Fewer and fewer young men are getting involved with the sport in college now. Gone are the days of having 100 freshmen come to the 1st crew meeting. 2008 NERCs had only four novice eights race in a final only. That's an event that has been traditionally 3 heats deep. Rowing is increasingly being seen in the public eye as a "women's sport" b/c of the exposure offered by the NCAA. Last year I had a freshmen parent say to me, "I'm thrilled my son is rowing, but I honestly thought rowing was a women's sport in college."
I love the traditions too, but I would rather see the sport grow with the men being NCAA than die for the sake of tradition.
I thought the IRA Regatta was switching to a V8, 2v8, F8, and O4 this year. I also thought that NCAA bylaw 10.3.1.1 was an exception that stated the NCAA prohibition on gambling did not apply to "traditional wagers" i.e. Betting Shirts.
It's a shame to see this poll read as it does. Chance are these are probably voters who don't value or have any connection to the tradition of this sport. It will be a sad day when Men's Collegiate Rowing is reduced to a 1V, 2V, and Varsity 4. Even if you argue it's only the National Championship setup, undeniably coaches will have to shift their focus and pre-NCAA championship races will morph to fit the new mold.
10/01/2008 5:07:31 AM
I love the traditions too, but I would rather see the sport grow with the men being NCAA than die for the sake of tradition.
09/28/2008 4:34:48 AM
09/26/2008 6:50:44 PM