athlete will be graduating this year. This position directly supports our fundraising efforts and has been a major part of our team’s community representation for decades. Please reach out to Gail via Slack for info.

11. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Part and parcel of being on Woodson Rowing means volunteering. Throughout the year/season there will be ample opportunities to get involved and to earn volunteer credits for your family, at a pace and time that is most convenient for you. Athletes that volunteer will, more often than not, be able to get service credits for any time they spend volunteering. The team tracks participation by assigning “credits” each time a family or athlete volunteers. One shift (regardless of the duration of the shift) = one credit.

Each family is required to do 5 volunteer shifts/credits (e.g., a Fri night dinner, boathouse workday, football concessions, tag day, craft fair, etc.), at least one of which should be a VASRA task (e.g. one of the jobs at the regattas or one of the VASRA workdays).

Athletes are also expected to volunteer as their schedule and studies allow.

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 our Volunteer Coordinator.

VOLUNTEER NOW BY CHECKING OUT OPPORTUNITIES HERE: https://woodsonrowing.org/volunteering/

12. BOARD AND CHAIRPERSON POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Serving on the Board of Directors for the Woodson Rowing team is fulfilling. Our all volunteer board and chairpersons are critical for the success of our team! Volunteering for a board position means all of your volunteer credits are covered for the season AND you’ll play a vital role in the smooth operation of the team.

We are currently looking for people to fill TWO (2) CRITICAL ROLES:

A. BOARD SECRETARY
The Woodson Rowing Board Secretary position is now vacant because Andi Knopp, our former Secretary, will be taking on a different role with the Board! As a result, the Board is looking for someone to take on this critical position. This position entails finalizing agendas for monthly board meetings; recording, preparing, and distributing meeting minutes; and maintaining a file of all meeting minutes. The Secretary is a voting member of the Executive Committee and also coordinates the Annual End-of-Year Party/Meeting. If you are interested or have questions about the position, please contact Tim Schnelle or Andi Knopp via Slack or email.

B. CRAFT SHOW CHAIR
We are seeking someone to shadow Gail Lee for our MAJOR FUNDRAISER, the Woodson Craft Show. Unfortunately, Gail’s athlete will be graduating this year so we are looking for a new Craft Show Chair. This position directly supports our fundraising efforts and has been a major part of our team’s community representation for decades. Please reach out to Gail via Slack for info.

13. SCHOLARSHIP FUND

14. 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/

SEPTEMBER:
Fri, 9/12: new athlete swim test, Providence Rec Center, 6-7p
Sat, 9/13: VASRA Workday #2
Tue, 9/16: Green Days begin (T, W, Th through Oct 23)
Wed, 9/17: parent info meeting, 7:30p, Woodson Cafe A
Thu, 9/18: Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
Sat, 9/20: new athlete swim test, Providence Rec Center, 1-2p
Sat, 9/20: VASRA Workday #3
Mon, 9/22: Booster Club Golf Tournament
Sat, 9/27: VASRA Workday #4
Mon, 9/29: returning student interest meeting, 3p, Woodson, Rm B109
Tue, 9/30: Board meeting via Zoom, contact President for more info

OCTOBER
Sat, Oct 4: TENTATIVE Parent learn to row fundraiser
Sat, Oct 4: VASRA Workday #5
Sat, 10/18: erg rental return and service work day
Thu, 10/23: final Green Day, 4:45p
Sat, 10/25: 1st Tag Day
Fri, Oct 31: Set up for the craft show, details TBD

NOVEMBER
Sat, 11/1: 32nd Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
Fri, 11/7: Football concessions volunteering
Fri, 11/8: Winterize boats and boat house workday. Details TBD.
Sat, 11/15: 2nd Tag Day

DECEMBER
Mon, 12/1: Winter Conditioning Begins
TENTATIVE: Winter break optional weight lifting, details TBD

FEBRUARY 2026
Mon, 02/23: first day of on-the-water practice!

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

WELCOME TO WOODSON ROWING!

We hope you had a wonderful summer and are enjoying your day off from classes. While rowing is a spring sport, things are already moving at full speed behind the scenes to bring new and returning athletes together and to grow our team. There is lots of information here so buckle up for the ride!

Curious or have time on your hands? You can always find the newsletter archives on our website.

1. SPREAD THE WORD
2. SPORTS PHYSICALS, REGISTRATION AND OTHER FORMS
3. ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSIONS
4. SWIM TEST (FOR NEW RECRUITS ONLY)
5. GREEN DAYS BEGIN TUE, 9/16
6. RENTAL ERG RETURN SAT, OCT 18
7. OCTOBER 25 IS OUR FIRST TAG DAY!
8. MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW

9. CURRENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
A. SEEKING A BOARD SECRETARY
B. WOODSON BOATHOUSE WORKDAY, SAT 9/6
C. VASRA CLEAN-UP DAYS
D. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS, FRI 11/7

10. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION TBD
11. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER GOLF TOURNAMENT, MON 9/22
12. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
13. STAY IN-THE-KNOW

ACTION ITEMS

1. ATHLETES: Plan to attend the following info sessions at 3:00p in Coach Tylander’s classroom, B109:
– NEW athletes: Wed, Sep 10
– RETURNING and/or NEW athletes: Mon, Sep 29

2. Review volunteering opportunities and start signing up now!

---

1. SPREAD THE WORD
Recruitment should be at the top of our minds and in full swing! Please share your enthusiasm for our team. Speak to other students and parents; encourage them to check us out. Direct interested athletes and their parents to our woodsonrowing.org or have them send an email to our Membership Chair!

2. SPORTS PHYSICALS, REGISTRATION AND OTHER FORMS
All athletes (new or returning) will need a valid sports physical turned into the Woodson front office before the season begins. Also the Woodson Athletics registration needs to be completed for all athletes. Don’t delay with these critical pieces of information. Take care of it now!

If you’re an overachiever, you can also fill out and submit the forms located on our website to our Membership Chair. Get organized now and simply enjoy watching your athlete in the spring!

3. ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSIONS
NEW ATHLETES: Interested in learning more about rowing? Meet Coach Tylander, our Director of Rowing, after school on Wednesday, September 10, Room B109. Coach Tylander will talk a little bit about the requirements for rowing, green days, and more!

RETURNING and/or NEW ATHLETES: Meet with Coach Tylander after school (approx 3p) on Monday, September 29 in room B109. He’ll give you a brief rundown of what to expect for the season. Have a friend that’s interested in learning more about rowing at Woodson? Bring them!

4. SWIM TEST (FOR NEW RECRUITS ONLY)

Swim Tests will be held at Providence Rec Center, 7525 Marc Drive, Falls Church, VA on Friday, 9/12 from 6-7p or Saturday, 9/20 from 1-2p. Please sign up here: Fall Swim Test

5. GREEN DAYS BEGIN TUE, 9/16

BEFORE participating, all athletes MUST (without exception) have:

• A valid VHSL physical, on file with the Woodson Athletic trainers. 
• Completed a swim test, AND
• Submitted the Woodson Activity Registration.

In addition, if your athlete will be traveling with another adult or student to the water, you will need to submit the forms located on our website to our Membership Chair.

First-time athletes (those who have NOT previously been on the water in a Woodson Rowing boat) should try, if possible, to register for their first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

6. RENTAL ERG RETURN SAT, OCT 18
Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 from 9-10a. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot). We also need volunteers to help service our fleet of ergs, so sign up to help here: Erg Workday.

7. OCTOBER 25 IS OUR FIRST TAG DAY!
Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. The dates for Tag Days are set in conjunction with all of the teams/clubs at Woodson. For this season, Woodson Rowing has been assigned Saturday, October 25 and Saturday, November 15. Please mark your calendars as we need all hands on deck to make this event work. Sign up here: Tag Day Sign Up. Check out our Tag Days webpage for information.

8. MARK YOU CALENDAR FOR THE 32nd ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW

Our annual craft show is back for its 32nd year. This is a very big fundraiser for our team and is also a very important event in our community. Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, October 31 and we will need all hands on deck to make it a success! Planning has already begun and a signup genius for volunteers will come out soon.

Please also contact any artisans/crafters/makers in your life and let them know you’d love to see their wares on site at Woodson. All Vendors can sign up here: 2025 Craft Show Vendor Registration.

9. CURRENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Part and parcel of being on Woodson Rowing means volunteering. Throughout the year/season there will be ample opportunities to get involved and to earn volunteer credits for your family, at a pace and time that is most convenient for you. Athletes that volunteer will, more often than not, be able to get service credits for any time they spend volunteering. You can always review current volunteering opportunities and review requirements on our website!

A. SEEKING A BOARD SECRETARY
The Woodson Rowing Board Secretary position is now vacant because Andi Knopp, our former Secretary, will be taking on a different role with the Board! As a result, the Board is looking for someone to take on this critical position. This position entails finalizing agendas for monthly board meetings; recording, preparing, and distributing meeting minutes; and maintaining a file of all meeting minutes. The Secretary is a voting member of the Executive Committee and also coordinates the Annual End-of-Year Party/Meeting. Volunteering for this critical job means all of your volunteer credits are covered for the season AND you’ll play a vital role in the smooth operation of the Board! If you are interested or have questions about the position, please contact Tim Schnelle or Andi Knopp via Slack or email.

B. WOODSON BOATHOUSE WORKDAY, SAT 9/6
Mark your calendars for next Saturday morning, 9/6. We could use some help at the boathouse getting the launches in the water and ready for upcoming Green Days.  Parents and athletes are welcome.  Sign up here: Boathouse Workday.

C. VASRA CLEAN-UP DAYS
VASRA has scheduled the Fall clean up days for the next 5 Saturdays! Each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day; e.g. 5 or more Woodson volunteers total. The current dates are: September 6, 13, 20, 27 and October 4. When you sign up, please indicate your affiliation with Woodson: VASRA Workdays Sign Up.

D. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS, FRI 11/7
Each season, Woodson Rowing is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. There will be two shifts to volunteer – 6:15-8:00 and 8:00-9:45 PM. We need 9 volunteers for each shift. This is a fun opportunity to get some volunteer credits early AND get to watch the game. Sign up here: Football Concessions Sign Up.

10. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED, 9/17
The Board will be holding an information session for returning and new parents and athletes on Wednesday, 9/17. We’ll walk through the plan for the upcoming season, go over dues, transportation, winter conditioning, uniforms and preview what happens on the water in the spring. Bring anyone who is interested in learning more about our sport. The meeting will be at 7:30p with location TBD.

11. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER GOLF TOURNAMENT, MON 9/22
The Booster Board is looking for golfers to play in its fundraising golf tournament on 9/22 at the Country Club of Fairfax. If this is your jam, please sign up here: Tournament Sign Up. More info here: Woodson Athletic Booster Golf Tournament.

12. 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/

SEPTEMBER:
Sat, 9/6: Woodson Boathouse Workday, Sandy Run
Sat, 9/6: VASRA Workday #1
Wed, 9/10: new rower interest meeting, 3p, Woodson, Rm B109
Fri, 9/12: new athlete swim test, Providence Rec Center, 6-7p
Sat, 9/13: VASRA Workday #2
Tue, 9/16: Green Days begin (T, W, Th through Oct 23)
Wed, 9/17: parent info meeting, 7:30p, Details TBD
Sat, 9/20: new athlete swim test, Providence Rec Center, 1-2p
Sat, 9/20: VASRA Workday #3
Mon, 9/22: Booster Club Golf Tournament
Sat, 9/27: VASRA Workday #4
Mon, 9/29: returning student interest meeting, 3p, Woodson, Rm B109
Tue, 9/30: Board meeting via Zoom, contact President for more info

OCTOBER:
Sat, Oct 4: TENTATIVE Parent learn to row fundraiser
Sat, Oct 4: VASRA Workday #5
Sat, 10/18: erg rental return and service work day
Thu, 10/23: final Green Day, 4:45p
Sat, 10/25: 1st Tag Day
Fri, Oct 31: Set up for the craft show, details TBD

NOVEMBER:
Sat, 11/1: 32nd Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
Fri, 11/7: Football concessions volunteering
Fri, 11/8: Winterize boats and boat house workday. Details TBD.
Sat, 11/15: 2nd Tag Day

DECEMBER:
Mon, 12/1: Winter Conditioning Begins
TENTATIVE: Winter break optional weight lifting, details TBD

FEBRUARY 2026:
Mon, 02/23: first day of on-the-water practice!

14. STAY IN-THE-KNOW

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

Last newsletter of the year! We are so proud of ALL of our athletes and their families for sticking with the grind all season. As we turn our focus to the summer – don’t forget to keep up on the fitness you’ve gained all season! And athletes – maybe it’s even time to introduce your parents to the “joys” of the erg. 

1. FINAL BOATHOUSE WORKDAY THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 7
2. DESPERATELY SEEKING CRAFT SHOW VOLUNTEER!
3. CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS
4. TAKE CARE OF NEXT YEAR’S SCHOOL PHYSICAL NOW!
5. RECRUITING
6. STAYING FIT
7. KEEP UP-TO-DATE IN THE OFF-SEASON!

---

1. FINAL BOATHOUSE WORKDAY THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 7
CRITICAL NEED FOR THIS WEEKEND: Many hands make light work! Get in those final volunteering hours to avoid being charged for unperformed credit. Sign up here:  End of Season Boathouse Workday.

2. DESPERATELY SEEKING CRAFT SHOW VOLUNTEER!
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. We have already begun plans and registration for vendors will open on July 1. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from someone who has been in this role for some time. Her daughter is graduating in 2026 so she will not be remaining in this role next year. Please reach out to Gail for info on how to fulfill your volunteer requirements before the next season even begins! 

3. CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS
All nominees to the board were approved at our year-end meeting on May 28, 2025. You can stay abreast of who is on the Board on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/board-of-directors/

We want to offer a sincere and heartfelt THANK YOU to our outgoing Board Members. We, honestly, could not have done it without you. For our incoming members – WELCOME! You should be in touch with your counterpart to discuss transitioning responsibilities

4. TAKE CARE OF NEXT YEAR’S SCHOOL PHYSICAL NOW!
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.

5. RECRUITING
Last week there was an Activities Fair at Woodson designed for incoming Freshman to see all the extracurriculars Woodson has to offer. Hearty thank yous to the athletes that manned the table. We received some interest – but to be truly honest – our BEST source of recruitment is ALL OF YOU. It’s never too early to start talking to neighbors and friends about all that rowing has to offer. Send potential recruits to our interest form at: https://woodsonrowing.org/.

6. STAYING FIT
This one is for the athletes – but parents – you may benefit from these resources too! Review the whole resources page at https://woodsonrowing.org/resources/. Make sure you scroll through. There are links to information from your coaches (recommended workout plans) as well as links for summer and fall rowing programs that meet most needs. When in doubt – REACH OUT via Slack! We are a team and we all #PullforWoodson!

7. KEEP UP-TO-DATE IN THE OFF-SEASON!

STAY UP TO DATE: Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected] or view the newsletter archives on our website.

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

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

The official end of racing happened this last weekend with the MFr8+ and WJr4+ rowing strong at the SRAA Nationals Regatta. Now we are ready to wrap up the season and forge ahead to next year!

1. END-OF-YEAR BANQUET TOMORROW
2. BRING YOUR OLD WOODSON GEAR TO THE BANQUET TOMORROW!
3. SUMMER ERG RENTAL – PICK UP TOMORROW
4. REVIEW PROPOSED BOARD FOR NEXT YEAR
5. THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW NEEDS YOU!
6. WE STILL NEED VOLUNTEERS
7. 2025-2026 SCHOOL PHYSICAL
8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

SUPPORT THE TEAM!

1. END-OF-YEAR BANQUET TOMORROW
Please plan to join us in celebrating a wonderful season! 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! RSVP and see you at 7p in Cafe A!

2. BRING YOUR OLD WOODSON GEAR TO THE BANQUET TOMORROW!
Are you graduating and won’t be wearing your uni any more? 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!

3. SUMMER ERG RENTAL DEADLINE AND PICK UP TOMORROW!
The team has a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. The erg rental form will close at 9am tomorrow (5/28), so act now! 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/

4. 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!

5. THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW NEEDS YOU!
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! 

6. 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:

• End of Season Chuck Wagon Workday (May 31, 2025)
• End of Season Boathouse Workday (June 7, 2025)

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/

• Wed, 5/28: End of year banquet for athletes and parents, 7-9p, Woodson Cafe A
• Sat, 5/31: End of Season Chuck Wagon Workday
• Sat, 6/7: End of Season Boathouse Workday

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!

---

---

---

---

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

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

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:

• SRAA Volunteer Sign Up
• End of Season Chuck Wagon Workday (May 31, 2025)
• End of Season Boathouse Workday (June 7, 2025)

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

• Thu, 5/22: MFr8+ and WJr4+ Travel to SRAA
• Fri, 5/23 – Sat, 5/24: SRAA National Championship Regatta
• Wed, 5/28: End of year banquet for athletes and parents, 7-9p, Woodson Cafe A
• Sat, 5/31: End of Season Chuck Wagon Workday
• Sat, 6/7: End of Season Boathouse Workday

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!

---

---

---

---

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X

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:

• Stotesbury Volunteer Sign Up
• End of Season Chuck Wagon Workday (May 31, 2025)
• End of Season Boathouse Workday (June 7, 2025)

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!!!!

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

• Wed, 5/14: Luggage Check-in for Stotes, 7-8p, Door 3
• Thu, 5/15: Travel to Stotesbury Cup Regatta (selected boats only)
• Fri, 5/16 – Sat, 5/17: Stotesbury Cup Regatta, Philadelphia, PA
• Mon, 5/19: &Pizza restaurant day, 11a-5p, use code ROWING
• Thu, 5/22: MFr8+ and WJ4+ Travel to SRAA
• Fri, 5/23 – Sat, 5/24: SRAA National Championship Regatta
• Wed, 5/28: End of year banquet for athletes and parents, 7-9p, Woodson Cafe A

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