Middle School Rowing
Middle school is the perfect time to find your sport, and rowing is one most kids have never tried. At KCRC, middle schoolers learn to row on Kent Lake at Kensington Metropark with patient coaches who keep it fun, safe, and focused on the basics. There are no tryouts and no experience needed, just a chance to get outside, make new friends, and discover what it feels like to move a boat together.
Why start in middle school?
A head start for high school. Rowers who learn the basics now arrive in high school ready to race.
Fun first. Practices are about learning skills, building confidence, and enjoying time on the water. The pressure of winning comes later.
A team where everyone belongs. Every rower has a seat, and every seat matters, so no one sits on the bench.
Outside and off screens. Practice happens on the lake, with sunrises, herons, and fresh air.
Confidence that carries over. Kids learn to listen, work as a team, and do hard things, and those habits follow them into the classroom.
What practice looks like
Rowers begin on shore and on the rowing machines, learning safe technique and how to handle the equipment. Then they move into boats with coaches on the water beside them. As their skills grow, they progress from learning boats to racing, and many go on to compete at local regattas.
Grades: [6–8]
Season: [Fall / Spring / Summer camp dates]
Practices: [Days and times]
Location: Kensington Metropark, Milford
Cost: [Fee and what's included]
Requirements: [Swim requirement], USRowing membership, and a signed waiver
For parents
You don't need to know anything about rowing for your child to love it. Our coaches handle the teaching, safety, and equipment. All your rower needs is athletic clothes, a water bottle, and a willingness to try something new. Many families start with summer camp, the easiest way to see if rowing is a good fit.