(Madison, WI): Since 1975, the Mendota Rowing Club, a 501(c)(3) non profit organization, has been housed in the historic Bernard-Hoover Boathouse located at James Madison Park in Madison, WI. The boat house is the oldest standing boathouse on beautiful Lake Mendota, just blocks from capitol square.
Mendota Rowing Club Mission
The mission of Mendota Rowing Club (MRC) is to make the sport of rowing accessible to all of Madison and its surrounding communities. The Club is invested in partnering with local organizations, communities, schools and families. MRC invites youth and adults to join in the sport of rowing which offers an inclusive environment — that actively cultivates good humans with sweat, strength and smiles!
MRC offers Learn-to-Row opportunities for youth (grades 6 -12) and adults throughout the summer. After completing Learn-to-Row, students can join novice practices and later advance to one of MRC’s competitive teams or continue as a recreational rower. With a full complement of equipment at hand, our team of coaches are able foster skills development with new rowers in boats ranging from eight-person sweep boats (one oar per rower) to single sculling boats (two oars).
STEM to Stern
MRC also is home to a Madison chapter of Stem to Stern. The STEM to Stern program uses rowing to bring people together across racial and socioeconomic boundaries. By creating diverse rowing teams, they foster relationships that change lives and improve society. STEM to Stern removes the main barriers that currently keep many people from accessing rowing teams. By addressing transportation, swimming and academics, everyone has the opportunity to participate and succeed on and off the water.
Current Learn-to-Row Opportunities
Rowing is a low-impact, full-body sport which – notably – facilitates gains realized through both anaerobic and aerobic exercise, that is: muscle mass and strength as well as endurance. Rowing is a sport that can span the lifetime!
Physical Benefits
- Focus
- Proprioception (body awareness)
- Coordination
- Strength
- Flexibility
- Endurance
- Fresh air
- Sunshine
Social Benefits
- Teamwork and community development
- Leadership experiences
- Communication skills
- High coach: student ratio (2:8)
- Lifelong friendships
ALL are welcome – head to the MRC website to get started!
