FAQs:
How long has the crew team been around?
Bedford Crew first formed in January of 2010. The first season was the spring of 2010 when 27 teammates trained mostly on the land and got into a boat once at the end of the season. We now have 80-90 rowers each fall and spring season.
Water-based sports can be dangerous. Is it safe?
There are risks to every sport, but with the proper precautions, rowing is among the safest sports there is. Our coaches are very experienced and well-trained, and each rower must undergo a safety program, including a swim test before being eligible to row. In addition, the coaches monitor the weather carefully and will not go out on the water if there is any sign of bad weather.
Where and when do we practice?
Dry land training is at Bedford High School, one day a week; we are on the water at Bulldog Landing in Hooksett, NH (107 West River Road) 4 days a week. There are also either weekend (Saturday) practices or weekend races scheduled throughout the season.
Currently, the men practice on the water at the boathouse on Mondays and Wednesdays thru Friday during the week and are at BHS for dryland training on Tuesdays. The women practice on the water at the boathouse on Tuesdays through Friday during the week and are at BHS for dryland training on Mondays.
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Rowers provide their own transportation to and from the boathouse, but we do help with coordinating carpools.
Can I do another sport at the same time as crew?
The short answer: NO. Crew is not an NHIAA-sanctioned sport, which is typical nationwide for high school rowing and is one of the reason we are self-funded. However, the commitment is the same – if not greater – than that of a Varsity sport. Beyond the commitment to yourself and the sport, there is a greater commitment to the team that is unique to rowing: If you don’t show up for practice, there’s a good chance no one in your boat will be able to go on the water.
Do I have to row in both the spring and fall seasons?
You do not need to make a commitment to both seasons in order to row. The fall season consists of “head races”, which are typically between 2 and 3 miles long (approx. 15-25 minutes). Spring races are “sprint rowing”, typically 1500 meters for high school rowers (approx. 5-8 minutes). The practice equivalent for each season is approximately the same.
How do I register?
You can register for Bedford Crew from the Athletic tab of the high school website. Once you’ve filled out the information, turn in your forms and payment (in person) to the BHS Athletic Department. You will then be emailed confirmation from Bedford Crew with more information.
If you have any questions, please email bedfordcrewnh@gmail.com.
How is the Bedford Crew Club affiliated with Bedford High School?
The program works with the BHS athletic administrator in collaboration with the board of directors, volunteers, and all coaches. All student-athletes will adhere to the BHS co-curricular handbook. We are entirely self-funded through registration fees, fundraising activities, and personal and corporate donations.
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Is the Bedford Crew Club affiliated with Bedford Bulldogs Athletic Booster Club?
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Please click here for details.
Is the program limited to BHS students or can anyone row?
At this time, Bedford Crew is limited to students attending Bedford High. BHS rowers can earn activity hours (8 hours max per season) for being a member in good standing on the crew team.
What kind of person makes a good rower?
We have football players, tennis players, LAX players, piano players, chess players, and even first-time athletes. More important at the high school level is desire, commitment, hard work, dedication, and attitude. If you want to row, we will work with you on the skill and conditioning you need to compete.
Do I need any equipment or special clothing?
You will need a good pair of running sneakers and spandex shorts. A racing tank is provided at no charge and must be returned at the end of the season. Additional recommended clothing is available as well. All other equipment is supplied by the Bedford Crew.
How much does it cost?
There’s no way around it. Crew is an expensive sport. The registration fee is $550, due before the beginning of each season. We do have an application for financial aid for those who might need help with the fee. We are trying to maintain a balance between affordability and the ability to row. Given all that, we strongly believe there is a fantastic return on investment.
