It’s almost time for winter break! What a great time to sit back and reflect on 2024 with an eye toward how we can make 2025 the best year yet. 

1. REGISTRATION AND SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY

2. WINTER CONDITIONING SCHEDULE FOR BREAK

3. SAVE THE DATES
A. REGISTERED DIETITIAN and NUTRITIONIST VISIT, JAN 17
B. WINTER SWIM TESTS
C. BOATHOUSE WORKDAY / GREEN DAY

4. DON’T MISS OUT ON TEAM UPDATES

5. END OF YEAR DONATIONS

6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

1. REGISTRATION AND SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Although the early bird discount has expired, registration for the season is still open and available! Please review the registration portion of the website to learn more. Still have questions? Reach out to our membership team at [email protected].

If the cost of participating is an issue, consider applying for the Occoquan Boat Club (OBC) Julia Shew Memorial Rowing Scholarship. The details on applying are located on the OBC website https://www.rowobc.org/home/scholarships. The application deadline is January 25, 2025. Direct any questions to Karin Udler at [email protected] **Please note, Woodson Rowing is not affiliated with OBC and is not at all involved in this scholarship process.**

2. WINTER CONDITIONING SCHEDULE FOR BREAK
The team takes a hiatus on our official Winter Conditioning schedule over winter break. HOWEVER, there will be OPTIONAL winter conditioning during the 2nd week of break. All athletes combined at the same time. Meet in Cafe B on the following schedule:

Monday, Dec 30: 10a-12p
Tuesday, Dec 31: 10a-12p
Thursday, Jan 2: 10a-12p
Friday, Jan 3: 10a-12p

Just a reminder that winter break is not the time for athletes to get complacent with fitness! Make sure you stay on top of the strength you have been building. Not able to attend winter conditioning but unsure what to do? Visit our Winter Conditioning page and scroll to the bottom for some ideas. Need a workout buddy? Make sure you’re on the athlete Slack to stay motivated.

3. SAVE THE DATES

A. REGISTERED DIETITIAN and NUTRITIONIST VISIT, JAN 17
On Friday, January 17, 2025, from 4:30-5:30p Estela Schnelle, MS RD will visit the team to speak to the athletes (and any parents that are available to attend) about the unique nutritional needs of high school rowers. If you recognize the name, that’s because Estela is a local registered dietician and nutritionist at the Washington Center for Weight Management and Research, as well as parent to rower Marin Schnelle! Any questions? Reach out to Estela on Slack.

B. WINTER SWIM TESTS
The next two swim tests are scheduled for February 8 and February 15. All athletes must pass a swim test once with Woodson Rowing in order to participate in on-the-water practices. If you’ve never done a swim test with us before, sign up here: Winter Swim Tests.

C. BOATHOUSE WORKDAY / GREEN DAY
We will also have a boathouse workday/green day on Saturday, February 8. Some parent volunteers are needed and athletes should sign up to help/get on the water! Sign up here: Feb 8 Workday/Green Day.

4. DON’T MISS OUT ON TEAM UPDATES
The two best ways to stay up to date on all things Woodson Rowing: (1) this newsletter via email and (2) our Slack community. There are 2 separate Slack spaces: one for coach and athlete communications and a separate space for parent/guardian communications. Please contact our communications team at [email protected] if you need help with getting signed up for either!

5. END OF YEAR DONATIONS
Did you know that the Woodson Rowing Boosters Association is a tax deductible organization? If you haven’t met your donation goals for 2024, please consider making a donation to Woodson Rowing to take advantage of tax savings for the year. Don’t forget to check if your employer offers a donation matching program!! Visit the Donors page on the website or contact our fundraising team at [email protected] if you have questions or need help setting up your final donations for the year. 

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

DECEMBER:

• 12/23-12/27: enjoy the break!
• 12/30: Optional winter conditioning, Cafe B, 10-12p
• 12/31: Optional winter conditioning, Cafe B, 10-12p

JANUARY 2025:

• 01/02: Optional winter conditioning, Cafe B, 10-12p
• 01/03: Optional winter conditioning, Cafe B, 10-12p
• Mon, 01/06: Regular Winter Conditioning schedule resumes
• Thu, 01/16: Mama Lucia restaurant fundraiser, 11a-8p
• Fri, 01/17: RD/Nutritionist visit during winter conditioning, Cafe B, 4:30-5:30p
• Mon, 01/20: MLK Day, NO WINTER CONDITIONING

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Boathouse Workday/Green Day, 9a-12:30p
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Mon, 2/17: President’s Day, NO WINTER CONDITIONING
• Mon, 2/24: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

Athletes have been building camaraderie and strength at winter conditioning! Participation is highly encouraged for all athletes to develop the cardiovascular fitness and camaraderie needed to make winning boats.

1. EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ENDS ON SATURDAY!!!
2. TACO BAMBA FUNDRAISER, WED DEC 18
3. FUNDRAISING
4. WINTER CONDITIONING ONGOING
5. SAVE-THE-DATES
6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

---

ACTION ITEMS
– Register for the season to get the early bird discount

---

1. EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ENDS ON SATURDAY!!!

2. TACO BAMBA FUNDRAISER, WED DEC 18, 9a-9p

3. FUNDRAISING
Our mini tag day last week brought in a little over $1100. Big thanks to the parents and athletes that participated. Unfortunately, we are still about $5000 short of our total fundraising goal across the 3 tag days. Here are 2 ways you can help with getting the word out to folks who would like to support us as a team:

(1) Send friends/family/anyone who will listen to woodsonrowing.org/give. All donations are tax-deductible.

(2) Talk to businesses that you frequent about the possibility of sponsorship. We’ve already had one sponsor provide $1000 just because a parent thought to ask! But no donation is too big or too small. Please let potential sponsors know that we typically have 70-80 families enrolled each year and that we maintain a strong tie to our alumni. Our newsletter goes out to approximately 500 people and our social media can reach almost 800 (more if folks share our posts)! With a reach like that, we can really help boost local businesses’ presence. Please direct anyone interested in becoming a sponsor of our team to the Donors page on the website or to our fundraising team at [email protected].

4. WINTER CONDITIONING ONGOING

5. SAVE-THE-DATES
The next two swim tests are scheduled for February 8 and February 15. All athletes must pass a swim test once with Woodson Rowing in order to participate in on-the-water practices. If you’ve never done a swim test with us before, please feel free to sign up here: Winter Swim Tests.

We will also have a boathouse workday/green day on Saturday, February 8. Some parent volunteers are needed and athletes should sign up to help/get on the water! Sign up here: Feb 8 Workday/Green Day.

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

DECEMBER:

Registration Ongoing!

Winter Conditioning ongoing!

• Sat, 12/14: Early bird registration discount ends at midnight!
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser, 9a-9p
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes
• Thu, 01/16: Mama Lucia restaurant fundraiser, 11a-8p

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Boathouse Workday/Green Day, 9a-12:30p
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

December is here, which means conditioning for the spring is in full swing. Read on to learn more about what’s happening this winter with Woodson Rowing!

1. REGISTER EARLY FOR A DISCOUNT
2. MINI TAG DAY THIS SATURDAY, DEC 7
3. WINTER CONDITIONING ONGOING
4. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER KENDRA SCOTT EVENT
5. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

ACTION ITEMS
– Register for the season to get the early bird discount
– Sign up for Mini Tag Day

1. REGISTER EARLY FOR A DISCOUNT
Registration for the 2025 Woodson Rowing season opened on December 1, 2025. For those who register before December 15, there is a $50 discounted early bird pricing! Please review the registration portion of the website to learn more. Still have questions? Reach out to our membership team at [email protected].

2. MINI TAG DAY THIS SATURDAY, DEC 7
Lots of help is still needed! We will only be doing a morning shift. Staging will take place at the Veigel home so that we can send athlete teams to portions of the Woodson pyramid that we were not able to visit over the previous 2 Tag Days. It is CRUCIAL that we get as many participants (both athlete and parent driver) as possible. Sign up here: Mini Tag Day Sign Up.

3. WINTER CONDITIONING ONGOING
Please visit our website for all things winter conditioning (whether you are a novice or experienced rower): https://woodsonrowing.org/winter-conditioning/. Meet in Cafe B at your designated time and be dressed to work out! Recommended attire: sneakers, shorts (not baggy/basketball style) or tights, t-shirt or tank top and a sweatshirt and/or windbreaker for running or to wear afterward so you do not freeze on the way home.

4. WOODSON ATHLETIC BOOSTER KENDRA SCOTT EVENT

5. 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/

DECEMBER:

Registration Ongoing!

Winter Conditioning ongoing!

• Sat, 12/7: 3rd Tag Day
• Sat, 12/14: Early bird registration discount ends at midnight!
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser, Fairfax, Braddock Rd.
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes
• Thu, 01/16: Mama Lucia restaurant fundraiser, 11a-8p

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Boathouse Workday. Stay tuned for details.
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

Welcome to a special edition newsletter about ALL THINGS REGISTRATION!! Read below for all the steps you need to take and what to expect from here on out!

1. HOW DO I GET REGISTERED?

2. ENSURE YOU’VE COMPLETED 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. PRACTICE BUS SURVEY

4. WINTER CONDITIONING STARTS MONDAY

5. JOIN SLACK

6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

---

1. HOW DO I GET REGISTERED?
It’s easy! Visit our website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/registration/

A $50 discounted early bird pricing is in effect until December 15, 2024. Don’t delay to take advantage of this discount.

2. ENSURE YOU’VE COMPLETED 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.

Complete on the Woodson Rowing website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/2025registrationform/. 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

Complete on the Woodson Athletics website at: https://woodson-ar.rschooltoday.com/. 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 please do so as soon as possible! The appropriate form can be found on the Woodson Athletics website, must be dated after May 1, 2024, and must be on file with the Woodson Athletic trainers. 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.). Hard copies with signatures are required. The 3 forms below can be found on the Woodson Rowing website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/physicals-and-required-documents-for-rowers/

Please note: Emailed/electronic copies of the forms will not be accepted. Completed forms should be provided to the Woodson Crew Membership Chair, Catherine Backmeyer. The easiest way to do this is to send the form with your athlete to Winter Conditioning. They can provide the forms to Sarah or Madeline Backmeyer

Still have questions? Reach out to our membership team at [email protected].

3. PRACTICE BUS SURVEY
If you answered “YES” to the practice bus question on the registration form, please take a moment to fill out a 5 question survey designed to get baseline numbers so that our V.P. Activities can pursue receiving quotes to charter a practice bus for the 2025 season. Fill out the survey here: https://forms.gle/iTDTDWVwdWy2eTHd8

4. WINTER CONDITIONING STARTS MONDAY
Don’t forget, Winter Conditioning starts Monday! Meet in Cafe B at your designated time and be dressed to work out! Recommended attire: sneakers, shorts (not baggy/basketball style) or tights, t-shirt or tank top and a sweatshirt and/or windbreaker for running or to wear afterward so you do not freeze on the way home.

Please visit our website to learn about all things winter conditioning (whether you are a novice or experienced rower): https://woodsonrowing.org/winter-conditioning/. This site has recommendations for nutrition and recovery, which is especially crucial if you are new to working out this frequently. Please note that participation is highly encouraged for all athletes to develop the cardiovascular fitness and camaraderie needed to make winning boats. Winter conditioning is when you make the most important investment in your spring racing

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. You can also see a visual representation of our calendar on our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/calendar/

DECEMBER:

• Sun, 12/1: Registration Begins!
• Mon, 12/2: Winter Conditioning Begins.
• Sat, 12/7: 3rd Tag Day
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Boathouse Workday. Stay tuned for details.
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope your bellies are full as we head into Winter Conditioning next week!

1. PRACTICE BUS SURVEY

2. 2024-25 REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1

3. WINTER CONDITIONING STARTS MONDAY

4. FROST ROWING PROGRAM RECAP

5. FUNDRAISING REMINDERS
A. MINI TAG DAY DEC 7. SIGN UP NOW.
B. SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
C. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
D. BUY SPIRIT WEAR

6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

ACTION ITEMS
– Fill out bus interest survey: 2025 Practice Bus Survey

– Sign up for Mini Tag Day: Mini Tag Day Sign Up

1. PRACTICE BUS SURVEY
Only 29 people have filled out the survey so far. Please take 3 minutes to fill out this 5 question survey. This information is needed to get baseline numbers so that our V.P. Activities can pursue receiving quotes to charter a practice bus for the 2025 season. Fill out the survey here: https://forms.gle/iTDTDWVwdWy2eTHd8

2. 2024-25 REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1
Registration will open on December 1, 2024. A $50 discounted early bird pricing will be offered for those who register before December 15! Please review the registration portion of the website to learn more. Still have questions? Reach out to our membership team at [email protected].

3. WINTER CONDITIONING STARTS MONDAY
Meet in Cafe B at your designated time and be dressed to work out! Recommended attire: sneakers, shorts (not baggy/basketball style) or tights, t-shirt or tank top and a sweatshirt and/or windbreaker for running or to wear afterward so you do not freeze on the way home.

Remember, you need the the following completed BEFORE participating:
– a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept
(hard copies delivered to Rm. C158, soft copies emailed to [email protected])

– Woodson Athletics Registration (this is separate from Woodson Rowing Registration and 

4. FROST ROWING PROGRAM RECAP
The Inaugural Frost Rowing After-School Program was a roaring success! Being able to expose 7th and 8th graders to the ergs and what rowing is about is how we build the future of our program. We hope that this is just the beginning of a wonderful relationship with our feeder middle school. Big thanks to Frost PTA President M. Nasser Akhtar for starting this process and encouraging such active participation. As always, our coaches and athletes rose above and beyond. Many thank yous to: Coach Joe for doing most of the heavy lifting and organizing, Coach Tylander and Coach Ron for lending their expertise and the athletes who showed up to orient, guide and help manage the nearly 45 middle schoolers that came to each “practice.” If you’d like to see some pictures that were taken, please visit our SmugMug at: https://woodsonrowing.smugmug.com/Inaugural-Frost-Rowing-Program

5. FUNDRAISING REMINDERS
Fundraising is a fundamental part of Woodson Rowing, since we are not financially supported by FCPS or Woodson High School. By raising sufficient funds we are able to keep dues down and adequately take care of our athletes. We have yet to reach our pre-season funding goals, so please read on for how you can help!

A. MINI TAG DAY DEC 7. SIGN UP NOW.
Please block off this morning to participate and help your team! We will only be doing a morning shift. Staging will take place at the Veigel home so that we can send athlete teams to portions of the Woodson pyramid that we were not able to visit over the previous 2 Tag Days. It is CRUCIAL that we get as many participants (both athlete and parent driver) as possible. Please sign up for the DECEMBER 7 mini Tag Day here: Mini Tag Day Sign Up.

B. SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
On the same day as our mini tag day (Dec 7), we will be running a social media campaign to collect more donations. Parents and athletes alike will be invited to share our social media posts and email or text friends and family to boost donations. Meanwhile, please think of who you may be able to recruit to donate to help our team. Stay tuned for more info.

C. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
If you, or anyone you know, might be interested in becoming a sponsor of our team, the Donors page on the website is a great resource. In addition, please check with your employers to see if they have any matching programs! Some employers will match charitable donations made by their employees. Please our fundraising team at [email protected] with any questions, to arrange sponsorships or set up employer matching!

D. BUY SPIRIT WEAR
With the holidays approaching, your purchase of spirit wear benefits our team AND will delight gift recipients. Purchase Woodson Rowing specific gear at our Squad Locker store!

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

DECEMBER:

• Sun, 12/1: Registration Begins!
• Mon, 12/2: Winter Conditioning Begins.
• Sat, 12/7: 3rd Tag Day
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Boathouse Workday. Stay tuned for details.
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

Restaurant night fundraiser at Paisano’s in Burke TONIGHT. See details below.

1. FUNDRAISER TONIGHT!

2. PRACTICE BUS SURVEY

3. 2024-25 REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1

4. WINTER CONDITIONING SCHEDULE IS SET

5. WE NEED YOUR HELP FUNDRAISING
A. MINI TAG DAY DEC 7. SIGN UP NOW.
B. SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
C. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
D. BUY SPIRIT WEAR

6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

---

ACTION ITEMS:
– Fill out bus interest survey: 2025 Practice Bus Survey
– Sign up for Mini Tag Day: Mini Tag Day Sign Up

---

2. PRACTICE BUS SURVEY
We have developed a practice bus survey to get baseline numbers so that our V.P. Activities can pursue receiving quotes to charter a practice bus for the 2025 season. PLEASE FILL OUT THIS 5 QUESTION SURVEY: https://forms.gle/iTDTDWVwdWy2eTHd8
3. 2024-25 REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1

Registration will open on December 1, 2024. Early bird pricing will be offered, so please plan to register before the new year. Please review the registration portion of the website to learn more. Still have questions? Reach out to our membership team at [email protected].

4. WINTER CONDITIONING SCHEDULE IS SET
Winter conditioning is when you make the most important investment in your spring racing. If you did not participate in Green Days, please make sure that you have the following completed BEFORE December 2:

• a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept
  (hard copies delivered to Rm. C158, soft copies emailed to [email protected])
• Woodson Athletics Registration (this is separate from Woodson Rowing Registration and is required of ALL Woodson athletes).

5. WE NEED YOUR HELP FUNDRAISING
Fundraising is a fundamental part of Woodson Rowing, since we are not financially supported by FCPS or Woodson High School. By raising sufficient funds we are able to keep dues down and adequately take care of our athletes. We have yet to reach our pre-season funding goals, so please read on for how you can help!

A. MINI TAG DAY DEC 7. SIGN UP NOW.
Please block off this morning to participate and help your team! We will only be doing a morning shift. Staging will take place at the Veigel home so that we can send athlete teams to portions of the Woodson pyramid that we were not able to visit over the previous 2 Tag Days. It is CRUCIAL that we get as many participants (both athlete and parent driver) as possible. Please sign up for the DECEMBER 7 mini Tag Day here: Mini Tag Day Sign Up.

B. SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
On the same day as our mini tag day (Dec 7), we will be running a social media campaign to collect more donations. Parents and athletes alike will be invited to share our social media posts and email or text friends and family to boost donations. Meanwhile, please think of who you may be able to recruit to donate to help our team. Stay tuned for more info.

C. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
If you, or anyone you know, might be interested in becoming a sponsor of our team, the Donors page on the website is a great resource. In addition, please check with your employers to see if they have any matching programs! Some employers will match charitable donations made by their employees. Please our fundraising team at [email protected] with any questions, to arrange sponsorships or set up employer matching!

D. BUY SPIRIT WEAR
With the holidays approaching, your purchase of spirit wear benefits our team AND will delight gift recipients. Purchase Woodson Rowing specific gear at our Squad Locker store.

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

NOVEMBER:

• Wed., 11/21: Paisano’s Burke restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p

DECEMBER:

• Sun, 12/1: Registration Begins!
• Mon, 12/2: Winter Conditioning Begins.
• Sat, 12/7: 3rd Tag Day
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

Thank you to all of the helpers, shoppers and supporters of our 31st Annual Woodson Craft Show. Extra thanks to Gail Lee for being our fearless leader. Also, congratulations to senior Ellie Fossand on her signing and commitment to row at Rutgers University next year.

1. FUNDRAISING UPDATES
A. MINI TAG DAY DEC 7. SIGN UP NOW.
B. SOCIAL MEDIA FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
C. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

3. VASRA WORKDAY THIS SATURDAY

4. WINTER CONDITIONING

5. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

1. FUNDRAISING UPDATES
With most of our biggest fundraisers behind us, the Board is focused on finding ways to cover budget shortfalls before the season begins. While the Craft Show continues to generate expected income, our first two Tag Days fell short of goal. Read on for how you can help us reach our funding goals!

A. MINI TAG DAY DEC 7. SIGN UP NOW.
Please block off this morning to participate and help your team! We will only be doing a morning shift. Staging will take place at the Veigel home so that we can send athlete teams to portions of the Woodson pyramid that we were not able to visit over the previous 2 Tag Days. It is CRUCIAL that we get as many participants (both athlete and parent driver) as possible. Please sign up for the DECEMBER 7 mini Tag Day here: Mini Tag Day Sign Up.

B. SOCIAL MEDIA FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
On the same day as our mini tag day (Dec 7), we will be running a social media campaign to collect more donations. Parents and athletes alike will be invited to share our social media posts and email or text friends and family to boost donations. Meanwhile, please think of who you may be able to recruit to donate to help our team. Stay tuned for more info.

C. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
If you, or anyone you know, might be interested in becoming a sponsor of our team, the Donors page on the website is a great resource. In addition, please check with your employers to see if they have any matching programs! Some employers will match charitable donations made by their employees. Please our fundraising team at [email protected] with any questions, to arrange sponsorships or set up employer matching!

3. VASRA WORKDAY THIS SATURDAY
Big thanks to Khoi Do for signing up for this Saturday’s VASRA work day! Although all of the slots are currently full, feel free to show up and provide extra help getting Sandy Run ready for the on-the-water training and racing season. All parents and athletes are welcome. Athletes can receive volunteer hours for their work. Click the link for more info: VASRA Workday

4. WINTER CONDITIONING
The team will begin Winter Conditioning on Monday, December 2. Coaches are finalizing the schedule and should have it in place by next week. Winter conditioning is when you make the most important investment in your spring racing. If you did not participate in Green Days, please make sure that you have the following completed BEFORE December 2:
– a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept
(hard copies delivered to Rm. C158, soft copies emailed to [email protected])
– Completed the Woodson Athletics Registration

To learn more about why you should participate in winter conditioning, visit our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/winter-conditioning/. Participation is highly encouraged for all athletes to develop the cardiovascular fitness and camaraderie needed to make winning boats!

5. 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/

NOVEMBER:

• Sat, 11/16: VASRA Workday

DECEMBER:

• Mon, 12/2: Winter Conditioning Begins
• Sat, 12/7: 3rd Tag Day
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

Let’s get ready to support the 31st Annual Woodson Craft Show!

1. CRAFT SHOW THIS WEEKEND, 11/9
A. CRITICAL NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS!!
B. BOREDOM RELIEF PROGRAM
C. VENDOR PREVIEW PAGE

2. VASRA WORKDAY

3. SAVE THE DATE – TENTATIVE 3rd TAG DAY

4. WINTER CONDITIONING

5. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

1. CRAFT SHOW THIS WEEKEND, 11/9
Read below to find out all you need to know – or check out the Craft Show Special newsletter on our website at: https://woodsonrowing.org/november-5-2024-craft-show-special/

A. CRITICAL NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS!!

There are tons of unassigned spots that MUST be filled. There are currently 105 vendors scheduled and thousands of shoppers expected, so we need lots of help to make this very popular regional show (that is also an important fundraiser for our team) a success. Scroll through the Craft Show Sign Up Genius to fill our most critical needs:

• Heavy Duty EXTENSION CORDS and POWER STRIPS
• BAKED GOODS
• SIGN HOLDERS during the show. (Only 2 hour shifts – not for the entire day)
• VENDOR ASSISTANCE. ​​This early, long shift grants double service credits. And is, arguably, the most important work helping the vendors get set up for the day. This assistance is one of the many reasons that vendors LOVE our show. Please help us keep up the good impression!
• TAKE DOWN ASSISTANCE. Starts at 4:00PM until done. Many hands make light work here.

B. BOREDOM RELIEF PROGRAM
Ms. Virginia North America, Taylor Ragano, will have a table set up to support her Boredom Relief Program. She will be collecting items (books, coloring books, games and other forms of entertainment) and raising funds and awareness for mental health patients in psychiatric hospitals and residential programs. Visit her website to learn more about how you can help. Get into the holiday spirit of giving AND maybe get your photo taken with a bonafide beauty queen!

C. VENDOR PREVIEW PAGE
New this year, we have a Vendor Preview Page on our website. Check out all of our amazing vendors, follow them on social media, and get ready to shop!2. VASRA WORKDAY

VASRA is hard at work getting Sandy Run ready for the on-the-water training and racing season. There are two dates available that would earn you a VASRA volunteering credit: Sat, Nov 9 and Sat, Nov 16. We do ask that the craft fair on 11/9 be your priority, but if there are multiple volunteers in your family, you can certainly divide and conquer! All parents and athletes are welcome. Athletes can receive volunteer hours for their work. Click the link for more info and to sign up: VASRA Workday

3. SAVE THE DATE – TENTATIVE 3rd TAG DAY
Based on the amounts collected over the last 2 Tag Days, plans are being made to schedule a 3rd Tag Day to try and meet our fundraising goals for the season. Stay tuned for more information, but please Save the Date for Saturday, December 7. More information to follow. Questions? Reach out to Tag Day Coordinator Patrick Obruba via Slack.

4. WINTER CONDITIONING
The team will begin winter Conditioning on Monday, December 2. Winter conditioning is when you make the most important investment in your spring racing. If you did not participate in Green Days, please make sure that you have the following completed BEFORE December 2:

• a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept
  (hard copies delivered to Rm. C158, soft copies emailed to [email protected])
• Completed the Woodson Athletics Registration

To learn more about why you should participate in winter conditioning, visit our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/winter-conditioning/. Participation is highly encouraged for all athletes to develop the cardiovascular fitness and camaraderie needed to make winning boats!

5. 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/

NOVEMBER:

• Fri, 11/8: Set up for the craft show, Sign up to help
• Sat, 11/9: 31st Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p, Sign up to help
• Sat, 11/9: VASRA Workday
• Thu, 11/14: College Commitment Ceremony at Woodson, 10am
• Sat, 11/16: VASRA Workday

DECEMBER:

• Mon, 12/2: Winter Conditioning Begins
• Sat, 12/7: 3rd Tag Day
• Wed, 12/18: Taco Bamba restaurant fundraiser
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes

FEBRUARY:

• Wed, 2/5: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
• Sat, 2/8: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Sat, 2/15: Swim test for new recruits, 11a-12p, Audrey Moore Rec
• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

One of our biggest fundraisers, the Woodson Craft Show, is upon us. This is the 31st year of the show! We have many critical needs that still need to be met. We know that the season hasn’t even officially started and we are asking for a lot of participation – but these fundraising efforts, in particular, are what enable our team to be the successful program that we all enjoy being a part of! Please consider setting aside some of your time to help us make this long standing event a success.

1. URGENT REQUEST FOR HELP!
2. WHEN IS THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW?
3. WHO IS THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW FOR?
4. WHAT DO I GET OUT OF THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW?
5. OK. BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW?
6. ALRIGHT. YOU CONVINCED ME. WHAT DO YOU NEED ME TO DO?

1. URGENT REQUEST FOR HELP!
The Craft Show Sign Up Genius is long and maybe confusing to navigate – but that’s because we have SO MANY jobs that need to be filled to make this event run smoothly. Scroll all the way down to find the perfect opportunity for you. Here are our most critical needs:

• Heavy Duty EXTENSION CORDS and POWER STRIPS
• BAKED GOODS
• SIGN HOLDERS during the show. (Only 2 hour shifts – not for the entire day)
• VENDOR ASSISTANCE. ​​This early, long shift grants double service credits. And is, arguably, the most important work helping the vendors get set up for the day. This assistance is one of the many reasons that vendors LOVE our show. Please help us keep up the good impression!
• TAKE DOWN ASSISTANCE. Starts at 4:00PM until done. Many hands make light work here.

2. WHEN IS THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW?
Set up begins the night before the show, Friday, Nov 8. On that evening we need volunteers to help set-up and organize the many donated/loaned items that will be used the next day.

The show is on Saturday, November 9. Set-up continues at 6:30AM! Adults and athletes help our vendors get set up for when the doors open at 10:00AM. During the show, we need lots of volunteers to run things like the concession stand, greet, and hold signs at major intersections to draw in more shoppers. The show ends at 4:00PM, and then the tear down begins.

3. WHO IS THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW FOR?
Everyone, really! We currently have over 100 vendors signed up. Many vendors LOVE this event more than any other craft show because of all the help that the athletes provide them in bringing their merchandise into the school to set up. The Craft Show is also for shoppers. Admission is FREE and it’s a great place to start (or finish, if you’re really on the ball) holiday shopping. There is, literally, something for everyone.

4. WHAT DO I GET OUT OF THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW?
Shifts of labor are for service credit. You MUST check in with Gail and sign in upon arrival to get credit. There will be a table set up for check in just inside Door #3, near the bake sale. Shifts for both athletes and adults are included.

You ALSO get the opportunity to benefit the team in a FUN way. These vendors are amazing artisans who are very skilled at what they do. It’s fun to engage with creative people and learn about them and their wares. Any money you spend benefits the team because it keeps these vendors coming back year after year. (All the money made by the team is linked to what the vendors pay to participate in the show).

5. OK. BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS THE WOODSON CRAFT SHOW?
This exceptional show features juried handmade arts and crafts from dozens of artisans around the region. Absolutely no buy-sell, resale or kits are allowed. So, all items offered for sale are handcrafted by the exhibitor. 

It also brings thousands of shoppers to Woodson High School and benefits the Woodson Rowing Team.

This show has THREE UNIQUE FEATURES:
— NO ADMISSION FEE for shoppers
— ELECTRICITY is included in the booth fee
— STUDENT ATHLETES assist crafters with loading and unloading their supplies!

6. ALRIGHT. YOU CONVINCED ME. WHAT DO YOU NEED ME TO DO?

• VOLUNTEER. Sign Up here!
• SPREAD THE WORD! Let’s flood all our channels with this event to get as many shoppers as we can!
  • If you’re on Facebook, there’s an event you can join and then share with your friends: Woodson Craft Show Facebook Event.
  • If you’re on IG, share our most recent post on your stories.
  • Share the graphic below ANYWHERE – your local neighborhood Facebook group, your Next Door group, on your personal timelines.
  • Check out (and share) our new-this-year vendor gallery for a taste of what you’ll find at the show: 2024 Craft Show Vendors
• SHOW UP AND SHOP!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Tag day is THIS SATURDAY, so make sure you set aside the day to help out your team.

1. TAG DAY THIS SATURDAY, 11/2, 8:30AM

2. CRAFT SHOW NEXT WEEKEND, 11/9
A. CRITICAL NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS!!
B. BOREDOM RELIEF PROGRAM
C. VENDOR PREVIEW PAGE

3. LAST OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING, 11/6

4. WINTER CONDITIONING

5. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE

WAIT – THERE’S MORE?

---

1. TAG DAY THIS SATURDAY, 11/2, 8:30AM
We need more adults and athletes to show up!! If you did not participate in Tag Day last weekend, please make sure you’re signed up for this weekend. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Review THIS newsletter for all the information you need or the Tag Days webpage. Still have questions? Reach out to Tag Day Coordinator Patrick Obruba via Slack.

2. CRAFT SHOW NEXT WEEKEND, 11/9
A. CRITICAL NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS!!
There are tons of unassigned spots that MUST be filled. There will be 100+ vendors and thousands of shoppers in attendance, so we need lots of help to make this very popular regional show (that is also an important fundraiser for our team) a success. We don’t only need your time – we also need your BAKING SKILLS! Volunteer for a spot but also consider signing up to bring a baked good for us to sell. Sign up here: Craft Show Volunteer Sign Up.

B. BOREDOM RELIEF PROGRAM
Ms. Virginia North America, Taylor Ragano, will have a table set up to support her Boredom Relief Program. She will be collecting items (books, coloring books, games and other forms of entertainment) and raising funds and awareness for mental health patients in psychiatric hospitals and residential programs. Visit her website to learn more about how you can help. Get into the holiday spirit of giving AND maybe get your photo taken with a bonafide beauty queen!

C. VENDOR PREVIEW PAGE
New this year, we have a Vendor Preview Page on our website. Check out all of our amazing vendors, follow them on social media, and get ready to shop!

3. LAST OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING, 11/6
The last day of optional strength training will be Wednesday, November 6 at the Woodson weight room from 6:30-7:30a. There will not be optional strength training on Monday, November 4 because of the day off from school.

4. WINTER CONDITIONING
The team will begin winter Conditioning on Monday, December 2.
BEFORE YOU CAN PARTICIPATE, all athletes must have:
(1) a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept.
(hard copies delivered to Rm. C158, soft copies emailed to the athletic trainer).
(2) Completed the Woodson Athletics Registration

To learn more about why you should participate in winter conditioning, visit our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/winter-conditioning/. Participation is highly encouraged for all athletes to develop the cardiovascular fitness and camaraderie needed to make winning boats!

5. 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/

NOVEMBER:

• Sat, 11/2: 2nd Tag Day, 8:45a – 4p
• Wed, 11/6: Optional Strength Training at Woodson, 6:30a
• Fri, 11/8: Set up for the craft show, Sign up to help
• Sat, 11/9: 31st Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p, Sign up to help

DECEMBER:

• Mon, 12/2: Winter Conditioning Begins
• 12/23-1/3/25: Winter break.
• 12/30-01/03: Tentative optional training. Stay tuned for more info.

JANUARY 2025:

• Mon, 01/06: Winter Conditioning resumes

FEBRUARY:

• Fri, 2/21: last day of Winter Conditioning
• Tue, 2/25: first day of on-the-water practice!

MARCH:

• Sat, 3/22: Polar Bear Regatta (Varsity Only), 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
• Twitter