SPECIAL EDITION NEWSLETTER ON OUR UPCOMING TAG DAY!
Our first Tag Day is coming THIS SATURDAY, OCT 26!! Here’s all the info you need on the team’s BIGGEST and MOST LUCRATIVE fundraiser of the year. We need LOTS of PARENTS and as many ATHLETES as possible to make this a success.
1. WHAT EXACTLY IS A TAG DAY? 2. GENERAL TIMELINE OF EVENTS ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26 3. WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?¶ 4. WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE ALL DAY? 5. WHY DO I NEED TO SIGN UP? 6. WHEN IS TAG DAY AGAIN? 7. WHY DO WE DO TAG DAYS?
ATHLETES: PRINT, FILL IN AND BRING this form (signed by your parents)
PARENT DRIVERS: PRINT, FILL IN AND BRING this form
1. WHEN IS TAG DAY AGAIN? Tag Days have been divided up into TWO FULL DAY (8:30 AM – 4:00 PM) events. The first day is THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26. The second day is NEXT Saturday, November 2.
2. WHAT EXACTLY IS A TAG DAY? Tag Days are the most important athlete-driven fundraiser of the year.
On Tag Days, athletes (transported by volunteer parents) walk door-to-door in our local neighborhoods. They are given scripts to help them confidently tell Woodson families about the sport of rowing, how we receive no FCPS funds, that we rely on dues and donations — and then ask for their support.
Athletes are always grouped together, so no one goes alone. Groups of 3 or 4 athletes (with at least 1 returning/seasoned athlete) will be paired with 1 parent volunteer driver. Each parent volunteer will drive to their pre-mapped route so that the athletes may canvas their designated area. Parent volunteers are responsible for safely transporting athletes, keeping eyes on them during canvassing for safety, and helping them keep track of the cash and checks they collect.
3. GENERAL TIMELINE OF EVENTS
Time
Event
8:30 AM
Arrive. Please park at the FRONT of Woodson (Door 1). Meet up in Woodson Cafeteria A.
Tag Day Timeline of Events. Times are not exact, but we will hold to this schedule as closely as possible. Any changes will be discussed in-person at the event!
4. WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?¶
ATHLETES ❖ MUST BRING this form signed by your parents. We will have some blank ones on-site, but prefer you to print and fill out in advance so that we don’t have to chase down your parents for a signature before you can go. ❖ A refillable water bottle. Stay hydrated and then you’ll have water at lunch. ❖ A positive attitude! ❖ Woodson Rowing Spirit wear, if you have it. If you have some extra you’re willing to share with a novice, please bring it. A limited amount of spiritwear will be available to borrow for the day, should you wish.
PARENTS ❖ ALL DRIVERS must fill out this form to transport student athletes. We will have some blank ones on-site, but to speed up the process and get everyone out and about efficients, please print and fill out in advance. ❖ Anything you might like to have on hand while sitting in the car for a few hours (water, coffee, etc.). ❖ Patience. It can be challenging for athletes who have never canvassed before to speak to strangers. Your kind words and encouragement will go a long way.
5. WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE ALL DAY? We still need your help! While we are hoping for everyone to participate for the full day, if you can only make the morning or afternoon shift, please note that in the comments on the sign up genius. The AM shift will run from approximately 8:30a – noon. The PM shift will run from approximately noon – 3:30p.
6. WHY DO I NEED TO SIGN UP? It is preferred that you sign up beforehand because this allows parent volunteers to PRE-ASSIGN groups to routes, meaning everything runs a little more efficiently. But that being said, the more participants we have, the more quickly canvassing can be completed so please show up whether you remembered to sign up or not. Make it easy on all of us; click this link to SIGN UP NOW!
7. WHY DO WE DO TAG DAYS? ❖ Tag Days are our BIGGEST fundraiser of the year. So, while it might seem a time-consuming event, it helps us keep YOUR registration costs down, pay the coaches and maintain our equipment.
❖ A FULL DAY OF VOLUNTEERING (pre- and post-lunch shifts) fulfills TWO of your athlete and/or parent volunteer requirements.
Stay tuned for tomorrow’s TAG DAY SPECIAL EDITION newsletter with all you need to know going into our first Tag Day this Saturday. Read below for more news and more opportunities to help out the team!
1. KOKEE TEA FUNDRAISER THIS FRIDAY, OCT 25
2. WE NEED VOLUNTEERS ASAP A. TAG DAY, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 B. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, FRI 11/8 and SAT 11/9
3. RENTAL ERG RETURN, THIS SAT 10/26
4. ONLY 3 GREEN DAYS LEFT!
5. ONLY 3 MORE OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING DAYS LEFT
6. WINTER CONDITIONING
7. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
Celebrate the end of your week with a Hug in a Cup! This Friday, Oct 25 from 3-7p. Please mention Woodson Rowing to have a portion of your sale donated back to the team!
2. WE NEED VOLUNTEERS ASAP We are in dire need of your commitment to help with our TWO main fundraising events coming up: Tag Days and the Craft Show. The next 3 weekends are critical to the Spring season. Properly staffed, we make a predominant amount of the money we need for a successful season. We cannot do that without LOTS of help. All of our volunteering opportunities are always just a click away on our volunteering page. Visit and bookmark the site to stay up-to-date on how you can help the team!
A. TAG DAY, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. Funds collected during Tag Days off-set many of your costs during the season! Novice athletes are strongly encouraged to attend Tag Days because: (1) it helps to knock out volunteer requirements, (2) they get to spend the day bonding with varsity athletes and (3) it teaches them how to “talk about” rowing (since it is a new sport to most). Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Our Tag Days webpage can answer lots of your questions but we will also send out a special edition Tag Day newsletter TOMORROW with all the specific details you may need. Still have questions? Reach out to Tag Day Coordinator Patrick Obruba via Slack.
B. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, FRI 11/8 and SAT 11/9 Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8 from 6-8p. Volunteers are also needed during the event itself from 6:30a-4:30p on Saturday, Nov 9. Sign up to help to make this very popular regional show (that is also an important fundraiser for our team) a success. We will likely have 100+ vendors and, literally, thousands of shoppers on the day of the event. There are all types of volunteer spots available: help set up, provide baked goods, and get to know vendors on the day of the event. Sign up to help here: Craft Show Volunteer Sign Up.
We only have spots for a few more vendors! If your favorite vendor hasn’t signed up yet, encourage them to do so ASAP! 2024 Craft Show Vendor Registration.
3. RENTAL ERG RETURN, THIS SAT 10/26 Return your rented erg to the Woodson Rowing Erg Shed (back of school near senior parking) any time during a 8a-12p window. If you can, plan to stay for the Erg Shed Workday going on at the same time!
4. ONLY 3 GREEN DAYS LEFT! There are only 3 Green Days left, including today! (Thu – 10/24, Mon – 10/28, and Tue- 10/29). This is the last opportunity this season to get some experience in the boats (or refresh your skills) until we officially go on-the-water in late February. Make sure you sign up for any and all days now! Green Days Sign Up Genius.
5. ONLY 3 MORE OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING DAYS LEFT The last day of optional strength training will be Wednesday, November 6. The remaining strength training sessions will occur at the Woodson weight room from 6:30-7:30a on 10/28, 10/30 and 11/6. There will not be optional strength training on Monday, November 4 because of the day off from school. Coaches are in attendance to help you get stronger. Set your foundation for Winter Conditioning now!
6. WINTER CONDITIONING The team will begin winter Conditioning on Monday, December 2. BEFORE YOU CAN PARTICIPATE, all athletes must have:
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!
7. 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/
Big thank you to the folks that have signed up to work the concession stand at the Woodson Homecoming football game this Friday! We appreciate you representing our team and hope you have a great time at the game.
1. VOLUNTEERING UPDATES A. CRITICAL NEED: TAG DAY, SAT 10/26. B. VASRA DOCK REBUILD, SAT 10/19 or SAT 10/26 C. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
2. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/26
3. ONLY 6 GREEN DAYS LEFT!
4. ARE YOU ON SLACK?
5. WHAT YOU NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN WOODSON ROWING
6. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
ACTION ITEMS Please sign up here for our first Tag Day.
VOLUNTEERING UPDATES All of our volunteering opportunities are always just a click away on our volunteering page. Visit and bookmark the site to stay up-to-date on how you can help the team!
A. CRITICAL NEED: TAG DAY, SAT 10/26. Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. Properly staffed, Tag Days off-set many of your costs during the season! Novice athletes are strongly encouraged to attend Tag Days because: (1) it helps to knock out volunteer requirements, (2) they get to spend the day bonding with varsity athletes and (3) it teaches them how to “talk about” rowing (since it is a new sport to most). Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Our Tag Days webpage can answer lots of your questions, but also feel free to reach out to our Tag Day Coordinator, Patrick Obruba, via Slack.
B. VASRA DOCK REBUILD, SAT 10/19 or SAT 10/26 VASRA has asked for help in rebuilding docks at Sandy Run! No experience necessary, but know that this is a labor intensive job. Wearing CLOSED-TOE, sturdy shoes is a MUST. Make sure you note your affiliation with Woodson when you sign up: VASRA Dock Work Days.
(Note: Tag Days should be the priority on Oct 26, but if you have multiple family members that want to help crank out most of your volunteer credits in one weekend – divide and conquer!)
C. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8 from 6-8p. Volunteers are also needed during the event itself from 6:30a-4:30p on Saturday, Nov 9.Sign up to help to make this very popular regional show (that is also an important fundraiser for our team) a success.We will likely have 100+ vendors and, literally, thousands of shoppers on the day of the event. There are all types of volunteer spots available: help set up, provide baked goods, and get to know vendors on the day of the event. Sign up to help here: Craft Show Volunteer Sign Up.
We only have spots for about 9 more vendors! If your favorite vendor hasn’t signed up yet, encourage them to do so ASAP! 2024 Craft Show Vendor Registration.
2. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/26 Return your rented erg to the Woodson Rowing Erg Shed (back of school near senior parking) any time during a 8a-12p window. If you can, plan to stay for the Erg Shed Workday going on at the same time!
3. ONLY 6 GREEN DAYS LEFT! Including today’s Green Day, there are only 6 more opportunities to get some experience in the boats (or refresh your skills) until we officially go on-the-water in late February. Make sure you sign up for any and all days now! Green Days Sign Up Genius.
4. ARE YOU ON 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.
5. WHAT YOU NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN WOODSON ROWING Before the season even kicks off, we have Green Days, optional strength training and winter conditioning. If you are interested in trying out Woodson Rowing, here’s what you need:
B. Complete Woodson Athletics Registration (this is separate from the rowing team registration that will come closer to the season start)
C. Pass a swim test with Woodson Rowing. If you are a new athlete and have not done a swim test, please reach out to [email protected] to be placed on a list for future swim tests. We will have another round of swim tests in the fall/winter before on-the-water practices begin in late February.
Still feeling unsure? Check out the 2024 Parent Info Session Slides to see what the season is all about. Please also check out the Novice Tips page crafted by parent, Cindy Tomlinson to learn more about what the first year looks like.
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/
We have many volunteer opportunities that are on the horizon. Please sign up for any and all opportunities you (and your athlete) are available for. They are a great way to get to know other families on the team and to help the team kick off the season! Don’t feel intimidated or worried about not knowing how to do things – there will be plenty of experienced folks there to guide you. Get out of your comfort zone and volunteer now!!
1. CURRENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES – PLEASE SIGN UP NOW! A. 2 MORE FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 B. HELP VASRA REBUILD DOCKS, SAT 10/19 and SAT 10/26 C. EVERYONE IS NEEDED FOR TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 D. HELP MAKE THE 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW A SUCCESS, SAT 11/9
2. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/26
3. NO OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING ON MON, OCT 14
4. REMINDER RE: GREEN DAYS
5. ARE YOU ON SLACK?
6. WHAT YOU NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN WOODSON ROWING
7. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
ACTION ITEMS Please sign up for any and all volunteer opportunities you can!
CURRENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES – PLEASE SIGN UP NOW! Listed below are all the current volunteering needs we have, but all of our volunteering opportunities are always just a click away on our volunteering page. Visit and bookmark the site to stay up-to-date on how you can help the team!
A. 2 MORE FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 Big thank you to all the folks that have already signed up to work the concession stand at the Woodson Homecoming football game! We still have 2 spots in the 2nd shift (8:00-9:45 PM) available. This is a fun opportunity to get some volunteer credits early, meet some other parents on the team AND get to watch the game. Sign up here: Football Concessions Sign Up.
B. HELP VASRA REBUILD DOCKS, SAT 10/19 and SAT 10/26 VASRA has asked for help in rebuilding docks at Sandy Run! No experience necessary, but know that this is a labor intensive job. Wearing CLOSED-TOE, sturdy shoes is a MUST. Make sure you note your affiliation with Woodson when you sign up: VASRA Dock Work Days.
(Note: Tag Days should be the priority on Oct 26, but if you have multiple family members that want to help crank out most of your volunteer credits in one weekend – divide and conquer!)
C. EVERYONE IS NEEDED FOR TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 We are still in need of LOTS of athletes and parent drivers for both Tag Days. This is THE opportunity for novice athletes to spend the day with varsity athletes! Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Stay tuned for more information as the dates get closer, but if you have general questions please see our Tag Days webpage for information.
D. HELP MAKE THE 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW A SUCCESS, SAT 11/9 Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8. In past years, we have had 100+ vendors and 2000+ shoppers!! We need lots of help to make this very popular regional show (that is also an important fundraiser for our team) a success. You can help set up, provide baked goods, and get to know vendors on the day of the event. Sign up to help here: Craft Show Volunteer Sign Up.
2. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/26 Return your rented erg to the Woodson Rowing Erg Shed (back of school near senior parking) any time during a 8a-12p window. If you can, plan to stay for the Erg Shed Workday going on at the same time!
3. NO OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING ON MON, OCT 14 There will NOT be optional strength training on Monday, October 14 because of the teacher workday. There WILL be a Green Day, however. So, plan to come to green days since you’ll have all day to catch up on school work. Sign up here: Green Days Sign Up
4. REMINDER RE: GREEN DAYS When in doubt about whether a Green Day is happening or not, you should first check the Sign Up Genius to see if the date is listed. If the date is listed but you’re concerned about cancellation, check the #general channel in Slack for any last minute changes.
NOVICES: you should come to ALL the green days you can for the rest of the month! You are not limited to attending on Mondays. The coaches prefer that a novice come to their FIRST green day on a Monday so that they can give them ample orientation time. After that, please attend any or all days you can to get more experience in a boat.
There WILL be Green Day on Monday, 10/14 since that is a teacher workday and not a holiday.
5. ARE YOU ON 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. WHAT YOU NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN WOODSON ROWING Before the season even kicks off, we have Green Days, optional strength training and winter conditioning. If you are interested in trying out Woodson Rowing, here’s what you need:
B. Complete Woodson Athletics Registration (this is separate from the rowing team registration that will come closer to the season start)
C. Pass a swim test with Woodson Rowing. If you are a new athlete and have not done a swim test, please reach out to [email protected] to be placed on a list for future swim tests. We will have another round of swim tests in the fall/winter before on-the-water practices begin in late February.
Still feeling unsure? Check out the 2024 Parent Info Session Slides to see what the season is all about. Please also check out the Novice Tips page crafted by parent, Cindy Tomlinson to learn more about what the first year looks like.
7. 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/
CONGRATULATIONS to the athletes that passed the second swim test. Keep reading for more pre-season information and volunteer opportunities!
1. CLARITY ON GREEN DAYS
2. JOIN SLACK
3. WHAT YOU NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN WOODSON ROWING
4. WE NEED YOUR HELP! A. 2 MORE FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 B. 3 SPOTS AVAILABLE FOR ERG SHED WORKDAY, SAT 10/26 C. SIGN UP NOW FOR TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 D. HELP MAKE THE 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW A SUCCESS!
5. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
ACTION ITEMS 1. Join our Slack Community 2. Review Volunteer Opportunities and Sign Up!
1. CLARITY ON GREEN DAYS When in doubt about whether a Green Day is happening or not, you should first check the Sign Up Genius to see if the date is listed. If the date is listed but you’re concerned about cancellation, check the #general channel in Slack for any last minute changes.
NOVICES: you should come to ALL the green days you can for the rest of the month! You are not limited to attending on Mondays. The coaches prefer that a novice come to their FIRST green day on a Monday so that they can give them ample orientation time. After that, please attend any or all days you can to get more experience in a boat.
There WILL be Green Day on Monday, 10/14 since that is a teacher workday and not a holiday.
2. 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.
3. WHAT YOU NEED TO PARTICIPATE IN WOODSON ROWING Before the season even kicks off, we have Green Days, optional strength training and winter conditioning. If you (or a friend! Keep up the recruiting!!) are interested in trying out Woodson Rowing, here’s what you need:
B. Complete Woodson Athletics Registration (this is separate from the rowing team registration that will come closer to the season start)
C. Pass a swim test with Woodson Rowing. If you are a new athlete and have not done a swim test, please reach out to [email protected] to be placed on a list for future swim tests. We will have another round of swim tests in the fall/winter before on-the-water practices begin in late February.
Still feeling unsure? Check out the 2024 Parent Info Session Slides to see what the season is all about. Please also check out the Novice Tips page crafted by parent, Cindy Tomlinson to learn more about what the first year looks like.
4. WE NEED YOUR HELP! Listed below are all the current volunteering needs we have, but all of our volunteering opportunities are always just a click away on our volunteering page. Visit and bookmark the site to stay up-to-date on how you can help the team!
A. 2 MORE FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 Big thank you to all the folks that have already signed up to work the concession stand at the Woodson Homecoming football game! We still have 2 spots in the 2nd shift (8:00-9:45 PM) available. This is a fun opportunity to get some volunteer credits early, meet some other parents on the team AND get to watch the game. Sign up here: Football Concessions Sign Up.
B. 3 SPOTS AVAILABLE FOR ERG SHED WORKDAY, SAT 10/26 Yes – this is the same day as Tag Day. Athletes should plan to return their erg and then join Tag Days. Parents – if you’re not driving for Tag Day, please stick around to help with the erg shed workday. Many hands make light work for servicing these critical pieces of equipment!! Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot). Erg Shed Workday Sign Up
C. SIGN UP NOW FOR TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 We are still in need of LOTS of athletes and parent drivers for both Tag Days. This is a great opportunity for novice athletes to spend the day with varsity athletes! Tag Days are the Woodson Rowing team’s most important fundraiser of the year. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Stay tuned for more information as the dates get closer, but if you have general questions please see our Tag Days webpage for information.
D. HELP MAKE THE 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW A SUCCESS! Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8. In past years, we have had 100+ vendors and 2000+ shoppers!! We need lots of help to make this very popular regional show (that is also an important fundraiser for our team) a success. You can help set up, provide baked goods, and get to know vendors on the day of the event. Sign up to help here: Craft Show Volunteer Sign Up.
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/
OCTOBER:
Mon, 10/7: Strength Training at Woodson, 6:30a Green Days at Sandy Run, 4:45p
CONGRATULATIONS to the athletes that passed the first swim test last Saturday! As long as you have a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept and have filled out the Woodson Athletics Registration, you can now participate in optional on-the-water sessions! Your first day attending should be a Monday so that you can receive an initial orientation. After that, come to any and as many days as your schedule allows. Go to our website to sign up and for more information: Green Days
1. SLACK – WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO I NEED IT?
2. ARE YOU GETTING THIS NEWSLETTER VIA E-MAIL?
3. NEXT SWIM TEST, SATURDAY 9/28
4. SLIDES FROM PARENT & ATHLETE INFO SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
5. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES! A. LAST FALL VASRA WORKDAY, 9/28 B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 C. **DATE CHANGE & URGENT NEED** RENTAL ERG RETURN & WORKDAY, SAT 10/26 D. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 E. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/9
6. GREEN DAYS & OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING ARE ONGOING
7. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
ACTION ITEMS 1. Join our Slack Community 2. Review Volunteer Opportunities and Sign Up!
1. SLACK – WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO I NEED IT? If you recently received an invitation to join Slack – DO NOT DELETE IT. It’s legit! If you attended the parent/athlete information meeting on Tuesday 9/24, you should have an invite waiting for you already. Please check your spam folder. If there is nothing there, reach out to our communications team to learn more or to receive an invitation link.
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.
2. ARE YOU GETTING THIS NEWSLETTER VIA E-MAIL? If you’re getting this newsletter via email, then just skip to the next item! If you are not getting this email, there are 2 possible problems: (1) your email address is not associated with a Google account. Since we use Google Groups to manage the distribution of this newsletter, users MUST have their email associated with a Google Account. (2) your Google Group Subscription settings have email turned off
Either problem is easily remedied. Please see this Google Support page to get started. If you continue to have problems, reach out to [email protected].
3. NEXT SWIM TEST, SATURDAY 9/28 If you are interested in trying out Woodson Rowing, please set aside 11a-12p on Saturday,9/28 to come take a swim test. This test is only required for new recruits – if you have previously taken a swim test with Woodson Rowing, you are not required to do so again. The swim test will begin promptly at 11a at Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA.
NOTE: We need a parent volunteer to help with logistics!! If you haven’t yet, let us know you’re coming by signing up here: Swim Test Sign Up.
If you are a new athlete and were/are NOT able to make last week’s swim test or the one this Saturday, please reach out to [email protected] to be placed on a list for future swim tests. We will have another round of swim tests in the fall before on-the-water practices begin.
4. SLIDES FROM PARENT & ATHLETE INFO SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p Thank you to all who were able to come by the Parent & Athlete information session on Tuesday! If you weren’t able to make it or just want a refresher, you can find the slide deck here: 2024 Parent Info Session Slides.
Also, a new addition to our website is the Novice Tips page crafted by parent, Cindy Tomlinson. If you’re curious about the experience of a first time parent on Woodson Rowing, check it out!
5. VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES! As was discussed in the parent information meeting, here a a recap of the volunteer requirements for the 2024-2025 season:
Rest assured that the vast majority of families meet or exceed their volunteer commitments. Should you have questions or concerns about your ability to meet the volunteer requirements, reach out to Lisa Veigel, our Volunteer Coordinator. But also remember that there are many ways to earn your credits. Most volunteer responsibilities require NO prior experience or information. Volunteering helps the team to run efficiently and effectively AND is a great way to get to know each other.
Listed below are all the current volunteering needs we have, but all of our volunteering opportunities are always just a click away on our website. Visit and bookmark our volunteering page to stay up-to-date on how you can help the team!
A. LAST FALL VASRA WORKDAY, 9/28 Slots are still available for 9/21 and 9/28. We’ve only had 2 families show up so far and each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day; e.g. 4 or more Woodson volunteers total. No experience necessary. Most of the activities are messy and dirty. Dress in your worst gardening gear, but make sure to have fully covered shoes, not flip flops. Make sure you note your affiliation with Woodson when you sign up: VASRA Work Days Sign Up
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 Every team at Woodson is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Woodson Rowing has been assigned to staff concessions for the homecoming football game on Fri., October 18. There are two shifts – 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.
C. **DATE CHANGE & URGENT NEED** RENTAL ERG RETURN & WORKDAY, SAT 10/26 Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 8a-12p. Yes – this is the same day as Tag Day. Athletes should plan to return their erg and then join Tag Days. Parents – if you’re not driving for Tag Day, please stick around to help with the erg shed workday. Many hands make light work for servicing these critical pieces of equipment!! Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot).Erg Shed Workday Sign Up
D. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 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 26 and Saturday, November 2 as our authorized Tag Days. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Stay tuned for more information as the dates get closer, but if you have general questions please see our Tag Days webpage for information.
E. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/9 Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8 and we will need all hands on deck to make it a success! Helping out at set-up, the day of, and SHOPPING are all ways to help out this large fundraiser for our team. Sign up to help here: Craft Show Volunteer Sign Up.
We are always looking for new and returning VENDORS for the Craft Show! Please contact any artisans/crafters/makers in your life and let them know you’d love to see their wares on site at Woodson. Vendors can register here: 2024 Craft Show Vendor Registration.
6. GREEN DAYS & OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING ARE ONGOING All athletes MUST have a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept and have filled out the Woodson Athletics Registration in order to participate in training with Woodson Rowing. In addition, athletes must have completed a swim test to participate in Green Days. Visit our website for more information. Note: There is no Green Day on Thursday, October 3 because of the school holiday.
7. 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/
Take dinner off your plate. Place your order at Noodles and Co. online or in person. Your purchase benefits YOU and the team! More info below.
1. GREEN DAYS & OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING ARE ONGOING
2. SWIM TEST THIS SATURDAY, 9/21
3. PARENT & ATHLETE INFO SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
4. ACTIVITY BUS DRIVERS NEEDED
5. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED A. VASRA WORKDAYS, 9/21 and 9/28 B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 C. RENTAL ERG RETURN & WORKDAY, SAT 10/19 D. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 E. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/9
6. GENERAL WOODSON SPORTS NEWS A. BOOSTER PASSES STILL AVAILABLE B. GOLF TOURNAMENT, 9/23
7. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
ACTION ITEMS
Get dinner at Noodles and Co. TONIGHT!
Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.
1. GREEN DAYS & OPTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING ARE ONGOING
Thank you to all the interested athletes who have already signed up! This is for new recruits only – if you have previously taken a swim test with Woodson Rowing, you are not required to do so again. The swim test will begin promptly at 11a at Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA. If you haven’t yet, let us know you’re coming by signing up here: Swim Test Sign Up.
3. PARENT & ATHLETE INFO SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 24 in Woodson Cafe A, starting at 7:30p. The Board will be hosting a meeting for families (new and returning) to learn about the upcoming season, go over dues, transportation, winter conditioning, uniforms and preview what happens on the water in the spring. Coaches and board members will be in attendance to answer any questions you might have. Bring anyone who is interested in learning more about our sport.
In advance, feel free to review the proposed by-laws for our organization, sent out via email on 9/10. One of our orders of business will be to vote on the new by-laws.
4. ACTIVITY BUS DRIVERS NEEDED
One of the biggest challenges with rowing in this area is getting the athletes to and from the water safely! FCPS school buses are available for the team’s use (think transportation to practice every day in the spring), IF we are able to find an Activities Bus Driver. To be an FCPS approved Activities Bus Driver, you must pass the Fairfax County Bus Driver Training and then pick Woodson Rowing as your activity of choice. The driver would be paid by FCPS AND the team will offer additional compensation. If you’re already qualified or interested in becoming an Activity Bus Driver, please contact Woodson Rowing Activities.
5. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
A. VASRA WORKDAYS, 9/21 and 9/28 Slots are still available for 9/21 and 9/28. We’ve only had 2 families show up so far and each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day; e.g. 4 or more Woodson volunteers total. No experience necessary. Most of the activities are messy and dirty. Dress in your worst gardening gear, but make sure to have fully covered shoes, not flip flops. Make sure you note your affiliation with Woodson when you sign u: VASRA Work Days Sign Up
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 Every team at Woodson is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Woodson Rowing has been assigned to staff concessions for the homecoming football game on Fri., October 18. There are two shifts – 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.
C. RENTAL ERG RETURN & WORKDAY, SAT 10/19 Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 10a-12p. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot).Stick around to help with the erg shed workday and get some volunteer credits started OR, if you’re new to the team this is a great opportunity to get familiar with one of the critical pieces of equipment used by rowing teams! Erg Shed Workday Sign Up
D. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 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 26 and Saturday, November 2 as our authorized Tag Days. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Stay tuned for more information as the dates get closer, but if you have general questions please see our Tag Days webpage for information.
Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8 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. Helping out at set-up, the day of, and SHOPPING are all ways to help out this large fundraiser for our team.
We are always looking for new and returning VENDORS for the Craft Show! Please 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: 2024 Craft Show Vendor Registration.
6. GENERAL WOODSON SPORTS NEWS
A. BOOSTER PASSES STILL AVAILABLE If you plan on attending 10 or more games throughout the 2024-2025 school year, then the Booster Pass is a great savings for you and your family. Purchase your Booster Pass here.
B. GOLF TOURNAMENT, 9/23 Woodson Athletic Boosters is putting on a Golf Tournament on Monday, September 23rd! Visit here to get more information on sponsorship opportunities and registration.Questions? Contact Booster President David Marks at [email protected].
7. 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.
SEPTEMBER:
Mondays and Thursdays: Green Days at Sandy Run, 4:45p
Mondays and Wednesdays: optional strength training at Woodson, 6:15-7:30a
Thu, 9/19: Noodles & Co. fundraiser, 4-8p
Sat, 9/21: Swim test for new athletes, 11a-12p at Audrey Moore Rec
Green days have begun! Remember, to participate in Green Days, morning strength training, and winter conditioning (when it comes around), you MUST have a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept and have filled out the Woodson Athletics Registration. (You also need to have passed a swim test for Green Days). Don’t delay – the sooner you get this done the sooner you can do all the fun stuff!
1. OPTIONAL MORNING STRENGTH TRAINING BEGINS NEXT WEEK
2. GREEN DAYS ARE ONGOING
3. RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER
4. NEW RECRUITS – SWIM TEST INFO
5. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
6. CARPOOLING WOES?
7. ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES! A. VASRA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, SATURDAYS IN SEPT B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 C. RENTAL ERG RETURN & WORKDAY, SAT 10/19 D. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2. SIGN UP NOW. E. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/9
8. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
1. OPTIONAL MORNING STRENGTH TRAINING BEGINS NEXT WEEK
Optional morning strength training will begin on Monday, September 16. Athletes interested in improving their strength by weight lifting can join optional workouts held in the weight room at Woodson Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:15-7:30 AM. Athletes MUST have a physical on file with the Woodson Athletic Dept and have filled out the Woodson Athletics Registration in order to participate.
2. GREEN DAYS ARE ONGOING
Follow our social media accounts to get some glimpses at what’s happening at Green Days. Visit our website for more information, to make sure you meet the requirements to join us, and to sign up: Green Days Info.
3. RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER
One of the “easy” ways Woodson Rowing raises money is through restaurant fundraisers. Participating makes it easy for you – since you don’t have to plan dinner – and you also help the team!
Our first fundraiser is next Thursday, September 19 from 4-8pm at Noodles & Company, 10296 Main Street. Valid for pickup, delivery and in-restaurant. Let’s make our first, of many, restaurant nights a successful one! Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.
Every new rower and coxswain is required to pass 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. Swim Tests are scheduled for September 21st and September 28 from 11a-12p at Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA.
5. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
On Tuesday you should have received an email with a link to the proposed by-laws for our organization. Please feel free to review prior to the meeting on 9/24 since one of our orders of business will be to vote on the new by-laws!
Make sure to mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 24 in Woodson Cafe A, starting at 7:30p. The meeting is for families (new and returning) to learn about the upcoming season, go over dues, transportation, winter conditioning, uniforms and preview what happens on the water in the spring. Coaches and board members will be in attendance to answer any questions you might have. Bring anyone who is interested in learning more about our sport.
6. CARPOOLING WOES?
One of the biggest challenges with rowing in this area is getting the athletes to and from the water safely! FCPS school buses are available for the team’s use (think transportation to practice every day in the spring), IF we are able to find an Activities Bus Driver. To be an FCPS approved Activities Bus Driver, you must pass the Fairfax County Bus Driver Training and then pick Woodson Rowing as your activity of choice. The driver would be paid by FCPS AND the team will offer additional compensation. If you’re already qualified or interested in becoming an Activity Bus Driver, please contact Woodson Rowing Activities.
7. ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES!
A. VASRA WORKDAYS VASRA needs our help! Get some volunteering in early and help prep the race course and surroundings for the upcoming season. No experience necessary. Most of the activities are messy and dirty. Dress in your worst gardening gear, but make sure to have fully covered shoes, not flip flops. Each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day; e.g. 4 or more Woodson volunteers total. Make sure you note your affiliation with Woodson when you sign up here: VASRA Work Days Sign Up
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, FRI 10/18 Every team at Woodson is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Woodson Rowing has been assigned to staff concessions for the homecoming football game on Fri., October 18. There are two shifts – 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.
C. RENTAL ERG RETURN & WORKDAY, SAT 10/19 Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 10a-12p. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot).Stick around to help with the erg shed workday and get some volunteer credits started OR, if you’re new to the team this is a great opportunity to get familiar with one of the critical pieces of equipment used by rowing teams! Erg Shed Workday Sign Up
D. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2 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 26 and Saturday, November 2 as our authorized Tag Days. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Stay tuned for more information as the dates get closer, but if you have general questions please see our Tag Days webpage for information.
E. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/9 Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8 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. Helping out at set-up, the day of, and SHOPPING are all ways to help out this large fundraiser for our team.
We are always looking for new and returning VENDORS for the Craft Show! Please 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: 2024 Craft Show Vendor Registration.
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.
SEPTEMBER: Mondays and Thursdays: Green Days at Sandy Run, 4:45p Mondays and Wednesdays: optional strength training at Woodson, 6:15-7:30a
Welcome to a special edition of our newsletter where we will discuss how we are “governed” and provide some proposed by-laws which will be voted on at the in-person meeting scheduled for Tue, 9/24 at 7:30p in Woodson Cafe A.
1. PROPOSED NEW BY-LAWS
2. WAIT. WHAT AND WHO ARE “THE BOARD”?
2. WHY DOES A HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS TEAM NEED A BOARD OF DIRECTORS?
3. WHY DOES THIS MATTER TO ME?
4. OK, COOL. BUT WHY DOES THAT MATTER?
5. QUESTIONS?
6. REGULAR BUSINESS
1. PROPOSED NEW BY-LAWS
The members of the Board of Directors would like to propose revised by-laws to be approved by the membership. Pursuant to Article IX: Section 2 of the current by-laws, please consider this newsletter to provide notice that a general membership meeting will take place on September 24, 2024 at 7:30p in Woodson Cafe A. While the primary purpose of the meeting is to discuss the upcoming season, part of that meeting will include a discussion and vote on the revised by-laws, which can be viewed here: Proposed by-laws.
Changes proposed include, but are not limited to:
Change the legal name to C.G. Woodson High School Rowing Program and clarify operating under names
Add a non-voting Senior VP position to the Executive Board and formally add the Booster Liaison and Webmaster as members of the Board of Directors
Change the title of the VP of Team Liaison and Activities to “VP Activities”
Change the notice requirement in Article IX: Section 2 from 2 weeks to 1 week
2. WAIT. WHAT AND WHO ARE “THE BOARD”?
The Woodson Crew Boosters Association (aka “the Association”) is an incorporated, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) that was established to support the Woodson Rowing Program. The Association is governed through formal by-laws. The Association is managed by a Board of Directors made up of Officers (the Executive Committee) and Committee Chairpersons (aka “the Board”).
Members of the Board of Directors are elected by voting members of the Association at the Annual Association Meeting held in late spring. Here are the current board members and their positions, as voted upon and approved at the last parent meeting of the 23-24 school year:
2. WHY DOES A HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS TEAM NEED A BOARD OF DIRECTORS?
Woodson Rowing is a varsity sport at Woodson High School, but we do not receive funding from Fairfax County Public Schools or Woodson High School. As a result, we have some oversight from the high school, but are managed by the Woodson Crew Booster Association. The Woodson Crew Boosters is an all-volunteer, parent-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Board of Directors responsibilities include, but are not limited to, hiring coaches, fundraising, financial management, logistical support, the purchase and maintenance of program equipment, and, of course, staffing the Woodson Rowing cheering section at regattas. The Board is NOT a supervisory body responsible for the day to day management of the coaching staff, training program, or student-athlete boat assignments.
3. WHY DOES THIS MATTER TO ME?
Well – as a family or athlete who is interested in participating in Woodson Rowing, you’re part of the Woodson Crew Boosters Association! Voting members of the Association include parents/guardians of Woodson Rowing student-athletes. Non-voting members include, but are not limited to, the Woodson coaching staff, the Principal, and the Director of Student Activities (DSA).
4. OK, COOL. BUT WHY DOES THAT MATTER?
Part of the business of the Association is to review and update the by-laws that govern us. The by-laws were last updated in 2018 – so it’s time for some small revisions as noted above. According to Article XXI, Section 1 of the current by-laws:
Section 1. These By-Laws may be altered, amended or repealed, or new By-Laws may be adopted by the vote of two-thirds of those members present at any regular or special meeting of the general membership, provided notice of such alteration, amendment, repeal or adoption of new By-Laws be contained in the notice of such meeting.
So, that’s what we are doing with this special newsletter! We’re providing notice of:
Recommended amendments to the by-laws
The date, time and location of our next general membership meeting! (Reminder: Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 7:30p in Woodson Cafe A). This meeting is in conjunction with the parent and athlete information session.
5. QUESTIONS?
Any questions, comments or concerns re: the Proposed by-laws should be directed to the Booster Board President at [email protected].
6. REGULAR BUSINESS
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
RECRUITMENT:
Direct interested athletes and their parents to our interest form or have them send an email to our membership team at: [email protected].
Welcome to the Woodson Rowing newsletter! We know that a lot of this information can be overwhelming to receive when crew is a “spring sport” – especially if this will be your first season with us. We encourage you to just dive right in and get involved!! This newsletter and our website and social media accounts are great sources of information, but do not hesitate to email Woodson Rowing Membership if you have more questions on how and why to get involved early!
1. SPORTS PHYSICALS AND WOODSON ATHLETICS REGISTRATION
2. SAVE THE DATES & MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
A. GREEN DAYS START ON MONDAY 9/9!! SIGN UP NOW!
B. NOODLES & CO. RESTAURANT NIGHT, THU 9/19, 4-8p
C. NEW RECRUIT SWIM TEST, SAT 9/21 and SAT 9/28, 11a-12p. SIGN UP NOW.
D. PARENT & ATHLETE ORIENTATION/INFORMATION SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
E. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/19, 10a-12p
F. TAG DAYS, SAT 10/26 and SAT 11/2. SIGN UP NOW.
G. 31st ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW, SAT 11/9
3. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
A. VASRA CLEAN-UP DAYS, SAT 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, & 9/28
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS, FRI 10/18
C. ERG SHED WORKDAY, SAT 10/19, 10a-1p
4. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
WAIT – THERE’S MORE?
ACTION ITEMS
Sign up for: – Green Days (starting on Monday, 9/9!!) – Swim Test (if you’re a new athlete, 9/21 or 9/28) – Tag Days (10/26 and 11/2) (we need A LOT more folks signed up for these to be a success – commit now and mark your calendars.!)
1. SPORTS PHYSICALS AND WOODSON ATHLETICS REGISTRATION
Remember that all athletes need a 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!
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. Visit our website for more information, to make sure you meet the requirements to join us, and to sign up: Green Days Info.
B. NOODLES & CO. RESTAURANT NIGHT, THU 9/19, 4-8p
Feed friends and family all while benefiting the team on Thursday, September 19 from 4-8pm at Noodles & Company, 10296 Main Street. Valid for pickup, delivery and in-restaurant. Let’s make our first, of many, restaurant nights a successful one! Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.
C. NEW RECRUIT SWIM TEST, SAT 9/21 and SAT 9/28, 11a-12p. SIGN UP NOW.
Every new rower and coxswain is required to pass 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. Swim Tests are scheduled for September 21st and September 28 from 11a-12p at Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA. Let us know you’re coming by signing up here: Swim Test Sign Up.
D. PARENT & ATHLETE ORIENTATION/INFORMATION SESSION, TUES 9/24, 7:30p
New and returning parents and athletes, join us for an information session on the 2024-2025 season of Woodson Rowing, Tuesday, September 24 in Woodson Cafe A, starting at 7:30p. 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.
E. RENTAL ERG RETURN, SAT 10/19, 10a-12p
Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 10a-12p. Location will be the erg shed at the back of the school (near the senior parking lot).Stick around to help with the erg shed workday and get some volunteer credits started! Erg Shed Workday Sign Up
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 26 and Saturday, November 2 as our authorized Tag Days. Please sign up here – we need all hands on deck to make this event work!! Stay tuned for more information as the dates get closer, but if you have general questions please see our Tag Days webpage for information.
Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 8 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. Helping out at set-up, the day of, and SHOPPING are all ways to help out this large fundraiser for our team.
We are always looking for new and returning VENDORS for the Craft Show! Please 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: 2024 Craft Show Vendor Registration.
3. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Volunteering is a necessary part of keeping our team running efficiently and links us to the greater rowing community in the area. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY for any of the volunteer opportunities we have. There are (and will be) options for every schedule and every skill level. Never tried a particular task before? No worries – there will always be people on hand to guide and help. Remember, many hands make light work. Now, let’s get to it!
A. VASRA CLEAN-UP DAYS, SAT 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, & 9/28
VASRA needs our help! Get some volunteering in early and help prep the race course and surroundings for the upcoming season. No experience necessary. Most of the activities are messy and dirty. Dress in your worst gardening gear, but make sure to have fully covered shoes, not flip flops. Each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day; e.g. 4 or more Woodson volunteers total. Make sure you note your affiliation with Woodson when you sign up here: VASRA Work Days Sign Up
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS, FRI 10/18
Each season, Woodson Crew is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Woodson Rowing is responsible for staffing concessions for the homecoming football game on Fri., October 18. There are two shifts – 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.
C. ERG SHED WORKDAY, SAT 10/19, 10a-1p
This is for you ESPECIALLY if you rented an erg for use over the winter! Turn in your erg and then help service all of our units – and get the erg shed cleaned up and in order before winter conditioning kicks off. Saturday, October 19 from 10a-1p. Sign up here: Erg Shed Workday Sign Up.
4. CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
This calendar is constantly updated as events are added. Scroll here for a quick rundown of what’s up and coming. Where relevant and/or available, links are provided for more information.
