Yale

 

Overview
The Yale Community Rowing Program (YCR) officially began in 1999 with the idea that opportunities in the sport of rowing could be made available to young people throughout the Derby and surrounding community. The pilot program began with twelve participants and a staff of three which then grew to become one of the largest programs of its kind in the nation, unique in its scope and inclusiveness. In 2020, Covid caused the program to come to a halt, like most in person programs at the time. In 2024, we brought back YCR with a joint partnership with the Canal Dock Boathouse, Inc.  This year, we will bring YCR back to Gilder Boathouse and invite 40 local youth to participate in the free rowing program.

Mission
YCR's mission is to create a comfortable learning environment where youth can increase self-esteem and enjoy a unique team bond through their participation in the sport of rowing. While out on the water self-gratification comes from the crew's success and this is achieved by each rower working in time and unison whether in a large training barge or sleek racing shell.

Current Programming
The Middle School Learn to Row program teaches the rudimentary skills of rowing during a one-week summer session led by experienced coaches, youth will not only develop their rowing skills but also foster teamwork and discipline in a supportive environment. Participants make use of our two training barges - these pontoon-style boats enable novice rowers to develop their newly acquired skills while building teamwork and self-confidence. Youth will learn the basic fundamentals of rowing, engage in calisthenics to enhance their fitness, and gain essential knowledge about equipment safety. Apart from on the water instruction there are scheduled indoor rowing sessions and land training exercises as they embark on a journey of discovery and fun at Gilder Boathouse.    

YCR provides transportation to and from the New Haven and Derby area to the Yale Payne Whitney Gym on Mondays and the Gilder Boathouse on the remaining days.  

Contact Us:
Program Director: Tanya Colon
Email: tanya.colon@yale.edu
Phone: (203) 848-5599