Email updates

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Oct 2, 2023: TAG DAY SPECIAL – We need your help!

SPECIAL EDITION NEWSLETTER ON OUR UPCOMING TAG DAY!

Our first Tag Day is coming this weekend. Here’s the 411 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. WHERE DO I SIGN UP?
2. WHEN IS TAG DAY?
3. WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE ALL DAY?
4. WHAT EXACTLY IS TAG DAY?
5. GENERAL TIMELINE OF EVENTS
6. WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
7. WHY TAG DAYS?

1. WHERE DO I SIGN UP?

Click this link to SIGN UP NOW! (Using the sign up genius allows parent volunteers to PRE-ASSIGN groups to routes… if you “just show up” you will likely spend time waiting for a route/driver assignment instead of heading out). The more participants we have, the more quickly canvassing can be completed.

2. WHEN IS TAG DAY?

Tag Days have been divided up into TWO FULL DAY (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) events. The first day is THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7. The second day is Saturday, November 11.

3. WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE ALL DAY?

We will need your help! While we are hoping for everyone to participate for the full day, if you can only make the morning or after shift, please note that in the comments on the sign up genius. The AM shift will run from approximately 8:45a – noon. The PM shift will run from approximately noon – 3:30p. 

4. WHAT EXACTLY IS 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.

5. GENERAL TIMELINE OF EVENTS

6. WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?¶

ATHLETES

  • MUST BRING this form signed by your parents
  • A refillable water bottle. Stay hydrated and then you’ll have water at lunch.
  • A positive attitude!
  • WTW Crew Spiritwear, if you have it. A limited amount of spiritwear will be available to borrow for the day, should you wish.
  • Water

PARENTS

  • ALL DRIVERS must fill out this form to transport student athletes.
  • 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.

7. WHY 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.
  • For more information and a direct donation link, visit our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/tag-days/

So, what are you waiting for? SIGN UP NOW!

Don’t forget to follow us on Social Media!

Posted on

Sep 28, 2023 Email Update

We had a great turn out at the parent and athlete interest meeting last night. See below for a link to the slides if you missed the presentation.

1. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION SLIDES
2. GREEN DAYS ARE IN FULL SWING
3. *CHECK THIS OUT* EARN VOLUNTEER CREDITS NOW!
● Saturday 9/30 THRU Saturday, 11/4: CRAFT SHOW
● Friday, 10/6: FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS
● Saturday, 10/7: TAG DAY
● Saturday, 10/28: ERG SHED WORK DAY
● Sunday, 10/29: BOATHOUSE CLEAN-UP DAY
● Saturday, 11/11: TAG DAY
4. ERG RENTAL RETURN, SAT. 10/28, 10a-1p
5. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE
6. THERE’S MORE?

ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK
Check out all the volunteer opportunities below and sign up!

1. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION SLIDES

There was an excellent turn out for the parent and athlete information session last night. If you missed the meeting but want to know what was covered, you can find a copy of the slides here: Fall 2023 Info Session Slides. Questions can be directed to the Board President at [email protected]

2. GREEN DAYS ARE IN FULL SWING

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. Green days begin September 26 and will take place on Tuesdays (4:30-6:30p), Thursdays (4:30-6:30p), and Saturdays (8:00-10:30a). SIGN UP HERE

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

If you are a first-time athlete and have NOT completed a swim test with Woodson Crew, please contact Jenn Ros at [email protected].

If you have never been on the water in a Woodson Crew boat, try to register for your first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation to Woodson Crew. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. All sessions are at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA).

3. *CHECK THIS OUT* EARN VOLUNTEER CREDITS NOW!

Questions about your volunteering commitments? Can’t find your newsletter email to know what opportunities are available? Bookmark this webpage so you can always be on top of the volunteer opportunities needed!

For ease, here’s a list of current volunteer opportunities. Click the links to access the various sign up geniuses and do your part! More information on each volunteer opportunity is below:

Friday, 10/6: FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS: Football Concession Sign Up. Each season, Woodson Crew is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Our date is October 6th. There are two shifts to volunteer – 6:15-8:00 and 8:00-9:45 PM. We need 9 volunteers for each shift. Get your volunteer credits early with this fun opportunity (AND get to watch the game)! 

Saturday 10/7 and Saturday 11/11: TAG DAYS: Tag Day Sign Up. We need ALL ATHLETES AND PARENTS on deck for our BIGGEST fundraiser of the year. In past years, our athletes have successfully solicited upwards of $20,000 across the 2 days. So, while it might seem a time-consuming event, it helps keep YOUR registration costs down, pay the coaches and maintain our equipment. In addition, a full day of volunteering fulfills TWO of your athlete and/or parent volunteer requirements. For more information and a direct donation link, visit our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/tag-days/

Saturday, 10/28, 10a-1p: ERG SHED WORK DAY: Erg Shed Work Day Sign Up. Planned for the same day and time as rental erg drop-off, to make the most of our time! With guidance, help clean the ergs and make sure they are ready for winter conditioning. In addition, it would be very helpful to have anyone with woodworking experience available to help repair the erg shed ramp. 

Sunday, 10/29, 9-11a: BOATHOUSE WORK DAY: Boathouse Work Day Sign Up. Help the team winterize our launches and boathouse. Great opportunity for you to see the inner workings up close and appreciate the scale of things once the spring season begins. This is critical work to enable the team to begin practice in the spring with well maintained equipment!

Friday 11/3 & Saturday 11/4:  THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW: Craft Show Sign Up. This is another ALL HANDS ON DECK volunteer opportunity. Both parents and athletes are needed to make this a success. After you select your volunteer job, please consider helping us spread the word using one (or more) of the options below!

  • SHARE: please share the event page to your networks such as your neighborhood Next Door, Facebook Groups you’re a part of, or even just on your own social media. Make sure you also follow the crew team on social media because we already have other content ready for you to share!
  • POST: If you would like to post signs in your yards (preferable on a well-traveled street), contact [email protected] to request a sign.
  • ASK: See if merchants that you frequent will put up flyers in store windows, bulletin boards, etc. Feel free to print yourself (Full page flyer / Half page flyer) or contact fundraising at [email protected] for copies.
  • RECRUIT:  We always have a pressing need for 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. OR  – maybe it’s time you follow that dream of making beautiful hats or jewelry. Let us be your foray into the craft world! All Vendors can sign up here: 2023 Craft Show Vendor Registration.

4. ERG RENTAL RETURN, SAT. 10/28, 10a-1p

Return your rented erg to the Woodson Crew Erg Shed (back of school near senior parking) any time during a 10a-1p window. If you can, plan to stay for the Erg Shed Workday going on at the same time!

5. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE

SEPTEMBER:

  • Green Days beginning 9/26: Every T/Th 4:30-6:30p, Sat 8:00-10:30a

OCTOBER:

NOVEMBER:

  • Fri. 11/3: Set up for the craft show
  • Sat. 11/4: 30th Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p. Volunteer and shop! 
  • Tue. 11/7: Wendy’s restaurant fundraiser, ALL DAY LONG!
  • Sat. 11/11: 2nd Tag Day
  • Thu. 11/16: Winter Conditioning begins. More info to follow.

FEBRUARY 2024

  • Wed. 2/21: On-the-water practice begins. Pull for Woodson!

6. THERE’S MORE?

RECRUITING: Our best source of new recruits is YOU! Use this QR code to help direct interested athletes. Questions? Email [email protected].

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP: Stay tuned for exciting new opportunities for corporate sponsorship. In the meantime, if you know of any companies or organizations that would be interested in helping Woodson Crew stay the amazing program that it is, contact Ana at [email protected].

REMINISCE AND LOOK THE PART: Share team photos! Downloading is free. Also, show your spirit! Our team store is open year-round.

STAY IN THE KNOW: Join the newsletter (email [email protected]) and Follow us on Social Media!

Posted on

Sep 21, 2023 Email Update

Read on to find out how you can help usher in the start to an amazing season. Remember, you can always visit our newsletter archives to catch up on what you might have missed.

1. RESTAURANT NIGHT TONIGHT!!!!!! NOODLES & CO. 4-8p
2. GREEN DAYS START 9/26!
3. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, 9/27
4. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: 10/6 FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS
5. **NEW** TAG DAYS 10/7 and 11/11
6. THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW
7. ALL THINGS ERG RELATED
8. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE
9. KEEP UP-TO-DATE AND SPREAD THE WORD!
10. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK

1. RESTAURANT NIGHT TONIGHT!!!!!! NOODLES & CO. 4-8p
Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.

2. GREEN DAYS START 9/26!
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. Green days begin September 26 and will take place on Tuesdays (4:30-6:30p), Thursdays (4:30-6:30p), and Saturdays (8:00-10:30a). SIGN UP HERE

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

If you are a first-time athlete and have NOT completed a swim test with Woodson Crew, please contact Jenn Ros at [email protected].

If you have never been on the water in a Woodson Crew boat, try to register for your first day on the water on a TUESDAY in order to receive a more thorough orientation to Woodson Crew. After your first day, you are welcome to come on any and all days that fit your schedule.

Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. All sessions are at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA).


3. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, 9/27
Returning and new parents and athletes, join us for an information session on the 2023-2024 season of Woodson Crew. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, Woodson Cafe B, 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.4. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: 10/6 FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS

Each season, Woodson Crew is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Our date is October 6th. There are two shifts to volunteer – 6:15-8:00 and 8:00-9:45 PM. We need 9 volunteers for each shift. Get your volunteer credits early with this fun opportunity (AND get to watch the game)! Sign up here!


5. **NEW** TAG DAYS 10/7 and 11/11
Tag days are Saturday, October 7 and Saturday, November 11 this year. We need all athletes AND parents on deck to make this event a success! On Tag Days, athletes are transported (by volunteer parents) to local neighborhoods. They walk door to door to let Woodson families know about the sport of rowing, how we receive no FCPS funds and therefore rely on dues and donations — and then ask for support. Parents and students, SIGN UP NOW!

Tag Days are our BIGGEST fundraiser of the year. In past years, our athletes have successfully solicited upwards of $20,000 across the 2 days. So, while it might seem a time-consuming event, it helps keep YOUR registration costs down, pay the coaches and maintain our equipment. In addition, a full day of volunteering fulfills TWO of your athlete and/or parent volunteer requirements. For more information and a direct donation link, visit our website: https://woodsonrowing.org/tag-days/


6. THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW
Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 10a-4p. WE NEED ALL HANDS ON DECK to make this event a success! Here’s what you can do to help:

  1. Volunteer at the show! This show is too big for just a few people to handle themselves. The income generated from the craft show each year helps our program stay afloat (see what I did there). Both parents and athletes are needed to make this a success. Do your part – sign up here!
  1. Spread the word! If you are on Facebook, please share the event page to all people you think might be interested in attending. If you have started holiday shopping this is the place to finish it or if you haven’t started, this is a great place to start!  You can also:
  • Post the details to Next Door or other community sites.
  • Post signs in your yards (preferable on a well-traveled street). These signs can be put up immediately (there is no county statute limiting or prohibiting temporary signs on personal property) so contact [email protected] to request a sign.
  • Ask merchants to put flyers in store windows, bulletin boards, etc.
  • Post flyers at area Rec Centers and Libraries.
  1. Recruit artisans/crafters/makers. We always have a pressing need for 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. OR  – maybe it’s time you follow that dream of making beautiful hats or jewelry. Let us be your foray into the craft world! All Vendors can sign up here: 2023 Craft Show Vendor Registration.


7. ALL THINGS ERG RELATED
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 28. Return your rented erg and help us clean and fix up the erg shed to get ready for winter conditioning. The cleanup takes place right after erg rental returns. Stay tuned for a sign up genius!


8. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE
SEPTEMBER:

  • Thu. 9/21: Noodles & Co. restaurant fundraiser, 4-8p
  • Tue. 9/26: Green Days begin at Sandy Run, 4:30p
  • Wed. 9/27: Parent & athlete information meeting, 7:30p, Woodson Cafe B

OCTOBER:

  • Fri. 10/6: Football Concessions Volunteering (parents only)
  • Sat. 10/7: First TAG DAY!
  • Tue. 10/10: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 5-9pm
  • Sat. 10/28: Erg return and Erg/Shed Workday (more info to come)
  • Sat. 10/28: Final Green Day, 8-10:30a

NOVEMBER:

  • Fri. 11/3: Set up for the craft show (more info to come)
  • Sat. 11/4: 30th Annual Craft Show, 10a-4p
  • Tue. 11/7: Wendy’s restaurant fundraiser, ALL DAY LONG!
  • Sat. 11/11: 2nd Tag Day

9. KEEP UP-TO-DATE AND SPREAD THE WORD!
Our best source of new recruits is YOU! Use this QR code to help direct interested athletes. Questions? Email [email protected].

  • Join the newsletter by sending an email to [email protected].
  • Reminisce and share team photos! Downloading is free.
  • Show your spirit! Our team store is open year-round. A portion of the proceeds goes directly to the team, helping us to reach our fundraising goals each year.

Follow us on Social Media!


10. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
Stay tuned for exciting new opportunities for corporate sponsorship. In the meantime, if you know of any companies or organizations that would be interested in helping Woodson Crew stay the amazing program that it is, contact Ana at [email protected].

Posted on

Sep 14, 2023 Email Update

ots going on!! Read on to find out how you can help usher in the start to an amazing season. Remember, you can always find the newsletter archives on our website.

1. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. GET CREDITS NOW!
2. SWIM TEST (FOR NEW RECRUITS ONLY)
3. REMINDER: RESTAURANT NIGHT, THU., 9/21 NOODLES & CO., 4-8p
4. GREEN DAYS BEGIN 9/26
5. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED., 9/27
6. THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW
7. ALL THINGS ERG RELATED
8. SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT WOODSON CREW!
9. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE
10. KEEP UP-TO-DATE
11. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK

  1. Sign up for VASRA Work Days in September
  2. CRITICAL NEED. Work Football Concessions, on Oct 6th
  3. Recruit vendors for our 30th annual craft show!

1. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. GET CREDITS NOW!

  • VASRA Clean up days

VASRA has scheduled Fall clean up days for 4 Saturdays in September. Big thank you to Michael Ewalt and Yoshimi Chase for jumping in and signing up already! Each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day and there are still slots available 9/16 and 9/23, 1-4p and all day on 9/30! Sign up here!

  • Football Concessions

Each season, Woodson Crew is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Our date is October 6th. There are two shifts to volunteer – 6:15-8:00 and 8:00-9:45 PM. We need 9 volunteers for each shift. Get your volunteer credits early AND get to watch the game! Thank you to Sarah Kline, Catherine Backmeyer, and Amy Mireku for already volunteering. Join the fun –  Sign up here!

  • Become our representative with the athletic boosters

We are seeking a volunteer who is willing to attend the Athletic Booster monthly meetings to represent the interests of Woodson Crew. Meetings are usually once a month for about an hour. If you are interested in this low-stakes volunteer opportunity, please reach out to Lisa, our volunteer coordinator, at [email protected].

2. SWIM TEST (FOR NEW RECRUITS ONLY)

The next swim test is scheduled for Sunday, September 17th, 4:00-5:00p. If you are a new rower or coxswain OR you just want to try out Woodson Crew’s Green Days, you are REQUIRED to pass a swim test certified by Woodson Crew prior to participating in 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 held at Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA.  This Sign-Up Genius has all the info you will need to succeed.

3. REMINDER: RESTAURANT NIGHT, THU., 9/21 NOODLES & CO., 4-8p

Feed friends and family all while benefiting the team on Thursday, September 21 from 4-8pm at Noodles & Company, 10296 Main Street. Valid for pickup, delivery and in-restaurant. Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.

4. GREEN DAYS BEGIN 9/26

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. Green days begin September 26 and will take place on Tuesdays (4:30-6:30p), Thursdays (4:30-6:30p), and Saturdays (8:00-10:30a). SIGN UP HERE

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

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

Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. All sessions are at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA).

5. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED., 9/27

Returning and new parents and athletes, join us for an information session on the 2023-2024 season of Woodson Crew. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, Woodson Cafe B, 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. 

6. THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW

Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 10a-4p. WE NEED ALL HANDS ON DECK to make this event a success! Here’s what you can do to help:

  • Volunteer at the show!

This show is too big for just a few people to handle themselves. The income generated from the craft show each year helps our program stay afloat (see what I did there). Both parents and athletes are needed to make this a success. Do your part – sign up here!

  • Spread the word!

If you are on Facebook, please share the event page to all people you think might be interested in attending. The craft show is timed wonderfully for getting your holiday shopping done, so it’s an easy sell! Here’s some sample text you can use: “Get your Gift Shopping Lists ready for Saturday, 4 November!  Come to Woodson HS from 10am to 4pm and find a huge selection of crafts.  Everything from soap to woodcrafts, jewelry to glass.  We still have room for more vendors so talk to your favorites and remind them to register.”

  • Recruit artisans/crafters/makers

We always have a pressing need for 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. OR  – maybe it’s time you follow that dream of making beautiful hats or jewelry. Let us be your foray into the craft world! All Vendors can sign up here: 2023 Craft Show Vendor Registration.

7. ALL THINGS ERG RELATED

  1. Erg Rental Return

Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 at the erg shed, prior to the beginning of Winter Conditioning for the 2023-24 season. Stay tuned for more specific information, but meanwhile keep up the hard work!

  1. Erg Shed Work Day

Another fun opportunity to volunteer is tentatively scheduled for Sat., Oct 28 at the Woodson Erg Shed. Help us get our ergs cleaned, fix up the erg shed and get ready for winter conditioning. The cleanup takes place right after erg rental returns. Stay tuned for a sign up genius!

8. SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT WOODSON CREW!

Save this QR code in your phone to help direct interested athletes! Questions? E-mail [email protected].

9. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE

SEPTEMBER:

OCTOBER:

  • Fri., 10/6: Football Concessions Volunteering (parents only)
  • Tue., 10/10: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 5-9pm
  • Sat., 10/28: Erg return and Erg/Shed Workday (more info to come)
  • Sat., 10/28: Final Green Day, 8-10:30a

NOVEMBER:

10. KEEP UP-TO-DATE

There are lots of way for you to stay connected with Woodson Crew:

  • Join the newsletter (if this one has been forwarded to you)!
    Email [email protected] for more info.
  • Reminisce and share team photos! Downloading is free.
  • Show your spirit! Our team store is open year-round. A portion of the proceeds goes directly to the team, helping us to reach our fundraising goals each year.
  • Follow us on Social Media!
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/woodsoncrew

FB: https://www.facebook.com/woodsoncrew
X: https://twitter.com/WoodsonCrew

11. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

Stay tuned for exciting new opportunities for corporate sponsorship. In the meantime, if you know of any companies or organizations that would be interested in helping Woodson Crew stay the amazing program that it is, contact our Fundraising Chair at [email protected].

Posted on

Sep 7, 2023 Email Update

HERE WE GO, EVERYONE!!

We hope you had a wonderful summer and a relaxing Labor Day weekend. As you might have noticed from Slack, social media and just the general buzz, things are already moving at full speed. We had a good turnout at the Crew interest meeting last week and look forward to welcoming new athletes this season.

Until the beginning of the crew season in the spring, this newsletter will come out once a week. So, set aside some time on Thursdays to read all about what’s happening with Woodson Crew! Remember, you can always find the newsletter archives on our website.

1. SPREAD THE WORD
2. EARLY SEASON VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. GET CREDITS NOW!
A. VASRA CLEAN-UP DAYS
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS
3. SWIM TEST (FOR NEW RECRUITS ONLY)
4. RESTAURANT NIGHT, THU., 9/21 NOODLES & CO., 4-8p
5. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED., 9/27
6. GREEN DAYS BEGIN 9/26
7. PLANNING IS UNDERWAY FOR…
A. THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW
B. ERG RENTAL RETURN
C. ERG SHED WORK-DAY
8. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE
9. KEEP UP-TO-DATE
10. THANK OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS

ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK

  1. Sign up for VASRA Work Days in September
  2. Sign up for Swim Test (New Recruits only), Sep 17.
  3. Sign up to work Football Concessions (parents only) on Oct 6th
  4. Recruit vendors for our 30th annual craft show!

1. SPREAD THE WORD

Recruitment should be at the top of our minds and in full swing! Please share your enthusiasm for our team. Speak to other students and parents; encourage them to check us out. Save this QR code in your phone to help direct interested athletes! Questions? E-mail [email protected]

2. EARLY SEASON VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. GET CREDITS NOW!
A. VASRA CLEAN-UP DAYS: VASRA has scheduled the Fall clean up days for 4 Saturdays in September.Each school is expected to send one volunteer for each clean up day; e.g. 4 or more Woodson volunteers total). Sign up here!
B. FOOTBALL CONCESSIONS: Each season, Woodson Crew is responsible for working the concession stand at a Woodson Football game. Our date is October 6th. There are two shifts to volunteer – 6:15-8:00 and 8:00-9:45 PM. We need 9 volunteers for each shift. Get your volunteer credits early with this fun opportunity (AND get to watch the game)! Sign up here!

3. SWIM TEST (FOR NEW RECRUITS ONLY)
Every new rower and coxswain is required to pass a swim test certified by Woodson Crew prior to participating in 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.

The next swim test is scheduled for Sunday, September 17th, 4:00-5:00p and consists of:

  1. 100 yard swim, any stroke or combination of strokes, in a swimsuit and;
  2. two minutes of treading water with clothes on to simulate a boat capsizing during cold water practice. Clothing should be a long-sleeved shirt and long pants (sweatpants or leggings of some kind).
  3. Putting on a personal flotation device (life vest) while in the water.

Swim Tests are held at Audrey Moore Rec Center, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA. Use this Sign-Up Genius to let us know that you will attend.

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU:

  • Wear your swimsuit for the 100 yard swim (first event)
  • Towel
  • long-sleeved shirt and sweatpants or leggings to put on over your swimsuit (will be worn in the water)
  • dry clothes to change into
  • waterproof/plastic bag for wet clothes 

4. RESTAURANT NIGHT, THU., 9/21 NOODLES & CO., 4-8p
Feed friends and family all while benefiting the team on Thursday, September 21 from 4-8pm at Noodles & Company, 10296 Main Street. Valid for pickup, delivery and in-restaurant. Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at online checkout or via the Noodles Rewards app.


5. PARENT & ATHLETE INFORMATION SESSION, WED., 9/27
Returning and new parents and athletes, join us for an information session on the 2023-2024 season of Woodson Crew. WED., SEPTEMBER 27, Woodson Cafe B, 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.

6. GREEN DAYS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 26
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. Green days begin September 26 and will take place on Tuesdays (4:30-6:30p), Thursdays (4:30-6:30p), and Saturdays (8:00-10:30a). SIGN UP HERE

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

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

Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and carpooling is highly recommended. All sessions are at Sandy Run Regional Park (10450 Van Thompson Road, Fairfax Station, VA).


7. PLANNING IS UNDERWAY FOR…
A. THE 30th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW: Our annual craft show is back! Mark your calendars now for Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 10a-4p. Set up for the event will begin Friday, November 3 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.

We also have a pressing need for 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: 2023 Craft Show Vendor Registration.

B. ERG RENTAL RETURN: Athletes – keep on erg-ing!! Erg rental return will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 at the erg shed, prior to the beginning of Winter Conditioning for the 2023-24 season. Stay tuned for more specific information, but meanwhile keep up the hard work!

C. ERG SHED WORK-DAY: Another fun opportunity to volunteer is tentatively scheduled for Sat., Oct 28 at the Woodson Erg Shed. Help us get our ergs cleaned, fix up the erg shed and get ready for winter conditioning. The cleanup takes place right after erg rental returns. Stay tuned for a sign up genius!

8. LOOKING AHEAD: AT-A-GLANCE

SEPTEMBER:

OCTOBER:

  • Fri., 10/6: Football Concessions Volunteering (parents only)
  • Tue., 10/10: Chipotle restaurant fundraiser, 5-9pm
  • Sat., 10/28: Erg return and Erg/Shed Workday (more info to come)
  • Sat., 10/28: Final Green Day, 8-10:30a

NOVEMBER:

9. KEEP UP-TO-DATE
There are lots of way for you to stay connected with Woodson Crew:

10. THANK OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS
The family owned Kilroys (Springfield VA) and The Electric Palm (Woodbridge VA) have graciously become a PLATINUM SPONSOR of the Woodson Crew team! Worth the visit – and when you do, please express your gratitude for their contribution to our team!

If you know of any companies or organizations that would be interested in sponsorship opportunities, visit the Sponsorship page on our website to learn more.

Posted on

May 30, 2023 Email Update

We’ve closed out the regatta season with an amazing showing at SRAA Nationals for the Women’s 1V and 2V. We are so proud of ALL of our athletes – and we look forward to celebrating their achievements and YOUR contributions this Wednesday at our end-of-season banquet.

1. END OF SEASON PARTY – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
2. BOATHOUSE WORK DAY – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
3. SUMMER ERG RENTALS – MAY 30 DEADLINE
4. *NEW* SPIRIT WEAR RE-SALE
5. *NEW* THANK OUR NEW CORPORATE SPONSOR!
6. *NEW* RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER – TUE, JUNE 13, 6:30am – 9:00pm
7. SCHOOL PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR
8. AT-A-GLANCE
9. KEEP UP-TO-DATE IN THE OFF-SEASON

ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK

  1. END OF SEASON PARTY – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
    Please RSVP to our end of season party, sign up to bring a few items and volunteer to help. Sign Up Here. The end-of-season celebration will take place at 7:00pm, Wednesday, May 31 in Woodson Cafeteria A. Please join us in celebrating all of you – athletes and parents/guardians. This pizza party is more than just an end-of-season celebration. Coaches will present awards, we will recognize our seniors and attending parents will have an introduction/vote for next year’s new board members!
  1. BOATHOUSE WORK DAY – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
    Our last workday of the season will be on June 3, 2023. You’ll start at 9:00am and close up the boat house for the season. Plan for about 2-3 hours – but many hands make light work! Sign Up Here.
  1. SUMMER ERG RENTALS – MAY 30 DEADLINE
    The team has a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. Ergs will be returned prior to the start of winter conditioning in October 2023. The cost to rent an erg is $200.00 (pre-paid). Payment will be due May 30, 2023. Plan to pick up the erg directly after the end-of-season celebration on May 31, 2023. Reserve an erg here!. 
  1. *NEW* SPIRIT WEAR RE-SALE
    Do you have old Woodson Crew spirit wear that you no longer wear? Or perhaps you’re looking for a community conscious way to clear up those overflowing drawers? We can help. Our new fundraising chair, Ana Tolentino, will be collecting gently used spirit wear for resale. All items will be reconditioned and washed, then sold for a fraction of the retail price. Help other up coming Woodson families sport their support without breaking the bank.

If you have items you’d like to contribute please bring them with you to the banquet on Wednesday! Questions? Text Ana at (703) 731-7663 or join and then post in the new Slack channel #spiritwear-resale.

  1. *NEW* THANK OUR NEW CORPORATE SPONSOR!
    The family-owned Kilroys (Springfield VA) and The Electric Palm (Woodbridge VA) have graciously become a PLATINUM SPONSOR of the Woodson Crew team! In the off-season, please visit these restaurants to express our gratitude. If you know of any companies or organizations that would be interested in sponsoring our team, visit the Sponsorship page on our website to learn more.

Kilroys (Springfield VA) and The Electric Palm (Woodbridge VA) are hometown favorite restaurants for friends and family. They cater to a diverse crowd and many of their original customers continue to bring their children and family members to their welcoming establishments.

At The Electric Palm you can enjoy amazing views of the Occoquan river landscape, beautiful marina boats and colorful sunsets. Our open air Tiki patio and casual dining room seating provide ample room for large groups and family parties. We are located on the grounds of the Prince William Marina, so get out of the traffic and down to the river!

Kilroy’s is proud to have served this area over the years and is committed to continuing our tradition. Hosting weekly and monthly events in our restaurant allows our customers to get together and enjoy their private functions ranging from business events, team lunches and birthdays to holiday celebrations, reunions, college parties and much more.

  1. *NEW* RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER – TUE, JUNE 13, 6:30am – 9:00pm
    We will be having a restaurant fundraiser at the Wendy’s in Fair City Mall ALL DAY LONG on Tue, June 13. 20% of sales that day will be donated to the team. Please make sure to mention WTW Crew when you order!
  1. SCHOOL PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR
    Each year, it is required that all student athletes have a completed VHSL physical on file before participating in sports. Completing that physical at the end of the school year  means that you won’t run into rushing to get a physical at the start of the crew season next year!

To aid in that end, the Athletic Training Programs at various high schools in NoVA hold a Sports Physical Night. The goal of Sports Physical Night is to provide a complete pre-participation examination screening that will leave student athletes with a valid VHSL physical for the entirety of the 2023-24 school year. The cost for the physical is $50. 

The Athletic Training Program receives no funding from FCPS (sound familiar?), and this event is their ONLY fundraiser for the year. ALL proceeds go towards helping the program purchase supplies. 

Sign up for an appointment for a physical here. The Woodson event on June 14 is full, but you can sign up for another school’s event using the same form!

  1. AT-A-GLANCE
  • End-of-Season Banquet (athletes & families) 7PM @ Woodson Cafe A: May 31
  • Erg rental pickup following the banquet at the Erg Shed (door 15): May 31
  • Last boathouse workday: June 3
  • Wendy’s Restaurant Fundraiser: June 13, 6:30a-9:00p
  1.  KEEP UP-TO-DATE IN THE OFF-SEASON
    There are lots of way for you to stay connected with Woodson Crew in the off-season:
  • Join the newsletter! Email [email protected] for more info.
  • Reminisce and share team photos! Downloading is free.
  • Show your spirit! Our team store is open year-round. A portion of the proceeds goes directly to the team, helping us to reach our fundraising goals each year.
  • Follow us on Social Media!
Posted on

May 22, 2023 Email Update

What a weekend we had at The Stotesbury Cup Regatta! We came together as a team to race well and support all our boats. 4 out of 7 boats made it to semi-finals and the Women’s 2V made Woodson history by making it to finals and placing 4th overall! Our eyes are now set on the last regatta of the season, SRAA Nationals for the Women’s 1V and 2V, May 25-26 in Oak Ridge, TN. 

1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON
2. SRAA NATIONALS, MAY 25-26, 2023
3. END OF SEASON PARTY RSVP AND FOOD SIGN UP!
4. BOATHOUSE WORK DAY
5. SUMMER ERG RENTALS
6. SCHOOL PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR
7. SEE AND SHARE PHOTOS
8. SHOW YOUR TEAM SPIRIT
9. AT-A-GLANCE
10. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK

  1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON

Practices will be focused for those going to Nationals, although Stotesbury de-rigging should be happening today (Monday, May 22). If you are unsure if you should come to practice this week, please double check with your coaches.

  1. SRAA NATIONALS, MAY 25-26, 2023
  • PAYMENT: Please click here to pay the registration fee for athletes attending SRAA Nationals. Payment is due NLT Noon on Wednesday, May 24. If this presents a financial burden, please contact Board President Tarek Rizk via Slack or at [email protected] immediately. The team does have access to scholarship funds to reduce the burden.
  • SLACK: If you are a parent/guardian of a Woman’s 1V or 2V athlete, please make sure you join the #2023-nationals channel on our parent Slack. Since we will each be providing our own transportation for this regatta, the Slack channel will enable us to coordinate with each other leading up to and at the event.
  • WEBSITE: Please visit our special web page where we will gather the details as they come in. You may also want to visit the SRAA website do do recon on your own!
  1. END OF SEASON PARTY RSVP AND FOOD SIGN UP!

Please RSVP to our end of season party and sign up to bring a few items. Sign Up Here.

Our end-of-season celebration will take place at 7:00pm, Wednesday, May 31 in Woodson Cafeteria A. Please join us in celebrating all of you – athletes and parents/guardians. This pizza party is more than just an end-of-season celebration. Coaches will present awards, we will recognize our seniors and attending parents will have an introduction/vote for next year’s new board members! Please RSVP for you AND your athlete no later than Monday, May 29, so we know how much pizza to order (for example, if your athlete will be the only one attending, RSVP for 1. If you or others will be attending WITH your athlete, RSVP for 2+). RSVP here.

  1. BOATHOUSE WORK DAY

Our last workday of the season will be on June 3, 2023. You’ll start at 9:00am and close up the boat house for the season. Plan for about 2-3 hours – but many hands make light work! Sign Up Here.

  1. SUMMER ERG RENTALS

The team will have a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. Ergs will be returned prior to the start of winter conditioning in October 2023. The cost to rent an erg will be $200.00 (pre-paid). Payment will be due May 30, 2023. Athletes interested in renting an erg should plan on picking it up at the end-of-season celebration on May 31, 2023. Sign up now to reserve an erg and submit payment via PayPal. 

  1. SCHOOL PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR

Each year, it is required that all student athletes have a completed VHSL physical on file before participating in sports. Completing that physical at the end of the school year  means that you won’t run into rushing to get a physical at the start of the crew season next year!

To aid in that end, the Athletic Training Programs at various high schools in NoVA hold a Sports Physical Night. The goal of Sports Physical Night is to provide a complete pre-participation examination screening that will leave student athletes with a valid VHSL physical for the entirety of the 2023-24 school year. The cost for the physical is $50. 

The Athletic Training Program receives no funding from FCPS, and this event is their ONLY fundraiser for the year. ALL proceeds go towards helping the program purchase supplies. 

Sign up for an appointment for a physical here. Even If you cannot make the Woodson event on June 14, sign up for another school’s event using the same form.

  1. SEE AND SHARE PHOTOS

Please share any photos you take at regattas with the team! Send photos to our Team Photographer, Colin, at [email protected] AND [email protected] (please send to both email addresses for now) so he can upload the photos into our team photos on SmugMug

  1. SHOW YOUR TEAM SPIRIT

Our team store is open year-round! So save the link for memorable gifts that you can buy throughout the year! A portion of the proceeds goes directly to the team, so you will benefit the team while showing off your team pride. Shop for items for athletes, parents, family, and friends. Visit the store today!

  1. AT-A-GLANCE
  • REGATTA (Qualifiers only) – SRAA Championships at Oak Ridge, TN: May 26-27
  • End-of-Season Banquet for athletes and families 7PM @ Woodson Cafe A: May 31
  • Erg rental pickup immediately following the banquet at the Erg Shed (door 15): May 31
  • Last boathouse workday: June 3
  1.  FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Contact [email protected] to get signed up for our weekly communication and our Slack community.

Posted on

May 17, 2023 Stotesbury Special Edition

Welcome to another special edition newsletter regarding the Stotesbury Cup Regatta! Some of this information is fluid, but please read this newsletter, watch our web page and join the #2023-stotesbury channel on Slack for all of the immediate information you need to know.

1. BASIC INFO
2. LUGGAGE DROP-OFF
3. VOLUNTEER OPENINGS
4. TRANSPORTATION IN PHILADELPHIA, PA
A. TEAM BUS FOR ATHLETES AND COACHES
B. BEST OPTION – UBER/LYFT, etc. DROP OFF/PICK-UP
C. PARKING
D. FREE SHUTTLES
5. ONCE THERE, WHERE DO I GO?
6. WHAT TO BRING?
7. PREPARE FOR WEATHER!
8. FEEL FREE TO COME AND GO! STROLL AROUND!

ACTION ITEMS
Luggage Drop-Off TONIGHT (Wed, May17), 7:00-8:00p Woodson Door 3.
Bring Luggage Check-in Form and Medication Form (if applicable).

  1. BASIC INFO
    Please visit Woodson’s Stotesbury Information Page for details. Any changes have been placed prominently at the top of the page to help you sift through all the info.

It looks like there will be approximately 877 boats competing, comprising a total of almost 5000 athletes. Combine that with spectators, retail and locals and you have an incredible amount of people converging on one area in a short period of time! So, our biggest suggestion is this: bring your patience. This is fun and overwhelming and new for so many of our athletes. We are honored and excited to guide them as best we can.

We’ve worked to distill all the information that has been put out below and on our website. If you prefer to hear the information from the organizers directly, and have 90 minutes to spare, feel free to access the recording of a webinar that the Schuykill Navy put together here. Be prepared to learn about all the details you may want and more! 

  1. LUGGAGE DROP-OFF
    Luggage drop-off is tonight at 7 PM at Woodson. If athletes are bringing their luggage tonight without a parent, parents must sign Part I of this form. If parents are accompanying their student to drop off luggage, bring that same form and sign Part II so we can confirm the luggage contains no prohibited items.

All bags except carry-ons must be turned in at this time; this baggage will be inaccessible during bus travel. Students must accompany their own bags for this search, which is supervised by the coaching staff. This expedites the team’s departure on Thursday and leaves only carry-on bags to be searched before boarding the bus. All bags will be secured in a locked room until the bus is loaded on May 18. 

  1. VOLUNTEER OPENINGS: The following volunteer slots must be filled ASAP before we head to Stotesbury!
    – Boat parent for the Men’s Jr-8. The primary jobs of this position are to ensure that the athletes are on time and in their rooms prior to lights out. You will serve as the boat’s point of contact if any issues arise.
    – Chaperone “boat parent” for the male alternates attending. They will be roomed together. Job duties are as described above.

See all remaining volunteer openings here: Stotesbury Sign-Up Genius

  1. TRANSPORTATION IN PHILADELPHIA, PA
    A. TEAM BUS FOR ATHLETES AND COACHES: Space permitting, parents are allowed to ride the bus for free from the hotel to the river and back. However, there are some complications due to our spread between the Residence Inn and Springhill Suites. We are working with the bus company to see just what is possible with the hour-long round-trip for the buses. Due to the limited space on the buses, it may not be convenient or possible for chaperones, parents and other spectators to ride the bus from the Residence Inn or Springhill Suites to and from the regatta site. As a result, it would be advisable to have some contingency plans in place for your own transportation.

    B. BEST OPTION – UBER/LYFT, etc. DROP OFF/PICK-UP: According to the coordination team for the regatta, the BEST option is ride-share (Uber, Lyft, etc.) to and from the “Entry Gate,” which is located on Kelly Drive under the Strawberry Mansion Bridge. The following guidance has been provided to get you to the best spot for drop-offs/pick-ups:
    • If you’re using Google Maps, you can use “Furness Gateway.” Keep in mind, however, that traffic on Kelly Drive will only flow in a single direction INBOUND to the City. So this will get you “close” but not all the way in.
    • Most RideShare Apps will allow you to add a  GOOGLE PLUS CODE to get you to a convenient drop off spot. The GOOGLE PLUS LOCATION CODE is XRW5+5C Philadelphia, PA.
    • For more information, look to the Stotesbury Cup Regatta Travel page.

    C. PARKING: There are 4 lots off-site that are managed by Standard Parking. Fees will be around $20. Do not park anywhere else in Fairmount Park or risk being ticketed and/or towed. Find the location of off-site parking lots here

    D. FREE SHUTTLES: Shuttles will make a continuous loop throughout Fairmont park and are free to ride.

      1. ONCE THERE, WHERE DO I GO? The team spaces are assigned numbers based on when we register for tent space. There are 60+ tents, with the first being closest to the Athlete Village. Right now our preliminary tent number is #8 which will be finalized on THURSDAY MORNING (5/18). So, please keep an eye on our Slack channel to be able to find the team during the race.
      1. WHAT TO BRING?
        – Athletes should have a packing list from their coaches, but can also check our website for suggestions.
        – Spectators, please note that you should bring your own refillable water bottle and your own folding chairs, if desired.
        – By the way, Cheryl Urban, our Sportswear Chair, will be setting up a small Woodson merchandise shop at the team tent. So we’ve got you covered if you forget any of your Woodson merch!
      1. PREPARE FOR WEATHER! As it is right now, the forecast is calling for rain on Saturday. Be prepared for all types of weather!
      1. FEEL FREE TO COME AND GO! STROLL AROUND! If you didn’t purchase the ability to eat the chuckwagon food with the team, do not fear! There are plenty of options onsite with various food trucks. Keep in mind that, like in all things, nothing is fully predictable so feel free to explore all Philadelphia has to offer between races!
      1. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS? If you have any additional questions that have not been answered here or on the website, please post in the #2023-stotesbury channel on Slack. If you’ve got a question, we guarantee at least one other person has that same question.
      Posted on

      May 15, 2023 Email Update

      We are incredibly proud of the boats that competed on Saturday – and ALL of our athletes for this season. You can find the results from this weekend’s regatta here: VSRA Day 2 Results. Athletes, thank you for your dedication to your craft and to each other. The Women’s 1V and 2V qualified for Nationals, set for May 25-26 in Oak Ridge, TN. So, we have 2 exciting weeks of racing ahead of us. While the end of season racing is technically winding down, there are A LOT of events happening over the coming month. Please read on for more!

      1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON
      2. ZOOM CALL FOR NATIONALS, TUE, MAY 16
      3. NOODLES & CO. RESTAURANT NIGHT, WED, MAY 17
      4. STOTESBURY CUP REGATTA INFO
      5. FULFILL YOUR VOLUNTEER COMMITMENT HERE!
      6. RSVP FOR END OF SEASON CELEBRATION ON MAY 31
      7. SUMMER ERG RENTALS
      8. SCHOOL PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR
      9. SEE AND SHARE PHOTOS
      10. SHOW YOUR TEAM SPIRIT
      11. AT-A-GLANCE
      12. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

      ACTION ITEMS FOR THIS WEEK
      Read through the whole newsletter!

      1. PRACTICES FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON: Practices will be focused for Stotesbury participants and those going to Nationals. If you are unsure if you should come to practice this week, please double check with your coaches.
      1. ZOOM CALL FOR NATIONALS, TUE, MAY 16: The Women’s 1V and 2V both qualified for Nationals, to be held May 25-26 in Oak Ridge, TN. Please plan to tune in for an informational Zoom call at 7:30p on Tuesday, May 16 to discuss cost and logistics for this travel regatta.
      1. NOODLES & CO. RESTAURANT NIGHT, WED, MAY 17: There are no more local team dinners planned, but don’t worry – we have one more local dinner set for you (on a day when we know you’ll be busy making sure everything is packed for Stotes and doing luggage drop off)! Support Woodson Crew on Wednesday May 17th 4-8pm at Noodles & Company, 10296 Main Street. Please mention you are supporting the fundraiser or use “GIVING25” in the Coupon Code line at checkout.
      1. STOTESBURY CUP REGATTA INFO: Woodson is joining the Schuylkill Navy’s Green Sustainability Pledge once again for this year’s regatta. The Green Sustainability Pledge aims to reduce waste and encourage participants to care for the river and the surrounding area. MOST IMPORTANT WAY YOU CAN HELP? Bring your own refillable water bottle. We will have large water coolers that can be used to refill, but we will not have individual disposable bottles of water.

      Do you have other questions about the upcoming Stotesbury Cup Regatta in Philadelphia, PA? If you do, check out the #2023-stotesbury channel on Slack. Also, tons of information is located on the Stotesbury Cup info page. There has been an update re: the location of the hotel that the athletes, coaches and some volunteers will be staying at. Stay up-to-date by checking in often.

      1. FULFILL YOUR VOLUNTEER COMMITMENT HERE!: Each family has a volunteer commitment as part of their student’s role on the Woodson Rowing team. Several families have incomplete volunteer hours this season. If you haven’t volunteered yet this season, please check out the opportunities below and sign up now. Thank you!
      • Stotesbury Cup volunteer jobs: plenty of opportunities for folks who are NOT traveling as well as for adults who are willing to help while in Philadelphia.
      • End-of-Season Boathouse Workday! Our last workday of the season will be on June 3, 2023. You’ll start at 9:00am and close up the boat house for the season. Plan for about 2 hours – but many hands make light work! Stand by for an official sign-up genius.
      • Join the Board! The WTW Crew Nominating Committee is still looking to fill the Fundraising Chair role for next year. This can definitely be a job sharing position! The ideal Fundraising Chair is willing to put together and manage a team of volunteers who help organize and coordinate fundraising activities for the team. Please contact Catherine Backmeyer, the Nominating Committee Chair, on Slack or at [email protected] if you want to know more!
      1. RSVP FOR END OF SEASON CELEBRATION ON MAY 31: Our end-of-season celebration will take place at 7:00pm, Wednesday, May 31 in Woodson Cafeteria A. Please join us in celebrating all of you – athletes and parents/guardians. This pizza party is more than just an end-of-season celebration. Coaches will present awards, we will recognize our seniors and attending parents will have an introduction/vote for next year’s new board members! Please RSVP for you AND your athlete no later than Monday, May 29, so we know how much pizza to order (for example, if your athlete will be the only one attending, RSVP for 1. If you or others will be attending WITH your athlete, RSVP for 2+). RSVP here.
      1. SUMMER ERG RENTALS: The team will have a limited number of ergs available for athlete rental over the summer. Ergs will be returned prior to the start of winter conditioning in October 2023. The cost to rent an erg will be $200.00 (pre-paid via the W.T. Woodson Crew Boosters PayPal account). Payment will be due May 30, 2023. Athletes interested in renting an erg should plan on picking it up at the end-of-season celebration on May 31, 2023. Sign up now to reserve an erg and submit payment via PayPal. 
      1. SCHOOL PHYSICALS FOR NEXT YEAR: Each year, it is required that all student athletes have a completed VHSL physical on file before participating in sports. Completing that physical at the end of the school year  means that you won’t run into rushing to get a physical at the start of the crew season next year!

      To aid in that end, the Athletic Training Programs at various high schools in NoVA hold a Sports Physical Night. The goal of Sports Physical Night is to provide a complete pre-participation examination screening that will leave student athletes with a valid VHSL physical for the entirety of the 2023-24 school year. The cost for the physical is $50. 

      The Athletic Training Program receives no funding from FCPS, and this event is their ONLY fundraiser for the year. ALL proceeds go towards helping the program purchase supplies. 

      Sign up for an appointment for a physical here. Even If you cannot make the Woodson event on June 14, sign up for another school’s event using the same form.

      1. SEE AND SHARE PHOTOS: Please share any photos you take at regattas with the team! Send photos to our Team Photographer, Colin, at [email protected] AND [email protected] (please send to both email addresses for now) so he can upload the photos into our team photos on SmugMug.
      1. SHOW YOUR TEAM SPIRIT: Our team store is open year-round! So save the link for memorable gifts that you can buy throughout the year! A portion of the proceeds goes directly to the team, so you will benefit the team while showing off your team pride. Shop for items for athletes, parents, family, and friends. Visit the store today!
      1. AT-A-GLANCE
      • Restaurant Fundraiser – Noodles & Co: May 17, 4-8p
      • REGATTA (Qualifiers only) – Stotesbury Cup at Philadelphia, PA: May 19-20
      • REGATTA (Qualifiers only) – SRAA Championships at Oak Ridge, TN: May 26-27
      • End-of-Season Banquet for athletes and families @ Woodson Cafe A: May 31
      1.  FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Contact [email protected] to get signed up for our weekly communication and our Slack community. 
      Posted on

      May 11, 2023 Special Edition: VSRC Day 2

      Welcome to a special edition newsletter as we head into Day 2 of the Virginia State Rowing Championships! We had a lot of success last weekend, so let’s keep that energy flowing into this Saturday! Let’s #pullforwoodson!

      1. FINAL TEAM DINNER, FRIDAY, MAY 12
      2. VSRC DAY 2 THIS SATURDAY!
      A. TIMING
      B. ATTENDANCE
      C. OFFSITE PARKING FOR SPECTATORS
      D. ONSITE PARKING
      3. EVENT PHOTOS
      4. SPIRIT WEAR – GET IT NOW!
      5. AT-A-GLANCE
      6. SPREAD THE WORD

      ACTION ITEMS
      Team Dinner Chaperones needed. Sign up here.

      1. FINAL TEAM DINNER, FRIDAY, MAY 12
        This week’s dinner is on FRIDAY, MAY 12 in Woodson Cafeteria A. We realize that not all boats will be rowing on Day 2 of States this Saturday, but all athletes are expected to attend the team dinner – even if you didn’t practice this week! We still have need for 2 chaperones at the team dinner. Sign up here.
      1. VSRC DAY 2 THIS SATURDAY! 
        It’s championship season! Day 2 of the Virginia State Rowing Championships (VSRC) is this Saturday at Sandy Run Regional Park. The First and second 8s will be rowing this weekend. If you haven’t been to a regatta yet, this is the one to attend! race.

      Feel free to check these websites for more information: Regatta Central and VASRA.

      A. TIMING
      Here is the heat sheet for Saturday: VSRC Day 2 Heat Sheet. Right now races are at the following times:
      10:42a – Women’s 2V
      11:06a – Men’s 2V
      11:18a – Women’s 1V
      11:36a – Men’s 1V

        THESE TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Some weather forecasts are calling for thunderstorms on Saturday Afternoon starting about 2:30. Possible schedule change ideas include shortening the break, shorten the centers to 5 minutes (a race launching every 5 minutes), and moving events around. So, prepare to be flexible. As always, athletes should plan to be at the boathouse no later than 2 hours before their race time.

        B. ATTENDANCE
        The following boats will race this weekend: Women’s 1V & 2V, Men’s 1V & 2V. All athletes are highly encouraged to attend, if available. 

          C. OFFSITE PARKING FOR SPECTATORS
          There is no spectator/visitor parking at Sandy Run. As a result, families should plan accordingly. For VSRC Day 2, off-site parking is located at South County High School.

            • Parents driving athletes can drop athletes off at Sandy Run and then proceed to South County High School to park. South County High School is located at 8501 Silverbrook Rd, Lorton, VA 22079.
            • Spectators will park at South County High School and take a shuttle bus to the regatta. The cost of the shuttles is $15 round trip paid at South County prior to boarding the bus. Athletes in uniform can ride the shuttle for free.  Families should plan for a 15-20 minute walk or a shorter shuttle ride between where the buses stop (Lot C) and the grandstand.
            • The shuttles are scheduled to begin at 7:00 am (2 hours before the first race) and will conclude running from Sandy Run NLT 1 hour after the last race. 

            D. ONSITE PARKING
            Onsite parking is limited to the groups below only. There is no fee for these groups to park at Sandy Run.

              • ATHLETES: Loisvale Lot. Plan for the walk to the boathouse!
              • VOLUNTEERS: Lot D.
              • COACHES: Lot D. Please display your green coach hangtag.
              • STAFF / LOC: Lot B, second row from the back.
              • HANDICAPPED: Lot C, as designated.

              3. EVENT PHOTOS
              Check out our collection of team photos on SmugMug. After the regatta, please share your photos with the team via one of the following methods: the #photo-sharing channel on Slack and send photos to our Team Photographer, Colin, at [email protected] AND [email protected] (please send to both email addresses for now) so he can upload the photos into SmugMug.

              4. SPIRIT WEAR – GET IT NOW!
              Shop for items for rowers, as well as for parents, family, and friends via our online spirit wear store. Don’t forget, a portion of the proceeds goes directly to the team, so you will benefit the team while showing off your team pride.  Visit the store today!

              5. AT-A-GLANCE

              • Team Dinner @ Woodson Cafe A: 7:15p, May 12
              • REGATTA – VSRC (State Championship) at Sandy Run, Day 2: May 13
              • Restaurant Fundraiser – Noodles & Co: May 17, 4-8p
              • REGATTA (Qualifiers only) – Stotesbury Cup at Philadelphia, PA: May 19-20
              • REGATTA (Qualifiers only) – SRAA Championships at Oak Ridge, TN: May 26-27
              • End-of-Season Banquet for athletes and families @ Woodson Cafe A: May 31

              6. SPREAD THE WORD
              Continue to share the enthusiasm for your team as you speak to other students and encourage them to join! Please direct any questions about joining the team to [email protected].

              Contact [email protected] to get signed up for our weekly communication and our Slack community. 

              Follow us on Social Media!