What Is A Coxswain?

A COXSWAIN IS unique in the boat because they are the only person in the boat:
- without an oar.
- facing the bow (facing forward)
- using a microphone.
A COXSWAIN IS responsible for:
- the safety of the crew and shell.
- steering the boat.
- giving directions to the rowers.
A COXSWAIN IS NOT deadweight in the boat IF they are willing to:
- watch, listen, and learn from more experienced coxswains.
- learn what motivates their crew(s).
- earn their teams respect by working “with” them.
- learn how to handle the boat well in order to make quick maneuvers when necessary.
- be aware, alert, observant, and ready to make quick decisions.
- remain calm, focused, and in control.
- remember there are better ways to motivate a crew than swearing at them.
MOST IMPORTANTLY OF ALL…
A coxswain should be light enough that no rower will suffer back injuries when the coxswain is thrown into the water after a big win!