Elementary School Rowing Team
First Strokes – Launching September 2026
Our new introductory rowing program, First Strokes, begins this fall. First Strokes is a beginner-friendly elementary school rowing team for young athletes who are curious, active, and ready to try something new. Designed specifically for younger rowers, the program focuses on safety, confidence, coordination, teamwork, and the joy of moving together on the water. No rowing experience is required — athletes are taught the basics through clear instruction, patient coaching, and a supportive team environment.
Rowers will practice with the same teammates, work with coaches, learn shared routines, and grow through the season together. Like other youth sports teams, the goal is not just to learn a skill — it is to build confidence, connection, responsibility, and the feeling of being part of a tribe.
Registration for the 2026 fall season has closed and the team is filled to capacity. If you are interested in joining, email Steven at Steven@waynorrowing.org. Rowing will return in the spring from April – June. If you would like to receive a reminder about spring rowing, please click on the button below.
Why elementary-age rowing?
We’re taking a different approach
Most rowing programs begin in high school, which means younger athletes often miss the chance to experience one of the best team sports available. We’re taking a different approach — not because young athletes need more pressure earlier, but because they deserve access to the benefits of rowing sooner.
When designed specifically for elementary-age athletes, rowing can build coordination, confidence, focus, teamwork, and the powerful feeling of moving together toward a shared goal. With patient coaching, appropriate equipment, clear safety expectations, real instruction, and a focus on fun, we help younger athletes begin rowing in a way that feels safe, welcoming, and age-appropriate.
2026/27 Team Information
Best for: Elementary-age athletes ages 8–11 who are curious, active, and excited to try something new. Most participants will be in grades 3–5, depending on age and readiness. Younger athletes will be considered on a case-by-case basis if space is available.
Experience required: None! Beginners are welcome and encouraged. We teach rowers what they need to know from the start, so athletes do not have to show up already knowing how rowing works. The ability to swim is recommended and athletes will need to pass a basic swim test. Swim test exemptions are available for participants who wear a Waynor-provided PFD whenever they are in the boat.
Athletic readiness: Athletes should be able to participate in sustained physical activity. Because rowing takes place on the water, athletes need to be able to stay engaged for the full session and row back with the group.
What athletes learn: Confidence, coordination, teamwork, listening skills, water awareness, basic rowing movement, and joy in sport.
Location: Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah.
Fall Practice Schedule: September 11 – October 30 on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5:00–6:00 p.m. Each athlete will attend two practices per week, one on Wednesday and one on Friday. Please note there will be no practice on Wednesday, October 21.
Registration Information: Registration opens on July 15. The total cost is $750 for the fall season.
Ready to help your athlete begin?
If your elementary-age athlete is curious about rowing, ready to try something new, or looking for a team experience that feels different in all the right ways, we’d love to help you take the next step.