TAMAR Rowing Club has set up the Tamar Rowing Academy to introduce a new skill-based training program for young people. Its aims are to show them all aspects of the sport by providing flexible structures for delivery of skills and development.

To achieve this, Tamar Rowing Club has bought six state-of-the-art training single sculls. Tamar club president Alan Weeding said these boats have the same geometry as a normal racing scull but are much more stable and durable. ‘‘We believe with this equipment and our progression table award system we will set an example and lead the way in introducing young people to the sport of rowing,’’ he said. The club has four experienced coaches who are all Rowing Australia accredited, and the program is overseen by Tamar senior coach Ron Woods. The program is also supported by Decent Rowing, Tasmania’s unique instructional rowing website.

While aimed at 15-year-olds and above from non-rowing schools who are tall, athletic with good aerobic capacity and living in the Launceston area, the program is open to others who may wish to apply. The club offers a come-and-try day, followed by six training sessions under a trialling membership, usually Saturday mornings but subject to tide and weather conditions. ‘‘If you are playing another sport and would like to try rowing, we would welcome your interest,’’ Weeding said. ‘‘We also encourage parents who may wish to be involved as potential coaches, as the club will undertake to assist you to become an accredited coach.’’

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