Inspire a generation!

Wow!

What a week we had for Olympic rowing, 9 medals - what a haul! Here are some good sites to check out to catch up on the results: http://www.london2012.com/rowing/ or http://www.britishrowing.org/gb-rowing-team

I was lucky enough to go to Dorney on the Friday and Saturday, the atmosphere was electric!

This is a great time to recruit new members in to your rowing clubs, 'strike while the iron is hot' so to speak and sign people up!

Here are some top tips for clubs:

1.    Make sure your information is up to date

Don’t miss out on people interested in joining your club just because they can’t get hold of you.  Double check that the contact details you publicise are up-to-date and there is someone to answer the enquiries.  Are your club details on the British Rowing Club-finder up-to-date?  Right now we’re seeing thousands of people using this everyday so it’s a great way to promote your club.  If you need to update Club-finder please email sarah.leys@britishrowing.org

2.    Use taster sessions

If you’re flooded with demand then use taster sessions as a way to filter those participants who just want to try rowing once from those who might complete a whole learn to row course and join the club.  A simple taster session can give people the chance to try rowing and see if it’s for them.

3.    Make it easy for everyone

Making it clear what the dates of a course are and what the commitment will be makes it easier for people – some may decide they’d rather help our as volunteers.  Shorter courses (up to six weeks) are probably best as a first introduction to rowing.  If you are running any taster sessions fix some dates now so that you can tell people the dates and sign them up immediately.

4.    Keep records

Even if you can’t cater for everyone straight away (or someone can’t make the dates you have        organised), keep records of applicants details and develop a waiting list.  Keep in touch with them from time to time and let them know when the next opportunities to try rowing will be.

5.    Shout if you need help

Please keep the team at British Rowing up-to-date with how things are going at your club.  Your first port of call should be your Regional Team Leader. This is me! Rhiannon.halliday@britishrowing.org 07818576145. We will try and support you in every way we can and help you through these exciting times for the sport.