Episode 1: Training for the Challenge — Building Your Crew for HotY

The Head of the Yarra isn’t just another regatta — it’s 8 kilometres of rhythm, teamwork, and endurance. In this episode, we break down how to prepare your crew for the challenge of Australia’s biggest head race.

Join me and Jennifer Pollock from Toowong Rowing Club, where we cover:

• Why HOTY demands a different training approach
• Crew selection and the importance of technical compatibility over raw power
• Key training sessions: steady-state, rate control, and long race pieces
• The coxswain’s role in building rhythm, trust, and confidence
• Balancing different experience levels within a crew

Whether you’re a rower, coach, or coxswain, this episode will give you practical strategies to get the most out of your HOY preparation.

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The post Head of the Yarra: Inside the Coxswain’s Mind! – Ep 1 appeared first on The Coxswains Journey.

Now the 2025 Victoria Schoolgirls Regatta season is in full swing join myself, Alan Crute (Rowing Regatta Form Guides and Chat) and our exciting “new recruit” Jo Hayman-McNally, rowing parent and previous HOSG winner, as we discuss the schoolgirls rowing season ahead and what to expect at the Head of the Schoolgirls Regatta in March.

Alan gives us his usual in depth insights into what we can expect to unfold in the months ahead.

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As coxswains, we’re often caught in a tug-of-war between the expectations and desires of our rowers, sometimes with limited insight into our role’s intricacies. It’s a common scenario: rowers offering advice without a full grasp of what it means to be a coxswain.

Well I thought it might be time to have a “Casual Convo” with a very experienced Coxswain to discuss this topic; Jennifer Pollock, from ⁠North Shore Rowing Club⁠ was all too happy to help out and I was fortunate enough to glean her take on this tricky question. Drawing from her wealth of experience, Jen described the expectations she holds for her crews, emphasising the importance of trust and mutual respect as her cornerstones. As Jen said, isn’t often lost for words, but this question did stump her a little, but we certainly got through it.

I’ve had many conversations with Jen about coxing and shared experiences and this episode delves into the differences of our experiences and highlights our “wants” and “needs” from our crews. Jen refers to a lot of these thoughts as what she “expects” from her crews.

The post Decoding the Coxswain/ Rower Relationship – Coxswains’ Crew Expectations! appeared first on The Coxswains Journey.

In this exciting “Casual Convo” we have a great chat with Mario Laing from Lake Eildon Rowing Club, the newest Rowing Club in the country! What an exciting journey he has been on as he embraced his amazing location and encompassed his love for rowing into that space.

Tune in to hear Mario’s story, his motivation, and how it all came about. We don’t often get the chance to talk to people who are as passionate about their rowing and sport as Mario.

As I say at the end of the episode, if only more people in the world were like Mario and made things happen! Great Job Mario.

The post The New Kids on the Block – Lake Eildon Rowing Club! appeared first on The Coxswains Journey.

Victoria boasts a rich tapestry of waterways, from the serene Yarra River, winding through Melbourne to the pristine lakes of Wendouree (occasionally. lol), Nagambie and Gippsland, amazing rivers like the Goulburn, and the Barwon, to name a few. These waters are not just picturesque; they are also a playground for water enthusiasts, including rowers and their trusty guides, coxswains. In this blog, we’ll delve into the essential rules of the river as seen through the eyes of a coxswain in Victoria, Australia.

Coxswains: The Voice of the Boat

Coxswains are the unsung heroes of rowing crews. They sit in the stern of the boat for an 8, and more often in the bow for other craft, steering and providing invaluable instructions to the rowers. In Victoria, they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the crew and other water users while navigating the waters efficiently.

1. Licensing and Training

Before taking on the role of a coxswain in Victoria, individuals must obtain a Coxswain’s Certificate, which is issued by Transport Safety Victoria. This certificate demonstrates their knowledge of the rules of the river, navigation, and safety procedures. Training programs are offered by various rowing clubs and institutions throughout the state. This course is simply done online via the Rowing Victoria website, and following small fee you are good to go.

2. Right of Way

Just like on the road, there are rules for who has the right of way on the water. In general, powered vessels must give way to non-powered vessels such as rowing boats. However, it’s essential for coxswains to be aware of other craft and always exercise caution. Large commercial vessels, like ferries, also have specific rights of way. Always remember to use common sense at all times though, whilst the rules may stand sometimes others will not abide and you must take safety for your crew as the number one focus.

3. Speed Limits

Different waterways in Victoria may have varying speed limits, and it’s crucial for coxswains to be aware of these regulations. Excessive speed can lead to dangerous situations, especially in crowded areas. Coxswains should always prioritize the safety of their crew and other water users by adhering to speed limits.

4. Keep to the Right

In Victoria, vessels must keep to the right side of a waterway when moving in both directions. This rule helps prevent collisions and ensures a smooth flow of traffic, much like driving on the road. Coxswains should be vigilant in maintaining this practice. Its worth noting this does not mean you can only row on the right hand side of the river, it means that when passing on oncoming vessel you must pass to the right.

5. Navigation Lights

When rowing in low light conditions or at night, coxswains must ensure their boat displays the appropriate navigation lights. These lights make the boat visible to other water users and help prevent accidents. There needs to be 2 lights, one on the bow (constant light) and a flashing light on the stern. See this link for more information for rowing in poor light conditions.

6. No Wake Zones

Many waterways in Victoria have designated “no wake zones” to protect the environment and minimize disturbance to other boats and the shoreline. Coxswains must be aware of these areas and operate at reduced speeds to avoid creating excessive wakes. This is more of an issue for speed boats of course, however you still need to be aware of these rules and possibly remind your coach.

7. Obeying Bridge Signals

Victoria’s waterways feature numerous bridges, some of which open to allow taller vessels to pass through. Coxswains must obey any signals or instructions provided by bridge operators and be prepared to stop or alter their course accordingly.

8. Environmental Stewardship

Coxswains should also be environmentally conscious and avoid disturbing wildlife, vegetation, and sensitive habitats. It’s vital to leave no trace and minimize the impact of rowing activities on the local ecosystem.

In conclusion

Coxswains play a pivotal role in ensuring safe and responsible navigation of Victoria’s waterways. Their knowledge of the rules of the river, combined with their leadership skills, guides rowing crews to success while promoting safety and environmental awareness. By adhering to these rules and fostering a culture of respect for the water, coxswains help preserve the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Victoria’s lakes and rivers offer. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a novice, remember that a coxswain’s voice is not just a source of motivation but also a guardian of safety on the water.

The post The Art of the Coxswain – Some of the Basics appeared first on The Coxswains Journey.

In this episode, we cover the aspects that are required from a coxswain during training, from arriving at training, getting on the water, on water training and what we do after we come off the water.

It’s in training we build the “bones” or structure of how the race will unfold, be serious about your training, be organised and stay focussed. Yes there is time for some fun too, but remember the training sessions is where the foundations are laid.

Key Takeaways:

• Master the pre-water routine: Learn why being punctual and prepared can make or break your crew’s training session
• Structure your training effectively with the 25-50-25 principle for optimal performance
• Discover how to read boat speed like a pro while accounting for environmental factors
• Get expert insights on providing technical feedback that actually works
• Learn the art of crew communication and why terminology matters

Side Note:

Here is a few key points on providing effective feedback as a coxswain:

1. Limit feedback to a maximum of 3 key points per session avoids giving too much continuous feedback, as the brain can only absorb so much information at once.
2. Avoid analysing mistakes from the last 200 meters of a race. This is often not constructive, as rowers are often fatigued at that point and defaulting to their instincts.
3. Focus on consistent issues with specific rowers, such as late catches or skying the blade, rather than general mistakes. This allows you to provide more targeted and helpful feedback.
4. Explain your terminology to new crew members and encourage them to ask questions if they don’t understand. This ensures everyone is on the same page.

The key is to be selective and strategic with your feedback, focusing on a few key areas for improvement rather than overwhelming the crew with constant critiques. Providing clear communication and creating an environment where questions are welcomed will also help make your feedback more effective.

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Welcome to The Coxswain’s Journey, the podcast that dives deep into the world of rowing coxswains. In this introductory episode, we’ll give you a brief overview of what you can expect from the role of the coxswain in the boat, and why it’s such an important position for any successful crew. We’ll also explore some of the key skills and qualities that make a great coxswain, such as communication, leadership, and strategic thinking.

Throughout the series, we’ll be featuring tips, tricks and interviews with many people in and around sport in general, who will share their insights and experiences. We’ll also discuss some of the challenges and obstacles that coxswains may face, and offer tips and advice on how to overcome them to help you get the most from your athletes. 

So whether you’re a coxswain looking to sharpen your skills, a rower curious about the role of the coxswain, or simply a fan of the sport of rowing, this podcast is for you. Join us in The Coxswain’s Journey for engaging discussions and valuable insights into the world of rowing coxswain.

Key episode highlights:

• Why resilience is essential for handling criticism and expectations
• The truth about mental toughness in coxing
• Understanding different coxing styles and crew dynamics
• The multifaceted role: from safety officer to psychologist
• Real-world examples from recent regattas

Side note:

To develop resilience and mental toughness as a coxswain, here are some suggestions:

1. Embrace the fact that criticism will come from various sources. Understand that it’s part of the job and doesn’t reflect on your worth as a coxswain. Avoid taking it personally.
2. Practice self-awareness and self-regulation. Recognize when you’re feeling frustrated or discouraged, and have strategies to manage those emotions, such as taking deep breaths or reframing the situation.
3. Cultivate a growth mindset. View feedback, even negative feedback, as an opportunity to learn and improve rather than a personal attack. Actively seek out constructive criticism.
4. Build a support network. Surround yourself with people who can provide encouragement and perspective when you’re facing challenges. Lean on your crew, coaches, and other experienced coxswains.
5. Visualise success. Imagine yourself handling difficult situations with poise and confidence. Mentally rehearse how you will respond to criticism in a productive way.
6. Celebrate small wins. Acknowledge your progress and improvements, even if they seem minor. Recognize that developing resilience and mental toughness is an ongoing process.

The key is to approach criticism and feedback with a resilient and mentally tough mindset, focusing on growth and continuous improvement rather than letting it derail you. Consistent practice and a supportive environment can help coxswains develop these essential skills.

The post An introduction to the “9th seat” – the coxswain appeared first on The Coxswains Journey.

During the Middle Ages, rowing continued to be used for military purposes, with rowing vessels known as galleys used for both transport and warfare. It was during this period that rowing began to evolve as a sport in its own right, with rowing races becoming popular among sailors and fishermen in coastal communities.

By the 19th century, rowing had become a popular leisure activity, particularly among the upper classes. The first rowing club was founded in England in 1818, and the sport quickly spread to other parts of Europe and North America. The first intercollegiate rowing race in the United States took place in 1852 between Harvard and Yale, and the sport soon became a staple of American college athletics.

In the early 20th century, rowing became an Olympic sport, with the first rowing competition held at the 1900 Paris Games. Since then, rowing has been a regular feature of the Olympics, with the sport expanding to include both men’s and women’s events in a variety of boat classes.

Today, rowing is a popular sport around the world, with millions of people participating in the sport at the recreational and competitive levels. From ancient Egypt to modern-day Olympic competitions, the history of rowing is a rich and fascinating one that reflects the enduring appeal of this timeless sport.

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First and foremost, the coxswain is responsible for steering the boat. This might seem like a straightforward task, but it requires a high level of skill and precision. The coxswain must keep the boat on course, taking into account wind, currents, and other factors that might affect its direction. They also need to be able to make quick adjustments to the steering to avoid other boats, bridges, or other obstacles that might be in the way.

In addition to steering, the coxswain is also responsible for the overall strategy of the boat. They need to be able to read the race and make tactical decisions that will give their team the best chance of success. This might include choosing the best line to take, deciding when to make a push, and communicating with the rowers about what they need to do to improve their performance.

Communication is another key aspect of a coxswain’s role. They need to be able to motivate the rowers, provide feedback on their technique, and keep them focused on the task at hand. They might also need to give instructions on the rating, rhythm, or power of the strokes, depending on the coach’s plan.

Finally, the coxswain is responsible for the safety of the boat and its crew. They need to ensure that all equipment is in good working order, and that everyone is wearing the appropriate safety gear. In case of an emergency, they need to know what to do to keep everyone safe and get help if needed.

In summary, the coxswain is much more than just a passenger in the boat. They are the leader, strategist, and communicator, who steers the boat to victory and keeps everyone safe along the way. Without their skills and expertise, a rowing crew would not be complete.

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