Fall 2020
While Covid 19 continued to impact the normal seasonal activities, the Coaches, Board, and Team embraced the mantra of “Improvise. Adapt. Overcome.” as articulated by the Coaches. Because rowing 4’s and 8’s was not safe as determined by the US Rowing Association, the Team switched to pairs and doubles and many of the team learned to scull. The Coaches developed a new schedule with early morning, afternoon, and evening practices and Varsity team members were on the water 3 to 4 days/week. Athletes paired up and masked up with a consistent rowing partner to continue rowing and stay safe. There were also opportunities to connect off the water with virtual team workouts and meetings.
Athletics
Embracing innovation, several varsity girls competed in the virtual Head of the Charles.
Hannah Gardner / Gianna Schulp (2-) and Tata Toure / Catharine Fang (2-) in the Women’s U17 (Participatory Water)
Katana Yu / Linnea Darius (2-) in the Women’s Youth (Participatory Water)
Laura Howe and Clara Abdelmalek in the Women’s U17 (Participatory Erg)
Congratulations girls for taking up the challenge to compete under circumstances that we could not have envisioned – we admire your resilience!
Halloween Head Race and Costume Contest
Friendly competition on and off the water was enjoyed in the Halloween Head Race with special thanks for the grab-and-go treats supplied by the food table crew.
Best Costumes:
1 – Ava & Amber – The Hunter & The Hunted
2 – Clara & Laura – Clorox and “Patient Zero”
3 – Laura & Natalie – Lilo & Stitch
Scariest Costumes:
1 – Cooper Mahne – Coach Andrew
2 – Nicole & Olivia – Frogs (Scary at least for Coach Chris)
3 – Luke & Dylan – 2Ks
Community Spirit and Support
Continuing to raise funds to support the team, the first Fall Flower, Pumpkin, and Cider sale was held and was a great new success raising over $4,000. We also held a very successful Chipotle Dinner fundraiser. The team is continuing strong with Raffle Ticket sales and the GOB effort.
We are immensely grateful for the tenacity and resilience the WJ Crew Team has exhibited in these unprecedented times. The ability to carry on as a team, to be on the water together and support one another and the community off the water is a true blessing.
