South Bend Community Rowing offers coached programs for all skill levels, whether you are completely new to rowing or have rowed competitively for years. Many of our members started in our very own Learn-to-Row program and have gone on to win medals in Masters regattas. Others stay on to hone their skills and simply want to enjoy summer evenings on the water together.
Our programs are open to those aged 18 and over, which includes a Coxswain Development program.
If you are interested in knowing more about the sport we love, please sign up for our mailing list so you don’t miss an opportunity to see what we’re all about.
Non-Member Programs
Learn-to-Row
Our popular Learn-to-Row program is ideal for those who have never been exposed to rowing before. This six-session program starts with the basics on land and moves quickly to the water. All sessions are led by the superb coaching staff from the University of Notre Dame.
Participants who successfully complete Learn-to-Row are invited to join the SBCR Novice Rowing program.
Cost for 2025 is $250.
Schedule: The Learn-to-Row program begins in June and runs for three consecutive weeks, with two evening sessions per week. Participants are expected to attend all available sessions. Check our calendar for exact dates and times. Click here to be notified when registration opens.
Corporate Rowing
In a 4-hour session, learn basic rowing technique on an erg (rowing machine) and get on the water with Masters rowers for a team building rowing experience. For further information and pricing, email crew@sbcrowing.org.
Visiting Rowers
Experienced rowers visiting South Bend are welcome to join us depending on seat availability. Visiting rowers must provide proof of membership in U.S. Rowing. Please contact us via crew@sbcrowing.org.
Member Programs
Masters Rowing
Rowing is a physically demanding sport that requires a demonstrated level of cardio conditioning, strength, and coordination. Our Masters Rowing program is for rowers 18 years or older with at least one year of rowing experience.
We offer both recreational and competitive rowing opportunities.
The following is required of all rowing in the Masters program:
- Active membership in US Rowing including the signing of their online waiver. Join at US Rowing and select South Bend Community Rowing as your club.
- Verify review of South Bend Community Rowing 2025 Safety Manual and Season Guidelines. Copies of both are available in iCrew.
- Complete Safe Sport Training Course (required by US Rowing).
Schedule: The Masters Rowing program for 2025 will begin at the end of April, weather permitting. Rows will be held on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and Friday and Saturday mornings.
Cost for 2025 is $450.00.
If you are new to the South Bend Community Rowing Master’s program or wish to update information please fill out the registration form below or email crew@sbcrowing.org.
Novice Rowing
The Novice Rowing program is for beginning rowers who have completed our Learn-to-Row program. Participants receive instruction from qualified coaches during on-the-water sessions. Novice sessions focus heavily on technical skill development and team building.
Cost for 2025 is $200. Participants must also join U.S. Rowing.
Schedule: Tuesday and Thursday evenings. July through September.
Coxswain Development
The coxswain does not row, but serves as the captain of the crew, steering the boat and overseeing the rhythm of the rowers. As the coxswain, you’ll develop and exercise leadership skills, while enjoying the sport of rowing and the beauty of the river. Coxswains can be men or women. Learn more in this short video, The rowing coxswain – explained.
Our two-part coxswain development program is designed to help you explore this important rowing role.
Cost: There is no charge for this program. If you choose to continue with one of our other programs, you will then pay the fee for that program.
For information contact Mary Alice Reid via email at mamareid1@gmail.com.
Registration: Please complete our Coxswain Development Registration
South Bend Community Rowing 